TORONTO, ON (May 2, 2012) – “At Whole Foods Market, we strive to offer the freshest, most flavourful natural and organic foods available, and we are overjoyed to increase our presence in Ontario,” comments Michael Bashaw, Midwest Regional President. “We are greatly looking forward to expanding our brand and offering our wide selection of high quality natural and organic products to an even larger customer base,” says Bashaw.
The store will reflect the company’s mission of supporting sustainable agriculture and the environment by featuring natural and organic foods, which are free of artificial ingredients and hydrogenated fats. With a focus on fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, specialty items, high-quality meats and poultry, everyday pantry staples and sustainable seafood, the store will appeal to a variety of customers ranging from the health conscious to serious food enthusiasts.
“This new store will not only reflect the qualities and attributes of our existing stores, it will help us continue our commitment to our local communities,” continues Bashaw. “From an increased store size, to a varying product mix and our unparalleled community support initiatives, we can’t wait to share the Whole Foods Market experience with even more Canadians.”
Whole Foods Market, which estimates it will add approximately 150 additional jobs in the Toronto market, has been named by Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” in the U.S. for 15 consecutive years – every year since the List’s inception. In addition, the Company boasts an 80% fulltime employment rate nationwide, which is nearly double the rate of its competitors. This commitment to the company translates to increased passion and product knowledge by its Team Members.
“Our excellent customer service is what sets us apart from our competitors,” Bashaw says. “We’re proud that our Team Members are truly passionate about sharing the joys of great-tasting natural and organic food with our local communities.”
Whole Foods Market has a history of establishing a commitment to each of the communities it serves. Community support is considered a “Core Value” to the Company, and is something that is supported during everyday business. Quarterly Community Support Days, where 5 percent of one-day’s sales are donated to a local nonprofit organization, are one of the most successful Company programs. Other community support programs include One Dime at a Time, where customers can opt to have their 10¢ bag refund donated to a nonprofit organization, as well as daily donations to local food banks.
“These stores will allow us to deepen our connections within the community,” Bashaw comments. “We look forward to building strong relationships with our neighborhood partners in our new communities.”
