Whole Foods Market’s Florida Regional Office is rolling out a new, state-wide initiative to support local growers. All Florida stores will serve as drop points for local Community Supported Agriculture programs.
The company said it sees the initiative as a win-win opportunity for consumers to buy fresh, local food directly from a farm, and for farmers to sell more produce, earlier in the season. CSA programs connect its paid members with participating farmers who provide them a weekly stock of seasonal produce.
Whole Foods recognized a major obstacle was how farmers could deliver their products to consumers in a manner that is convenient to all participants. An understanding of these challenges, coupled with Whole Foods Market’s mission to support local farmers, prompted Florida stores to offer their outlets as complimentary drop spots.