Natural Grocers has released its environmental, social and governance report for fiscal year 2023. In its third annual ESG report, the specialty retailer emphasizes its continued support for practices that promote environmental sustainability, human health and community well-being, including its new product standards implemented during the fiscal year.
"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," Kemper Isely, executive co-president of Natural Grocers, said in a news release.
"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," Isley added. "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."
Founded in 1955, the family-operated specialty retailer says that one of its greatest opportunities to positively impact environmental sustainability and human health is through prioritizing products sourced from vendors that embrace regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices.
Natural Grocers says it hopes to inspire other companies by embracing ecologically thoughtful practices while offering high-quality organic and natural products at affordable prices.
Highlights from the 2023 report
In fiscal year 2023, Natural Grocers said it:
- Invested more than $6 million to provide free nutrition education to its customers, crew and communities.
- Believes it is the first national retailer to offer private-label eggs from regenerative certified farms. The Regeneratively Grown certification uses a scientifically rigorous process to measure soil health, the effectiveness of regenerative farm practices, and their impact over time.
- Extended the certified organic requirement to its entire coffee category in support of organic farming practices and transparency.
- Installed a carbon dioxide refrigeration system in a second store, which saves energy and provides enhanced environmental protection compared to conventional refrigerant technologies.