Forager, a company that connects local farmers with grocers to bring consumers healthy, locally sourced food, is partnering with Bashas' grocery stores across Arizona. The pilot program will increase Bashas’ network of vendors and enable “hyperlocal” sourcing across its brands.
“Forager can help us scale a large local program across our entire network of stores after our pilot launch and we are excited about the budding partnership and the positive impact that we can make in our local communities," said Steve Mayer, senior vice president of merchandising, marketing and procurement at Bashas' in a statement.
According to a recent Forager survey, 93 percent of Americans think grocers have an important role to play in supporting local farmers and food producers.
“We are excited to partner with Bashas’ to help bring consumers closer to the wonderful and growing diversity of local growers and makers in Arizona,” said Joe Blunda, CEO of Forager, in a statement. “We continue to close the gap between grocers and suppliers to build direct relationships, and help our partners like Bashas’ build a lasting competitive advantage that will drive foot traffic into stores to get these products as society continues to reopen in the coming months.”
Related: Pandemic Places Increased Emphasis on Local Sourcing; Forager, Roche Bros. Team Up to Procure Local Food.