AUSTIN, Texas (Feb. 16, 2010) — Whole Foods Market (NASDAQ: WFMI) and Greenling Organic Delivery, the first and largest fresh, organic and local grocery delivery service in the Central Texas area, today announced a partnership to provide their customers with increased access to the freshest locally grown and organic produce and other high-quality products.
Greenling invites residents in Austin and San Antonio to sign up to receive delivery of primarily local products from the farms they work with directly, as well as from Whole Foods Market’s suppliers. Deliveries to new customers will begin at the end of February. In-store kiosks at the Sixth and Lamar and Gateway Whole Foods Market locations in Austin, as well as at the Quarry store in San Antonio, will provide instant access for shoppers to sign-up for the delivery service via Greenling.com. Representatives of Greenling will be at the kiosks to answer customer questions through March 8th to aid in the sign-up process.
“By partnering with Greenling, we’re creating a new way for our guests to enjoy our local products and offering free home delivery,” said Chris Romano, produce coordinator for the southwest region of Whole Foods Market. “Locally grown produce helps us stay connected to the seasons, regional varieties and the people who grow our food. Small, local farms and growers are a valuable part of the Central Texas communities and we hope this collaboration connects more people to local producers.”
The initial offering is an enhanced “Local Box,” which will change every week as Greenling’s team scours local farms for the freshest in-season fruits and vegetables to offer immediately after harvest. Shoppers can pick from a variety of other options, including building their own basket.
“Partnering with Whole Foods Market is an innovative way to increase the local food supply, and grow the local, sustainable food movement,” said Mason Arnold, co-founder and CEO of Greenling. “We’re excited to provide our service to Whole Foods Market’s customers and expand the reach of our local farmers.”
