In an initiative that marries sustainability with community support, Florida-based Hispanic grocery chains Sedano’s Supermarkets and Fresco y Más have partnered with Amerant Bank to launch a collection of reusable shopping bags. These bags, designed by Amerant team member Alexis Dominguez, reflect the rich Hispanic culture that characterizes South Florida and Tampa. More than just bags, this initiative aims to foster a connection between local businesses and the communities they serve, all while promoting eco-friendliness.
This collaborative effort aligns firmly with Amerant’s dedication to making a positive impact in the community. Jerry Plush, the chairman and CEO of Amerant, expressed his enthusiasm about teaming up with Sedano’s. He stated, “We are excited to launch this initiative with Sedano’s, an organization that shares our dedication to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.” The reusable bags not only symbolize cultural creativity but also contribute significantly to local charitable causes.
The proceeds from this initiative will benefit Centro Mater, a Miami-based nonprofit organization focused on providing educational and social services to underserved children and families. This partnership emphasizes the importance of corporate responsibility in modern retail and highlights how businesses can successfully blend profit with purpose.
Currently, over 40,000 of these colorful, reusable bags are being distributed across various Sedano’s and Fresco y Más locations in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Tampa. Customers at these stores can acquire a bag either for free or by donating any amount they choose, reinforcing the idea of giving back while enhancing the shopping experience. Moreover, these bags will also be made available at Amerant banking locations throughout South Florida, making sustainability easily accessible to a broader audience.
One of the highlights of this campaign is its timing, as it coincides with the holiday season, making it a perfect opportunity for community members to contribute to both sustainability efforts and local charities while doing their holiday shopping. Sedano’s marketing director, Javier Herran, noted, “As a family-owned company deeply rooted in South Florida, we’re excited to offer our customers a chance to contribute to a more sustainable environment while supporting Centro Mater.” By reinforcing local ties and investing in the community, Sedano’s and Fresco y Más are setting an example for independent grocery retailers nationwide.
The design of the bags itself is a testament to the cultural heritage of the region, illustrating the significance of Hispanic influence on South Florida’s identity. Such thoughtful design not only meets consumer demand for eco-friendly products but also speaks directly to the community’s essence. Customers are likely to feel a sense of ownership and pride in using a product that represents their cultural background and supports local initiatives.
The campaign builds on the recent momentum in the grocery sector, which has witnessed a growing trend towards sustainability and corporate responsibility. Companies are increasingly aware of their environmental impact, and consumers are taking note. According to a Nielsen report, 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable brands. This initiative by Sedano’s and Fresco y Más not only meets this demand but also enhances customer loyalty by reflecting their values.
This move also comes on the heels of the divestiture of Fresco y Más from Southeastern Grocers earlier this year, showcasing how independently operated companies can continue thriving while focusing on community engagement and sustainability efforts. As independent grocery chains seek to differentiate themselves in a competitive market dominated by larger retailers, innovative initiatives like this standout as powerful marketing tools and enhance brand equity.
The reusable bag campaign exemplifies how small, independent grocery retailers can leverage community ties in conjunction with environmental considerations to create meaningful change. It encourages consumers to think about their purchasing power and how it can support not only local businesses but also vital community resources like Centro Mater.
In conclusion, the partnership between Sedano’s Supermarkets, Fresco y Más, and Amerant Bank is a significant stride towards creating a more sustainable and engaged community. By providing locally-inspired, eco-friendly shopping bags, these retailers are enhancing the customer shopping experience while giving back to the community they serve. As retail continues to evolve, such initiatives will undoubtedly set the standard for the future of grocery shopping.