Norfolk, Va., Dec. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Old Dominion University has announced the establishment of the Joan P. Brock Institute for Nutrition Science and Health to serve as a multidisciplinary hub that integrates sound nutrition and lifestyle medicine into medical and health professions education, basic science and translational research, clinical innovation and community health. This is the second recent transformative gift to advance the academic, health, wellness and research ecosystem in Hampton ...

Core Insights - Natural Grocers has been awarded the 2025 Sustainability in the Food Industry Award for its leadership in environmental and social progress within the food supply chain [1][7] - The company was recognized specifically for its Nutrition Education Program, which promotes accessible nutrition education and sustainable practices [2][6] Company Overview - Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers is the largest family-operated natural and organic retailer in the U.S., with 168 stores across 21 states [8][10] - The company adheres to strict quality guidelines, ensuring that its grocery products do not contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or synthetic colors [10] Nutrition Education Program - The Nutrition Education Program is a core offering of Natural Grocers, emphasizing the importance of nutrition education for both customers and employees [2][4] - Each store features a full-time Nutritional Health Coach (NHC) who provides free, personalized nutrition education, contributing to informed health choices [3][5] - NHCs undergo over 160 hours of continuing education annually to stay updated on nutrition science and wellness trends [5] Commitment to Sustainability - Natural Grocers integrates sustainability into its operations by empowering individuals through education, fostering informed decision-making for healthier lifestyles [6][7] - The company's approach to sustainability is characterized by community outreach initiatives and a focus on human connection, contrasting with the fast-paced retail environment [6][7] Financial Commitment - In fiscal year 2024, Natural Grocers invested over $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for its employees, reflecting its commitment to community and crew [10]

Core Points - Natural Grocers is celebrating the grand reopening of its remodeled Cherry Knolls store on September 12, 2025, with significant discounts and community events [1][3][6] - The store has been serving the Centennial community for nearly 15 years and aims to welcome both longtime customers and new shoppers [2][4] - The remodel includes sustainable building features and a modernized layout to enhance the shopping experience [8][9] Promotions and Events - The grand reopening will feature a $2,500 donation to Food Bank of the Rockies, giveaways, and a prize wheel for customers [3][6] - Customers can enjoy discounts of up to 50% on select items from September 12 to October 31, including organic produce and other grocery items [3][6][19] - Special promotions for the first 150 customers include mystery gift cards valued between $5 and $500 and free hand-crafted backpacks for the first 500 shoppers [6][13] Store Features - The remodeled Cherry Knolls store will offer a brighter atmosphere, a larger selection of organic produce, and an expanded body care and supplement department [5][9] - A dedicated Nutrition Education Center will be available for classes and community engagement [9] - The store will continue its commitment to high-quality, affordable natural and organic products, maintaining its founding principles [12][9] Community Engagement - Natural Grocers has a long-standing partnership with Food Bank of the Rockies, contributing to food security in the region [10][11] - The company has provided over 3 million meals to individuals in need through its community outreach programs [10] - The "Bring Your Own Bag" program supports local food banks, reinforcing the company's commitment to community welfare [10][11]

Summary of Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage (NGVC) Conference Call Company Overview - **Company Name**: Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage (NGVC) - **Founded**: 1955 - **Public Trading**: NYSE - **Number of Stores**: 169 stores in 21 states, all west of the Mississippi excluding California - **TTM Revenue**: Approximately $1.3 billion - **TTM Adjusted EBITDA**: Approximately $96 million - **Employee Count**: About 4,000 employees [4][10] Core Business Model and Differentiation - **Focus**: Specialty retailer in the natural and organic grocery space - **Nutrition Education**: Extensive free science-based nutrition education programs offered to customers, including one-on-one health coaching [5][30] - **Product Standards**: Highest product standards in the industry, including 100% organic produce, free-range eggs, and humanely raised meat [7][26] - **Pricing Strategy**: Competitive pricing, often lower than competitors, achieved through a small store format that enhances operational efficiency [8][23] - **Store Format**: Small store format of approximately 10,500 square feet, allowing flexibility and close customer contact [11][12] Community Engagement - **Community Support**: Over $4 million in product donations to food banks and nearly $1 million in monetary donations in 2024 [10] - **Market Presence**: Successful in various community types, particularly rural and health-oriented outdoor communities [19][20] Competitive Landscape - **Primary Competitors**: Conventional grocers, Sprouts, and Whole Foods - **Market Trends**: Strong wellness trend towards healthy eating and living, positioning NGVC as an authentic player in the market [25][26] - **Customer Trust**: High customer trust due to strict product standards, allowing NGVC to differentiate itself from competitors [27] Financial Performance - **Same Store Sales Growth**: 8.4% year-to-date, with traffic growth of 5.4% and basket size growth of 2.9% [39][41] - **Store Economics**: Average investment per store is around $3.6 million, with expected year one sales of approximately $5 million and EBITDA margins of 10.5% to 11% by year five [45][47] Expansion Plans - **Store Growth**: Planning to open 2 new stores in the current fiscal year and 6 to 8 in the next fiscal year, with a focus on prudent growth [50][55] - **Market Analysis**: Identified 75 potential communities for future expansion, focusing on grocery deserts and healthy demographics [56][58] Marketing Strategy - **Marketing Approach**: Combination of brand advertising, community events, and a focus on the Empower loyalty program, which has an 82% penetration rate [71][73] - **Target Audience**: Emphasis on engaging younger audiences through social media and health-focused messaging [78] Shareholder Returns - **Capital Allocation**: Commitment to returning value to shareholders through dividends and prudent capital allocation, with a history of returning $116 million since 2019 [62][67] Conclusion - **Future Outlook**: NGVC is well-positioned for growth with a strong focus on community engagement, product quality, and customer education, while maintaining a competitive edge in pricing and store format [55][88]

Core Insights - Natural Grocers is celebrating its 70th anniversary, emphasizing its commitment to quality products and community values established by its founders in 1955 [1][2][3] - The company operates 169 stores across 21 states, maintaining a focus on organic and natural products that meet strict quality standards [3][10] Anniversary Celebration Details - The anniversary event will take place from August 14 to 16, featuring discounts of up to 60% on over 500 products [7] - Customers can participate in various giveaways, including a chance to win a Mustang Mach-E® Premium or $47,000 cash, along with other prizes totaling over $194,000 [5][16] - Special promotions include free snow cones, popcorn, and limited-edition products like the Pecan Caramel Pie coffee blend priced at $7.99 for 10 ounces [6][7] Community Engagement - On August 14, 1% of all sales will be donated to the Heroes in Aprons Fund, supporting Natural Grocers employees facing unexpected hardships [8][12] - The company continues to uphold its Five Founding Principles, including a commitment to community and crew, with significant investments in employee compensation [10]

Core Insights - Natural Grocers is celebrating Mother's Day with exclusive deals and promotions from May 9-11, offering discounts up to 32% on select items to help customers show appreciation for mothers without overspending [3][4]. Company Overview - Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. is a specialty retailer focused on natural and organic groceries, body care products, and dietary supplements, with a commitment to affordable nutrition and a healthy environment [2][7]. - The company operates 169 stores across 21 states, emphasizing community empowerment through free nutrition education and high-quality organic products [2][7]. Promotions and Offers - The Mother's Day event includes special promotions such as discounts on groceries, gifts, and a chance to win prizes through activities like "Count the Combs" [3][4]. - Members of the {N}power rewards program can access additional promotions, including discounts up to 43% on select products and exclusive offers on body care and beauty items [4][11]. - Customers can participate in a sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 gift card by engaging with the company's promotional activities [4][10]. Community Engagement - Natural Grocers honors mothers and caregivers by providing thoughtful gifts, easy recipes, and healthy treats, reinforcing its commitment to community and customer service [2][6]. - The company offers free nutritional health coaching sessions and personalized shopping experiences, further enhancing customer engagement and education [7][21].