Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage Inc. has released its environmental, social and governance (ESG) report for fiscal year 2023.
In its third annual ESG report, the specialty retailer emphasizes its support for practices that promote environmental sustainability, human health and community well-being, including new product standards.
Founded in 1955, the retailer said it believes that one way to positively impact environmental sustainability and human health is through prioritizing products sourced from vendors that embrace regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices.
Highlights from the 2023 report
In fiscal year 2023, Natural Grocers:
- Invested more than $6 million to provide free nutrition education to customers, employees and communities.
- Believes it is the first national retailer to offer private-label eggs from regenerative certified farms. The certification uses a process to measure soil health, the effectiveness of regenerative farm practices and their impact over time.
- In support of organic farming practices and transparency, extended the certified organic requirement to its coffee category.
- Installed a CO2 refrigeration system in a second store, which saves energy and provides enhanced environmental protection compared to conventional refrigerant technologies.
“Natural Grocers has a legacy of being a values-driven company. For over 68 years, we have demonstrated our commitment to practices that support a more sustainable and affordable food system,” said Kemper Isely, executive co-president of Natural Grocers.
“Our Five Founding Principles are naturally aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance disciplines. This year’s ESG Report showcases our rigorous product standards and our continued commitment to practices and products that support environmental and human health.
“We strive to work with vendors who nurture the land and the welfare of animals. We believe this vigilance also contributes to a healthier planet, thriving communities and a flourishing economy.”
About Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage
Based in Lakewood, Colorado, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage is a specialty retailer of natural and organic groceries, body care products and dietary supplements that has 168 stores in 21 states.
The products it sells must meet quality guidelines and may not contain artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or sweeteners, or partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils.
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