Oh, If you’ve caught the buzz about New Seasons Market but just want to understand what is New Seasons Market, I’ve got some goods for you. Dubbed the “friendliest store in town,” New Seasons Market has managed to establish itself as more than just your run-of-the-mill grocery store. This popular chain has made a commitment to sustainability and community and uses fresh, local ingredients. But what sets it apart? And why is it a perennial favorite for so many shoppers?
Whether you’re an eco-consumer, a locavore or a lover of great food with a side of community connection, this post is going to explain what is New Seasons Market all about. Keep reading to learn what the fuss is about and why you might consider making it your grocery destination of choice.
A Quick Background on New Seasons Market
New Seasons Market is a chain of grocery stores based in Portland which opened its first store in 2000. To be fair, the chain has retained the majority of its stores in Oregon, Washington and Northern California. The shop is most famous for its combination of quality grocery staples, local goods, and personable shopping experience that’s closer to a local market than a chain.
It’s a simple yet compelling ethos for New Seasons Market: Establish a place that brings together good food, community, and sustainability. They are committed to supporting local farmers and producers, providing quality products and giving back to the communities they serve.
So What Sets New Seasons Market Apart?
New Seasons Market is no ordinary grocery store. It’s a distinctive experience that speaks to shoppers who care about where their food comes from and what buying it means for the planet. Here’s what sets it apart and helps answer the question, What is New Seasons Market really known for?
A Focus on Local Products
A signature characteristic of New Seasons is its commitment to local producers. You walk into a location, and there are fruits, vegetables, dairy, and other products from nearby farms and producers. These relationships not only sustain regional economies but also help to guarantee that you’re receiving the freshest goods available.
From craft beer brewed a few miles away to artisan breads baked that morning, each shelf tells a story of its origin and roots in the community. And this emphasis on local sourcing also reduces the environmental impact of transport, which supports the store’s dedication to being sustainable.
Quality Goods Bought Ethically
New Seasons Market features a thoughtfully selected product offering with an eye to quality and sourcing. They provide a broad selection of organic, non-GMO options, and some of the products are certified by strict standards for fair trade and sustainability.
Their meat department, for instance, boasts of ethically raised everything. Animal welfare and ecological footprint are always top of mind, whether it be pasture-raised beef or sustainably sourced fish.
Small Businesses and Artisans Shall Be Supported
In addition to local sourcing, New Seasons Market is an advocate for small business and artisan producers. Their shelves are filled with up-and-coming brands and unique finds you won’t find at the bigger chain stores. This makes for a particularly dynamic shopping experience, since shoppers can come back again and again and have the opportunity to discover new favorites while supporting independent makers.
Commitment to Sustainability
New Seasons Market doesn’t just pay lip service to sustainability; it’s a fundamental value. The company prides itself on being ecologically friendly and responsible for reducing waste, saving trees, and reducing carbon emissions, and that is why it continues to make the statement with this bowtie.
Initiatives include:
- Cutting plastic: Getting customers to bring in their own bags and containers.
- Energy Efficiency: Officers use energy-saving lights and refrigerator-freezers in their stores.
- Food Waste Handling: Work with food banks and compost programs to ensure uneaten food is composted or donated, not wasted.
A Hometown, Community Atmosphere
Shopping at New Seasons Market is different because it is different. Their employees, whom they dubbed “Team Members,” are famously friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable. Many shops have community boards to inform customers about local events and causes.
Along with classes in cooking and tastings, they offer a number of active, home-cook-friendly activities to make the trip to the grocery store a bit more fun. For New Seasons, developing connections with the community is as important as selling groceries.
What Do They Offer at New Seasons Market?
The great variety and quality of products available at New Seasons Market are another reason customers return again and again. Here’s some of what you’ll find, generally speaking:
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, many of them from local farms.
- Local Products: Bread, pastries, and cheese prepared by local artisans.
- Broad Diet Compatibility: Vegan, gluten-free, and options for nearly every diet.
- Housemade Favorites: Complete meals, bisques, salads and other freshly prepared foods available at all times.
- Bulk Goods: Stock your pantry with bulk grains and beans, spices, snacks, and other essentials — and save hefty amounts of packaging waste.
- A specialty drink: From kombucha and craft beers to locally roasted coffee, their drink menu is to die for.
Why People Love New Seasons Market
There are plenty of good reasons that the New Seasons Market has a loyal following. Here, a few happy customers share why they still love shopping at the store:
- It’s Personal: “I appreciate how the staff knows me by name and makes me feel welcome. It’s one of those places where you’re a little more than a customer.”
- It’s Delicious: “The food is excellent. There’s always something new and fun to try!”
- It’s Ethical: “I’m comforted by the fact that my purchases go to support farmers in my local area and small businesses, assisting those who are fighting to make ends meet.”
How New Seasons Market Gives Back
Community and giving are at the heart of New Seasons Market. The business gives 10 percent of its post-tax profits to charities annually — with a focus on hunger relief, educational advancement and conservation efforts. They also back local schools, non profits, and food banks, so their ability to make a difference extends beyond the walls of their store.
Considering a Visit to New Seasons Market?
If you haven’t shopped at New Seasons Market yet, I say it’s about time. It’s more than a place to buy groceries; it’s a hub for community, sustainability, and high-quality food that you can feel good about. Once inside, it’s no wonder why it’s known as the home of the friendliest store in town.
Want to learn more about what is New Seasons Market? Click here to find the closest New Seasons Market to you and what they have to offer.
