FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PCC announces record sales and outstanding labor contract
Seattle, WA, April 28, 2005 — PCC Natural Markets celebrated record sales of $89 million in 2004, at the cooperative's annual meeting last night.
"PCC success in 2004 came from our dedication to the three elements of the triple bottom line of sustainability — encompassing economics, social mission, and environmental stewardship," said CEO Tracy Wolpert. "We continued to offer great natural foods from a talented staff who enjoy providing great customer service in our community-based stores. We look forward to continuing this balanced approach on behalf of our member-owners in the future."
PCC is also celebrating a new 3.5-year labor contract with Local UFCW 1105. Described by Wolpert as "arguably the best grocery labor contract on the West Coast," it includes a much-improved healthcare package, distinguishing PCC's contract from the recent trend of cutbacks in medical coverage in the grocery industry.
It offers full family medical coverage for staff working 24 hours a week or more at no cost to staff; and includes alternative therapies, domestic partner coverage, and far lower out-of-pocket costs.
Other achievements highlighted at the annual meeting included:
- PCC's community support for its Cash for the Hungry program, where shopper donations purchased almost 32 tons of food for local food banks, and PCC's Scrip program that generated more than $56,000 for 98 local schools and non-profit organizations.
- PCC's being honored with the Special Achievement Award by Sustainable Seattle for its support of local, sustainable agriculture, its commitment to consumer education, and for taking positions on matters advancing sustainability. Last night PCC was also presented with an award from Bastyr University that recognized PCC's support for Bastyr and the passion for natural health, community involvement and the environment that both organizations share.
- The ongoing success of the PCC Farmland Trust, the separate non-profit entity founded by PCC in 1999 that works to secure and preserve farmland in Washington State and move it into organic production. The Trust was supported by $225,000 in donations in 2004, contributed by a variety of donors, of which PCC was the largest. Land purchased by the Trust includes Bennington Place in Eastern Washington, where pastured livestock and poultry are raised by the family-owned Thundering Hooves ranch.
- The popular member benefit of 10% off a shopping trip of choice each month is now a permanent benefit.
About PCC Natural Markets
Headquartered in Seattle, WA, PCC Natural Markets is a certified organic retailer and the largest consumer-owned natural foods retailer in the United States, with an active membership of over 36,000. Founded in 1953 as a food-buying club and incorporated as Puget Consumer's Co-op in 1961, the company has been doing business as PCC Natural Markets since 1998. Membership is not required for shopping at PCC.