Kroger announces second year of Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator
America's largest grocery retailer, The Kroger Co., has announced the second year of its groundbreaking Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator, a program designed to enhance and accelerate the selection of local items sold in the Kroger Family of Companies. The program provides a pathway to entry for local businesses of all sizes by allowing American-based growers and producers the chance to work directly with the retailer. Through the Supplier Accelerator, Kroger is continuing to expand its fresh departments—including produce, deli, bakery, meat, seafood, dairy, specialty cheeses, and floral—and commitment to being Fresh for Everyone.
Through May 23, 2022 at 11:59 PM PDT, suppliers can apply to be considered for the Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator, a two-day event held in Cincinnati in August. In collaboration with ECRM and RangeMe, Kroger's category management and fresh director team will review applications in multiple rounds, selecting 30 finalists to attend the event. Finalists will be given the opportunity to show off their products and interact with category managers, leaders and entrepreneurs at various stages throughout the selection process. The Top 15 finalists will be invited to present to a panel of Kroger executives where five winners will be named. The prize package for those winners includes product placement on shelf within Kroger's Family of Companies; recommended partnerships with sponsors; and business development coaching from Kroger merchandising and sales leaders.