Northwest Grocers Selects KeHE as Its Natural-Organic Distributor

Northwest Grocers (NWG) said it has selected KeHE as its primary distribution partner for natural, organic and specialty products. The four-year deal allows the Tukwila, Wash.-based member-owned organization’s 90 independent grocers across Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Northern California to leverage KeHE’s national scale and continue to be strong pillars of the communities they serve in the ever-changing market.

“Northwest Grocers is known for their strategic support of their members,” said Gene Carter, KeHE’s chief operating officer. “KeHE was founded by a passionate grocer in service of the needs of other retailers. Almost 70 years later, we’re even more dedicated to serving the unique, ever-changing needs of that customer base. This partnership will allow KeHE to collaborate with the NWG team in areas like supply chain and category management to drive growth and innovation for their members.”

NWG stores operate under several banners, including Thriftway, Red Apple, Select Markets and IGA. The group was previously allied with Unified Grocers, which was subsequently acquired by Supervalu and then the natural-products distributor United Natural Foods.

The new partnership will help NWG retailers meet the needs of digitally savvy and innovation hungry customers with a curated product assortment and quick speed to shelf with new items, the company said.

“Northwest Grocers provides its members with best in class support for advertising, marketing and promotional merchandising,” said Stan Trask, president of NWG. “We are committed to bringing our retailers the best tools for supporting their natural, organic and specialty product needs. Our partnership with KeHE unlocks the resources our independents need for an innovative full solution program that will provide them with the ability to drive sales and lead in this market.”