Kroger has introduced a Small Business Resource Guide, developed to help brands and producers establish and grow retail partnerships. The free downloadable resource shares best practices for product development, pricing, supply chain, promotion, research and preparation, outreach, and partnership development. This is part of the retailer’s Framework For Action: Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion plan.
"Through Kroger's supplier inclusion program, we support, mentor, promote, and grow diverse-owned enterprises across our thriving operation. We currently work with more than 1,600 diverse suppliers, ranging from food and beverage to health and beauty and product distributors to service providers," said Angel Colón, Kroger's senior director of corporate and supplier diversity, in a statement. "As a member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, we continue to partner with diverse businesses in innovative ways, including by investing in incubators and accelerators, expanding relationships with existing partners, hosting and participating in supplier summits, and through partnerships with leading certifying agencies.
In addition, later this month, Kroger will launch an open call inviting local and regional fresh food producers to participate in its search for new and innovative suppliers. Kroger will share more information about this event soon, according to a statement.
Last year, Kroger introduced 107 new diverse suppliers, a 91 percent increase from 2019. Of these suppliers, five played a leading role in supplying Kroger personal protective equipment during the peak of the COVID-19 public health crisis.
Related: Kroger Tests Drone Delivery; Kroger Expands Recycling Program.
Image: The Kroger Co.