Natural Grocers has released its fiscal year 2025 Sustainability Report, marking 70 years of industry leadership and highlighting more than $7 million invested in nutrition education services during the fiscal year.
The Lakewood, Colorado-based family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer emphasized its differentiated nutrition education program in this year’s report, showcasing free one-on-one coaching, nutrition education classes, recipe demonstrations and personalized shopping support provided by in-store nutritional health coaches.
“For 70 years, our family has believed that nutrition is the foundation of good health,” said Kemper Isely, co-president of Natural Grocers. “Our 2025 Sustainability Report reflects our ongoing investment in nutrition education, rigorous product standards and partnerships that strengthen communities and support environmental stewardship.”
Nutrition education program earns industry recognition
Natural Grocers’ Nutrition Education program earned The Sustainability in the Food Industry Award from The Shelby Report during fiscal 2025. The program provides evidence-based nutrition guidance to customers and crew members at no cost, underscoring the company’s belief that accessible, research-backed nutrition support can meaningfully impact individual and community well-being.
The report covers multiple sustainability pillars including product standards, regenerative agriculture, operational sustainability and community support. Natural Grocers maintains some of the strictest product standards in the industry, including longstanding prohibitions on synthetic colors and problematic ingredients.
The company continues to prioritize vendors and farming partners committed to soil health, biodiversity and ecological stewardship. Operational decisions across stores, facilities and supply chain remain grounded in sustainable practices.
$16 million invested in employee compensation, benefits
In fiscal year 2025, Natural Grocers invested more than $16 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for crew members, demonstrating its commitment to crew development through education, benefits and local engagement.
The report includes vendor profiles showcasing partnerships that demonstrate support and collaboration toward ecological sustainability. Natural Grocers’ continued growth and industry leadership show that a sustainable, affordable food system is both possible and essential, according to the company.
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