AUSTIN, TX - Whole Foods Market has once again revealed the winners of its annual Supplier Awards, this time honoring industry members including Driscoll’s, Oppy, and more. But out of thousands of Whole Foods Market suppliers nationwide, only two came out as the retailer’s Supplier of the Year—Rainier Fruit Company, for a strong partnership and investment in state-of-the-art growing techniques and packing facilities; and Califia Farms, for its innovation in plant based, dairy alternatives and environmental stewardship.
“Our Supplier Award winners set the gold standard for the industry, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements,” shared Don Clark, Whole Foods Market’s Global Vice President of Procurement for Non Perishables upon the announcement. “Each one of our supplier partners advances the character and flavor of our stores, whether they’re committed to sustainable farming methods or simply creating the best-tasting products.”
In addition to Rainier Fruit Company and Califia Farms, Whole Foods recognized its top supplier partners in several other categories that highlight areas of achievement, including product innovation, environmental stewardship, ethical sourcing, and excellence in quality standards and assurance.
According to the retailer’s press release, these include:
Outstanding Quality Assurance
Driscoll’s, for commitment to quality in each step of berry production and distribution, from the nursery to its network of independent growers, to its support of Whole Foods Market stores and shoppers.
Distinguished Service
Oppy, for its partnership in developing key programs with Whole Foods Market and for its commitment to customer service, transparency, and business planning that supports Whole Foods Market store produce companywide.
Excellence in Standards
Wholesum Harvest, for its commitment to organics, Fair Trade, sustainable, and Responsibly Grown produce.
Commodity Ingredients
Hampton Farms, for its partnership in supplying nuts and peanuts for Whole Foods Market’s in-store bulk nut butter program, and its support of small family farmers through its grower program.
To see the all the winners of each of Whole Foods’ categories, please click here, and congrats to all our friends at Rainier Fruit Company and Califia Farms!
