Suma Wholefoods, the Elland (Leeds) based natural foods wholesaler, has been awarded the title of “Employer of the Year” at the annual Grocer Gold awards, 2016.
The Awards – considered the the most prestigious within the food and drink retail industry – were hosted by Simon Callow ( Amadeus, Ace Ventura, Four weddings and a Funeral), The Grocer Editor, Adam Leyland, announced the winners.
Suma has been supplying natural food since 1977, and has been a worker co-operative for nearly 40 years. Owned and managed by the members, everybody has an equal say, equal pay and an equal share in its success. The result is a “unique company – uniquely managed, unique to work for, and for customers, unique levels of satisfaction and service”
Within the category, Suma Wholefoods were up against Lidl, Aldi & Bidvest (previously 3663).
“To be winners of this highly acclaimed industry award, when being up against three multi-national companies, is a remarkable achievement for us – it shows other ‘traditional’ businesses that a group of people can work together in a different way and run a successful business without the need for overpaid bosses or hierarchical structures.” commented Sheree Hatton, Brand Co-ordinator, who went on to say, “Compared to the other nominees in our category, we’re relatively small in numbers o to be noticed for what we do is extremely exciting – who knows what opportunities this will open up for us!”.
