Every year, Progressive Grocer highlights 10 grocery retailers in the U.S. on their list of Most Sustainable Grocers. The selected retailers are those companies that stand out for the sheer breadth, depth and innovation of their sustainability measures throughout the year.
As the definition of sustainability continues to evolve beyond environmentally friendly practices, a growing number of grocery retailers are embracing a broader, more holistic approach – one that aligns with the charter of the UCLA Sustainability Committee. This definition emphasizes “the integration of environmental health, social equity and economic vitality in order to create thriving, healthy, diverse and resilient communities for this generation and generations to come.”
In this spirit, companies recognized for their sustainability initiatives are not only taking steps to protect the planet, but are also investing in the health and well-being of their associates and the communities they serve. Their work demonstrates a systems-based understanding of sustainability – acknowledging the interconnected nature of environmental, social, and economic issues. Grocery retailers, with their central role in the food ecosystem and deep community ties, are uniquely positioned to lead on sustainability.
This momentum is further fueled by growing consumer demand. According to a 2024 survey from Mintel: Nearly two in five engaged consumers in the beauty, personal care, household, and food and drink categories believe companies can do more than governments to drive global change. Over half of surveyed beauty, personal care, and household shoppers regularly check labels for recyclability and other environmental claims. More than one-third of food and drink consumers seek out environmental initiative details on product packaging.
As expectations continue to rise, grocery companies are being called upon to “walk the talk” across all aspects of sustainability – from reducing their carbon footprint to enhancing workplace equity and supporting resilient local economies.
For those just beginning their journey or seeking to refine their approach, a list of exemplary grocery retailers offers valuable inspiration. These organizations serve as role models for integrating sustainability into every facet of their operations, reinforcing the powerful role grocers can play in creating a more sustainable future for all.
Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, the largest family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer in the U.S., continues to integrate its Five Founding Principles – Nutrition Education, Quality, Always Affordable Pricing, Community, and Crew – into every aspect of its business. In fiscal year 2024, the company saw record financial performance, which it attributes to its long-standing commitment to building a sustainable and accessible food system.
The company’s 2024 Sustainability Report offers a detailed look into the people, partnerships, and projects that define its mission. Stories from vendors and farmers illustrate Natural Grocers’ dedication to human health, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. A major part of that effort includes strict product standards, which bar artificial flavors, preservatives, sweeteners, synthetic colors, and hydrogenated oils across all store categories.
Natural Grocers also strengthened its partnership with the Rodale Institute to promote regenerative organic farming. In September, during Organic Month, the company raised over $80,000 for Rodale’s Farmer Training and Veteran Farmer Training Programs, which help build the future of organic agriculture.
The company continued its long-standing focus on community wellness by investing more than $7 million in free nutrition education. Its nutritional health coaches provided these services to customers, store staff (known as the good4u Crew), and local communities.
Sustainability efforts extended to store operations as well. Natural Grocers installed a CO₂ refrigeration system in a third store – an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. The company also donated more than $4 million in food and wellness products to local food banks, reinforcing its role as a community partner.
Finally, the grocer expanded its Meet Your Farmer film series, a collection of short documentaries that bring customers closer to the farmers and ranchers responsible for some of the store’s most beloved products. It’s another way the company is creating transparency in the supply chain and celebrating the individuals driving sustainable agriculture forward.
Through these efforts, Natural Grocers continues to show how a values-driven business can thrive while advancing environmental and social responsibility.
Among other retailers on the list were Amazon/Whole Foods Market, New Seasons Market, The Raley’s Companies and Wegman’s. The full list can be found on ProgressiveGrocer.com.
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