Southeastern Grocers supplier diversity program targets inclusivity

Southeastern Grocers is looking to enhance its supplier network to include a wide range of inclusive partners across all of its banners.

To do this, the Jacksonville, Fla.-based grocer is working to identify and source from suppliers that are at least 51% owned, operated and managed by people who are disadvantaged, disabled, LGBTQ+, military veterans, minorities and/or women.

Categories of interest to the retailer include grocery, general merchandise, beauty and personal care products.

“It is our responsibility to take purposeful steps to form stronger partnerships with our minority suppliers and connect with new, diverse businesses whose products reflect the tastes and preferences of our associates, customers and communities that we serve in our stores,” said Dewayne Rabon, chief merchant at Southeastern Grocers,. “We are truly stronger together, and we are committed to being a culture of belonging and fostering an inclusive environment where differences are celebrated — we plan to reflect those values in the products we offer on our stores' shelves every day.”

In addition, through a partnership with ECRM and RangeMe, the retailer will conduct a virtual sourcing conference in the spring that aims to enhance partnerships with existing minority suppliers, as well as provide the opportunity to connect with new businesses to expand store offerings.