Haggen, the Northwest’s largest independent grocer, has signed a five-year partnership with Charlie’s Produce, a full-service produce company based in Seattle, Wash. The partnership extends an existing 20-year relationship that has helped Haggen strengthen its dedication to providing customers the freshest produce in the region.
The partnership comes following Haggen’s successful launch of its Northwest Fresh initiative built upon the brand pillars of community, homemade and delight. Based in the Northwest, both companies share the same goal to support local farmers in the community. This commitment has resulted in Haggen’s ability to meet the needs of customers as Northwest Fresh expands throughout its 28-store network.
“We are thrilled to partner with Charlie’s Produce and enhance our 20-year relationship,” said C.J. Gabriel Jr., president and CEO of Haggen. “Charlie’s commitment to working with as many local farmers as possible makes this partnership a great fit for us as we continue to grow our Northwest Fresh brand.”
While Haggen and Charlie’s Produce have been working together for two decades, this will be their first official business partnership since 2002. Following a surge in growth last year, both companies felt timing was right to officially unite once again, making Haggen the largest locally-based partnership for Charlie’s Produce.
“We feel a strong connection to Haggen and their mission for all things fresh in Northwest,” said Charlie Billow, CEO of Charlie’s Produce. “We are equally invested and involved in the success of our respective businesses and, when good companies with similar missions stick together, it’s a win-win for customers.”
This deal includes a majority exclusive that gives Charlie’s Produce the opportunity to provide Haggen all their produce needs. Both Haggen Northwest Fresh and TOP Foods stores will receive deliveries seven days a week to ensure the freshest produce is always available to Haggen shoppers.
