Arizona-based broker, shipper wholesaler Ciruli Bros. is among the recipients of Whole Foods Market's Supplier All-Star Awards, which recognize 15 brands that raise the bar for quality, innovation, value and social responsibility and are aligned with the natural and organic retailer’s core values.
This year’s recipients were honored for their contributions throughout 2022.
"Ciruli Brothers is both honored and humbled by the Supplier All-Star Award. Whole Foods Market has been a valued partner for almost two decades. Through dedication and collaboration, we have achieved growth in the mango category with our champagne mango program, which is based on our commitment to excellent quality and service," Ciruli Brother's COO, Chris Ciruli, told The Packer. "We remain dedicated to Whole Foods Market’s success and aspire to always add value for its team members and customers alike."
Whole Foods Market leaders, category experts and merchants select winners across all departments and product categories, which include private label, produce, specialty, seafood, meat, grocery, culinary and whole body departments. Suppliers are also nominated by Whole Foods Market’s dedicated local foragers, who are responsible for finding new and emerging local producers within the communities served by Whole Foods Market.
“We are proud to recognize this dedicated group of suppliers and the work they do to serve our customers, advance our mission and propel the industry forward every day,” Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Whole Foods Market’s chief merchandising and marketing officer, said in a news release.
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From emerging local brands to long-standing partners beloved by employees and customers, these suppliers are essential to Whole Foods Market’s business and continue to raise the bar for excellence within the grocery space, Gafsi Oblisk added.
Whole Foods Market’s Supplier All-Stars include companies who have sold to the retailer from two to 28 years. Recipients include a regenerative organic grower, several plant-based products and suppliers seeking out innovative ways to grow, catch, source and make delicious foods.
Supplier All-Star Winners
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Abbot’s Butcher
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Athletic Brewing Co.
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Blue Stripes Urban Cacao
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Ciruli Bros.
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Eel River Organic Beef
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Frial
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Jasper Hill Farm
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Kettle Cuisine
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New Chapter
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Organic Valley
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Pangea Shellfish Co.
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Patagonian Lamb
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Simpli
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The Elite Flower
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Vital Farms