Whole Foods Honors 2014 Supplier Award Winners

Whole Foods Market has revealed the winners of its annual Supplier Awards, the company’s highest honors for producer partners that embody its mission and core values, store officials say. Out of thousands of Whole Foods Market suppliers nationwide, fewer than 50 have received one of these distinguished awards. Two producers earned the grocer’s top “Supplier of the Year” award for outstanding all-around performance:

“Shoppers trust Whole Foods Market to uphold the highest quality, ingredient and sourcing standards in the industry, and our suppliers go to great lengths to help us deliver on that promise every day,” says Edmund LaMacchia, Whole Foods Market’s global vice president of procurement, perishables. “Our Supplier Award winners set the gold standard for producers in the industry, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements.” In addition to its two “Supplier of the Year” honorees, Whole Foods Market recognized its supplier partners in 16 categories that highlight several areas of achievement, including product innovation, environmental stewardship, ethical sourcing and excellence in quality standards and assurance. “Every one of our supplier partners adds flavor, character and integrity to our stores, whether they’re dedicated to land conservation, sustainable fishing methods or simply creating the best-tasting product on our shelves,” says Jim Speirs, Whole Foods Market’s global vice president of procurement, non-perishables. “We’re thankful for their drive, true partnership and commitment to growing their business with Whole Foods Market.” The retailer revealed its Supplier Award winners at a reception in Austin, Texas, at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel. Additional honorees include: