Albertsons Companies announced that applications are now open for diverse-owned businesses to become part of the Supplier Diversity Program.
According to the supermarket chain, their Supplier Diversity Program is designed to discover, support, and allow diverse-owned suppliers to expand their business with Albertsons Cos. and its stores.
Albertsons said this program is part of its ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
“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, GVP 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,” Lanaux added.
The application process is open now to diverse-owned suppliers, which include small and mid-size businesses that are at least 51 percent 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 Cos.’ diverse customer base.
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The Albertsons Cos. Supplier Diversity Program also works closely with diverse business owners to overcome challenges and various barriers, including access to operating capital.
For many small and medium-sized businesses, obtaining working capital is critical to growing their operations. 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 Supplier Diversity Program, and more than 60 diverse-owned brands were selected to meet with the Albertsons Cos. 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 Cos. stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco and Shaw’s.
Diverse business owners interested in having their products considered to sell in one or more Albertsons Cos. stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, ACME, and Shaw’s, should submit their application online by Feb. 2.
To fill out the application, go to https://www.rangeme.com/supplierdiversityalbertsons
Diverse suppliers selected to meet with the Albertsons Cos. team will be notified by Feb. 16, and appointments will be scheduled for early April.