By Kristina Peters
Source: www.winsightgrocerybusiness.com, February 2021

Nearly a dozen U.S. grocery retailers received perfect marks on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

The index measures key performance indicators such as non-discrimination policies; equitable employment benefits; inclusive culture; public commitment to LGBTQ+ equality; and responsible citizenship.

Out of 1,142 companies that participated in the 2021 CEI survey, 767 met all the criteria to earn a 100% rating and the designation of being a 2021 “Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality.” The grocers on the list include:

  • Amazon.com Inc. (owner of Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market stores)
  • Food Lion (an Ahold Delhaize banner)
  • The Giant Co. (an Ahold Delhaize banner)
  • Giant Eagle (an Ahold Delhaize banner)
  • Giant of Maryland (an Ahold Delhaize banner)
  • Hannaford Supermarkets (an Ahold Delhaize banner)
  • The Kroger Co.
  • Meijer
  • Target
  • Walmart

Earlier this year, WGB examined how companies large and small—including Walmart and Target—are leading the way to more inclusive environments for their employees, customers and communities alike. And although grocers have made significant strides with regard to diversity, equity and inclusion, one thing is certain: the work is never done. A sentiment Meijer VP of Diversity and Inclusion echoed.

“While our [CEI] score may be 100%, we know that there is always more to be done and we are committed to continuing this important work,” he said in a release.

Meijer’s LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion efforts include offering equal employment opportunities to all sexual orientations and gender identities; offering parity in benefits between same-sex and different-sex spouses, as well as transgender inclusive healthcare; supporting the LGBTQ+ communities it serves through sponsorship of local Pride events across the Midwest and partnerships with nonprofits that benefit LGBTQ+ youth; providing a supportive community for LGBTQ+ team members and their allies through its Meijer Pride team member resource group; and promoting robust diversity and inclusion training to all its team members.