Innovation, environmental stewardship and mission-driven empowerment were some of the attributes recognized by these industry awards.

May 18, 2022

3 Min Read
Whole Foods Market names 2021 Supplier of the Year winners

Whole Foods Market recognized 30 suppliers from the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada for this year's edition of its annual Supplier Awards.

These recipients were honored in a range of different categories: Regenerative Agriculture Commitment, Service and Partnership, Purpose-Driven Empowerment, Environmental Stewardship, Supply Chain Support, Outstanding Innovation and Raising the Bar for Quality. In addition, regional and overall winners were chosen for the 2021 Rookie of the Year Award and the coveted 2021 Supplier of the Year Award.

Winners were selected by Whole Foods Market leaders, category experts and buyers who work closely with suppliers every day.

"We’re incredibly proud to showcase the exceptional achievements of our suppliers who work so hard to serve our customers and support our mission," said Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, chief marketing and communications officer at Whole Foods Market. "Our suppliers are essential to our business. On this 10th anniversary of the awards program, we are particularly grateful for the partnership and dedication of this extraordinary group who continues to raise the industry bar for quality, innovation, and social responsibility."

2021 Supplier of the Year

Supplier of the Year is awarded to Whole Foods Market suppliers who rise to the top in overall excellence.

Global winners: American Tuna, Willamette Valley Pie Company and Campos Borquez

Regional winners: Tsiona Foods (Mid-Atlantic), Ruby Jean's Juicery (Rocky Mountain), Barebottle Brewing Co. (Northern California), The Backyard Food Company (North Atlantic), Murphy's Naturals (Southeast), Calyan Wax Co (Southwest), Every Body Eat (Midwest), SpudLove Potato Chips (Pacific Northwest), Asha Pops (Southern Pacific), Talea Beer Co. (Northeast), Karaway (United Kingdom)

Rookie of the Year is awarded only to new global suppliers in 2021 who provide products to three or more Whole Foods Market regions with strong overall performance and execution. This year's winners are Mary Ruth's, Willamette Valley Pie Company, Juneshine and The Organic Rancher.

Quality and innovation

Raising the Bar for Quality awards recognize suppliers that help us advance Whole Foods Market standards and take an actionable part in moving the industry. This year's winners have displayed innovative manufacturing or agricultural techniques: Organic Valley, Golden West Food Group and Driscoll's.

Outstanding Innovation is awarded to suppliers leading disruptive innovation, positioned boldly at the forefront of industry trends. This year's winners were Hoplark and Cypress Grove.

Supply Chain Support awards recognize suppliers that find creative solutions to logistical challenges and prioritize Whole Foods Market's customer demand. This year's winners are Koch Turkey Farm, John J. Jerue Truck Broker Inc. and Raw Seafoods.

Purpose and core values

Environmental Stewardship is awarded to suppliers who have established environmentally conscious business methods and models, such as reducing carbon footprint and incorporating ecofriendly packaging. This year's winners are Serenity Kids and American Tuna.

Purpose Driven Empowerment awards honor brands aligned with Whole Foods Market's core value to care for its communities. This year's winners are McBride Sisters and Alter Eco.

Regenerative Agriculture Commitment award recognizes suppliers that are committed to holistic farming and grazing management practices that improve soil, enhance biodiversity and increase carbon capture. This year's winner is Campos Borquez.

Service and Partnership award goes to suppliers who support and share Whole Foods Market business initiatives and win-win-win outcomes. This year's winner is Keto Krisp.

Source: Whole Foods Market

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