Albertsons opens call for diverse-owned brands for annual supplier diversity program
Albertsons is kicking off its annual application process for diverse-owned suppliers. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, Albertsons has kicked off its Supplier Diversity Program to discover, support and give diverse-owned suppliers the opportunity to expand their business with the retailer's stores.
“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. “Through our Supplier Diversity Program, we are building an inclusive culture in our stores that values diversity and reflects the many communities where we live and serve.”
The application process is open now to diverse-owned suppliers, which include small and mid-size businesses that are at least 5% owned, controlled and operated by women, Black, indigenous and people of color, LGBTQ+, veterans or people with disabilities who can offer products that appeal to the varied preferences of Albertsons’ diverse customer base.
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The program also works closely with diverse business owners to overcome challenges and various barriers including access to working capital. For many small and medium-sized businesses, obtaining working capital is critical to growing their operations. Through Albertsons’ 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 Supplier Diversity Program and more than 60 diverse-owned brands were selected to meet with Albertsons’ merchandising team. As a result, six diverse-owned brands, Blue Elephant, Catalina Crunch, Mr. Kooks, Partake Foods, Radius and Watcharee’s, were added to the more than 200 certified diverse suppliers already selling their products nationwide at Albertsons’ stores, including Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco and Shaw’s.
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Diverse business owners interested in having their products considered to sell in one or more Albertsons’ stores should submit their application online here by Feb. 2. Diverse suppliers who are selected to meet with the Albertsons’ team will be notified by Feb. 16 and appointments will be scheduled for early April.