Albertsons Cos. has opened its annual application process for diverse-owned suppliers, as of Jan. 22.
The Albertsons Cos. Supplier Diversity Program is designed to discover, support and give diverse-owned suppliers the opportunity to expand their business with Albertsons and its banner stores.
Qualifying suppliers include small and mid-size businesses that are at least 51% 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’ customer base, according to the company.
“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,” Monique Lanaux, group vice president and chief diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging officer, said in a media release. “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.”
Qualifying suppliers interested in having their products considered can submit their application online here by Feb. 2. Suppliers who are selected to meet with the Albertsons team will be notified by Feb. 16, and appointments will be scheduled for early April.
The Supplier Diversity Program also works closely with diverse business owners to overcome challenges and various barriers including access to working capital. Through Albertsons Cos. continued partnership with C2FO, diverse-owned brands can receive early payment terms on approved invoices.
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’ merchandising team. As a result, six 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 stores including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco and Shaw’s.