WHAT’S THE STATE OF WOMEN-OWNED IN THE GROCERY BUSINESS TODAY?
The food industry is seeing a surge in women-owned brands. According to the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), women now account for 42% of all food, beverage, and hospitality businesses (now that’s a pretty impressive number).
More and more organizations recognize the value of supporting women-owned businesses and offering certifications to prove it. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is leading the charge as the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. Currently, there are over 16,000 certified women-owned businesses in the food and beverage industry alone!
Some retailers are getting in on the action too. Whole Foods, for example, has created initiatives to support and showcase women-owned brands in its stores. And guess what? It’s working! A few female founders quoted below have disclosed that these programs have significantly boosted sales.
But it’s not just about business – female shoppers also make a statement with their wallets. They’re more inclined to purchase from brands that prioritize personal, family, community, and environmental health. So if you’re a brand that’s doing good for the world, you’re more likely to catch female consumers’ eye (and the loyalty).
