BOISE, Idaho —Albertsons Cos. today announced that it is seeking applications from diverse entrepreneurs and businesses which can offer products that appeal to the varied preferences of the retailer’s customer base.
Albertsons has opened the application process to small and mid-size businesses that qualify as “diverse-owned suppliers,” defined as those at least 51% owned, controlled and operated by women, Blacks, indigenous and other people of color, LGBTQ+, veterans or people with disabilities.
The application process is part of the company’s supplier diversity program, which is committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, Albertsons said.
“At Albertsons Cos., we are committed to providing opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs and businesses to successfully grow their brands and sell their products on our store shelves,” said Monique Lanaux, group vice president and chief diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging officer at Albertsons. “Through our supplier diversity program, we are building an inclusive culture in our stores that values diversity and reflects the many.
The program works closely with diverse business owners to overcome challenges and various barriers including access to working capital, the company said. Through Albertsons Cos. continued partnership with C2FO, diverse-owned brands can receive early payment terms on approved invoices, unlocking fast and flexible access to low-cost capital.
Last year, nearly 500 businesses submitted applications for the Albertsons’ supplier diversity program, and more than 60 diverse-owned brands were selected to meet with the retailer’s merchandising team. As a result, six diverse-owned brands — Blue Elephant, Catalina Crunch, Mr. Kooks, Partake Foods, Radius, and Watcheree’s — were added to the more than 200 certified diverse suppliers already selling their products through the company’s supermarket banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco and Shaw’s.
Diverse business owners interested in having their products considered for sale through one or more Albertsons banners should submit their application online here by Feb. 2. Diverse suppliers who are selected to meet with the Albertsons Cos. team will be notified by Feb. 16 and appointments will be scheduled for early April.
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