Lori Rodriques, Supplier Diversity Manager at UNFI, has coined the term ACE to UNFI’s approach to Supplier Diversity, which stands for advocating internally and externally, consulting with internal business teams, and educating partners on supplier diversity. Advocating for a more inclusive supply chain that supports small and diverse farmers, she led the UNFI partnership with NMSDC’s Acres Program, Cultivating Equity in Black Agriculture. The program helps Black farmers overcome barriers and increase capacity, capability, capital, and communities. Lori is also partnering with UNFI’s Produce Team to innovate the fresh produce sourcing process by evaluating and piloting a new procurement platform from Share Farm. This certified diverse business connects small and BIPOC farms with large distributors and institutions.
In her latest project, and in collaboration with UNFI’s Strategic Sourcing and Legal teams, Lori helped develop UNFI’s first Supplier Diversity Policy with leadership support. The policy, which takes effect this fall, marks a significant step towards fostering an inclusive supply chain at UNFI. It will further encourage the participation of suppliers owned and operated by a diverse range of individuals, contributing to a vibrant and representative business ecosystem.