Schnuck Markets Inc. has introduced the second class of its Schnucks Springboard emerging business accelerator to 15 stores across the St. Louis area.
The 10 participants began a four-week in-store trial on April 15, marking a significant step in the retailer’s initiative to support local and regional entrepreneurs.
The cohort includes a range of brands such as Cheryl’s Herbs, Mama Pacha Sabor and SugarBot Sweet Shop & Creamery.
In addition to the shelf trial, which runs through May 12, each business received $5,000 in equity-free funding and participated in development classes at the company’s headquarters.
“Upon conclusion of the four-week trial, Schnucks category managers will evaluate customer demand and sales of accelerator products to determine if the products will become part of Schnucks’ everyday offerings,” the company stated.
The retailer has scheduled coordinated sampling events May 2-3 at several high-traffic locations, including Richmond Center, Des Peres and Edwardsville. These will allow shoppers to interact with the producers.
While the cohort begins its trial, Schnucks has begun soliciting applications for its third class, set to begin in August.
To qualify, companies must have less than $1 million in annual revenue, fewer than 50 employees and be based in one of 12 Midwestern states. The deadline to apply is April 25.
“If selected, vendors must have the ability to attend all business development classes in-person at Schnucks’ St. Louis headquarters this fall,” the retailer stated.
Founded in 1939, Schnuck Markets is a family-owned operation with 113 stores in Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. A primary member of the 1939 Group Inc., the company is ranked as the 13th-largest privately owned grocer in the U.S.
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