Vallarta Supermarkets has partnered with health benefits technology provider evermore to expand access to culturally relevant products for Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and commercial program members at the grocer’s locations across California.
The integration marks the first time Vallarta, one of California’s largest Latino-owned grocery chains, has joined a health benefit card platform.
Its inclusion in evermore’s network is designed to help members use their benefits to buy food and over-the-counter products that support preventative health and condition management.
New frontiers in retail and health benefits
Evermore’s &more card is used nationally by health plans to help members access nutrition and OTC products. With the addition of Vallarta, evermore expands its footprint into one of its largest markets and into culturally specific food retail.
“For our growing base of members, food is personal – and benefits should feel that way too,” said Jared Childs, VP of growth.
“Vallarta Supermarkets is a trusted staple in Latino communities, and this partnership helps us expand access to culturally relevant grocery options in one of our largest and most important markets.”
Retailer response and technology investment
Founded in 1985, Vallarta Supermarkets operates more than 60 stores throughout California. Company executives said the benefit card integration aligns with ongoing investments in improving the shopping experience and strengthening community support.
“At Vallarta, our technology investments are always rooted in improving the customer experience,” said Steve Netherton, chief information officer. “Working with evermore allows us to simplify how health plan members shop for the foods that matter most to them and strengthens our ability to support communities across California.”
Carr Osborn, chief technology officer, added that making culturally relevant food available and affordable is “at the heart of our stores,” and that the new partnership will help more members use their benefits at Vallarta locations.
Health equity and benefits strategy
Evermore administers smart benefits to connect people with the products and services they need to live healthier lives, partnering with health plans, payers and retailers to deliver expanded benefits for healthy foods, OTC medications and related services.
Vallarta Supermarkets plans to continue expanding its network and service options, with its first store outside California scheduled to open next year in Glendale, Arizona.
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