To diversify is to strengthen, and Whole Foods Market is walking that walk. The retailer recently announced the participants for its latest cohort in the Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (LEAP), celebrating brands selected for the program’s Early Growth track.
“Our Local and Emerging Brands team is thrilled to have selected a mix of diverse founders and products from various backgrounds for this year’s Early Growth program track,” said Alyssa Vescio, Senior Vice President of Merchandising. “Connecting with new brands and business owners who are hungry to grow allows our team to diversify product selection in stores, support small businesses, and stay committed to our local communities. We look forward to seeing these 10 brands strive for continued growth and carve their path to success through Whole Foods Market’s mentorship.”
According to a press release, LEAP was launched in 2022 and highlights the retailer’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial relationships with local and emerging brands through specialized, educational programming, and individual mentorship.
The 2024 Early Growth cohort consists of 10 innovative brands not yet available in Whole Foods Market stores: Aahana’s, Bowlcut, Date Better Snacks, Edenesque, Freezcake, Geem, Maté Party, Sam + Leo, Sibeiho, and Tuyyo Foods. After completing the 12-week curriculum, these suppliers' products will be considered for inclusion on Whole Foods Market shelves in their own cities or regional areas.
This year, Whole Foods Market’s Local and Emerging Brands team reviewed more than 1,600 applications for the Early Growth cohort, a 60 percent increase from the previous year.
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