Natural Grocers Highlights Continued Focus On ESG Issues
With a focus on continued support for practices that support environmental sustainability, human health, community well-being, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage has unveiled its third annual Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report.
"Natural Grocers has a legacy of being a values-driven company. For over 68 years, we have demonstrated our commitment to practices that support a more sustainable and affordable food system," said Kemper Isely, executive co-president of Natural Grocers. "Our Five Founding Principles are naturally aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance disciplines.”
Isely said the report also shows the retailer’s “rigorous product standards” and its continued commitment to practices and products that support environmental and human health.
“We strive to work with vendors who nurture the land and the welfare of animals,” he said. “We believe this vigilance also contributes to a healthier planet, thriving communities and a flourishing economy."
Highlights of the report include:
- Invested more than $6 million to provide free nutrition education to our customers, crew, and communities.
- Believes it is the first national retailer to offer private-label eggs from regenerative certified farms. The Regeneratively Grown certification uses a scientifically rigorous process to measure soil health, the effectiveness of regenerative farm practices, and their impact over time.
- In support of organic farming practices and transparency, extended the certified organic requirement to its entire coffee category.
- Installed a CO2 refrigeration system in a second store, which saves energy and provides enhanced environmental protection compared to conventional refrigerant technologies.
Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers believes that one of its greatest opportunities to positively impact environmental sustainability and human health is through prioritizing products sourced from vendors that embrace regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices.