Multiple grocers and distributors have been named by the Disability Equality Index (DEI) as a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion.”
The DEI is a benchmarking tool that helps companies build a roadmap of measurable actions they can take to achieve disability inclusion and equality. It is a joint initiative of Disability:IN and the American Association of People with Disabilities that measures key performance indicators across organizational culture, leadership, accessibility, employment, community engagement, support services and supplier inclusion.
Now in its 10th year, the DEI helps businesses positively impact the employment of people with disabilities, create long-term value and mitigate risks from new legislative requirements.
“On the 10th anniversary of the Disability Equality Index, we’re extremely proud of the 542 national and international companies that are taking a proactive role in leading progress towards disability inclusion, setting a benchmark for others to follow,” said Jill Houghton, president and CEO of Disability:IN.
“Their dedication to fostering inclusive workplaces not only attracts top talent but also drives innovation and creates sustainable performance in today’s global market. Together, we are creating a future where everyone can contribute and thrive.”
Among those recognized are:
Albertsons
Albertsons Cos. received a top score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index.
“At Albertsons Cos., we recognize the value of ensuring all associates have the resources necessary to bring their whole selves to work and excel. Disability inclusion for our associates, customers and business partners means we put people first, and we are intentionally providing opportunities for everyone to contribute,” said Monique Lanaux, global VP and chief diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging officer at Albertsons Cos.
“Earning a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index reflects our commitment to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging for all our associates and celebrating our associates’ diverse abilities.”
Albertsons Cos. is committed to cultivating a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture that embraces differences and provides equal opportunity for all associates in several ways, including:
- Inclusion index: In 2022, Albertsons Cos. launched a company-wide inclusion index which enables employees to share their perspectives and help foster a culture where everyone is treated with courtesy, dignity and respect.
- DiverseABILITY: In 2022, the company launched its eighth associate resource group, DiverseABILITY, which focuses on providing awareness and opportunities for people with diverse abilities, their caretakers and allies.
- Sponsorships: Since 2011, Albertsons Companies Foundation has donated more than $65 million to nonprofits focused on supporting people with disabilities, including the Special Olympics, Easterseals and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Support ranges from volunteer time, event participation, in-kind products and donations from customers at the register.
- Supplier Diversity Program: Albertsons Cos. hosted its fourth annual Supplier Diversity event this year to give diverse-owned suppliers the opportunity to expand their business with Albertsons Cos. and its stores.
Kroger
The Kroger Co. received a top score, making the company a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion” for the fifth year in a row.
“Kroger is committed to providing an inclusive workplace where associates of all abilities and backgrounds can truly thrive,” said Tim Massa, SVP and chief people officer. “Consistently earning this distinction is a testament to our associates and the environment we’ve created together.”
Kroger, recognized for its industry-leading benefits, culture and commitment to creating a workplace that respects and values every community, has been honored by Handshake for excellence in early career hiring, named a best workplace for diverse professionals by Mogul, earned recognition from Newsweek as One of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity and ranked among Computerworld’s Top 100 best places to work in IT.
“Each associate brings their own set of abilities, encompassing diverse skillsets and backgrounds. Kroger embraces the opportunity for associates to learn from one another and grow together,” said Buffy Turner, director of end to end fresh and executive advisor to the Our Abilities Associate Resource Group.
Meijer
Meijer was recognized for the eighth year in a row, highlighting its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
“At Meijer, treating our team members with dignity and respect is more than a statement – it’s something we live out every day. From our humble beginnings in Greenville, Michigan, to now celebrating our 90th anniversary with more than 70,000 team members across the Midwest, this sentiment remains a core part of our values and culture of belonging,” said Timothy Williams, VP of diversity and inclusion.
“We are especially proud of our team member resource group, Meijer Disability Awareness and Advocacy Group (mDAAG), which continues to contribute to our success. We appreciate Disability:IN for not only this recognition, but for their work to drive disability inclusion and equality in the workplace.”
The mission of mDAAG is to advance the company’s commitment to valuing diversity and inclusion by serving as a resource and liaison on issues of disability inclusion and equality.
[RELATED: Meijer Supports Black-Owned Businesses Through Grow Academy]
UNFI
United Natural Foods Inc. has also earned a top score of 100, marking it as the only North American grocery wholesaler to achieve this score and recognition in 2024.
Led by the company’s associate belonging and innovation group, DREAM (Disability Resources, Equity, Allyship and Mentoring), UNFI is working to advance a culture of inclusion and empathy across its workplace through open dialogue, effective associate training and by honoring cultural holidays and special events.
During the past year, UNFI has implemented company-wide mental health awareness training and resources, organizing multiple workshops on parenting a child with special needs and conducting the Wounded Warrior Project Carry Forward 5K run and fundraiser. In this last event, UNFI associates across the country ran, walked or biked 176 total miles and raised nearly $10,000.
Additional efforts this year include the creation of a series of guides, short-form videos and best practices for enhancing accessibility on the most utilized digital tools within UNFI and the launch of virtual body-doubling sessions to boost motivation and productivity by working alongside an accountability partner.
“UNFI acknowledges and praises all our associates who live and work with disabilities, as well as those who serve as caregivers,” said Guillaume Bagal, UNFI’s VP of diversity, equity, inclusion and well-being.
“We take incredible pride in being recognized for the third consecutive year as a Disability Equality Index Top Scorer and Best Place to Work. We are committed to ensuring that we remain an employer that promotes accessibility and growth opportunities, combats stigma, fosters disability education and awareness and ensures both physical and psychological safety for all associates.”
