“This is fabulous news!” said Eric Stille, Executive Chairman and fourth generation of Nugget Market’s founding family. “I am so proud of the way all 2,100 of our associates come together and create something very special at Nugget Market. We are an extended family of unique individuals who work hard, laugh, grow and support one another. At this company, building Trust with one another and our guests is key to our success. Our 3 Company Goals are Guest Satisfaction, Constant Improvement and to be a World-Class Employer! It takes every associate coming together to achieve these lofty goals. I am so proud of our Nugget Market family!”

For nearly a century, Nugget Market has been dedicated to taking care of their associates, as well as their guests and communities. One of the most obvious ways they do that is through industry-leading wages and benefits like their zero-premium health plan, and the fact that associates are eligible for healthcare benefits at just 22 hours worked per week. Associates also enjoy a flexible work schedule, an associate discount, up to five weeks of vacation time and 401(k) retirement options including a company match and profit-sharing contributions. In their 98-year history, Nugget Market has also maintained a perfect record of no lay-offs ever.

Perhaps even more well-known is Nugget Market’s dynamic culture of family and fun. For the last several years, this Yolo County-based grocer has given their entire company the chance to go on adventures like whitewater rafting and skiing or snowboarding. They also offer frequent opportunities for associates to develop personally and professionally with resources like their paid Return to Learn classes, self-nominating Leadership Nugget program, vendor field trips, college scholarships and more.

“The Stille family set the foundation for Nugget Market’s culture nearly 100 years ago and it has stood the test of time due to the commitment of our amazing associates, past and present, to live our values on a daily basis,” said Greg Hill, Nugget Market’s President and CEO. “It is part of our DNA to serve each other along with our guests and that culture generates a momentum that has fueled generations of success.”

Nugget Market earned their spot on this prestigious list thanks both to anonymous surveys from their associates and several in-depth responses to questions surrounding culture, values, strategy, associate involvement and leadership. The company has also been recognized by Great Place to Work in previous years as one of the nation’s Best Workplaces in Retail and the Bay Area, along with one of the Best Workplaces for Millennials, Women, Parents and Diversity, and one of People’s Companies that Care.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Market is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides the highest-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods all in a beautiful marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 16 locations: 13 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma, with a new Nugget Market planned for Rocklin in the spring of 2025.

For more information about Nugget Market’s ranking, read the Great Place to Work® review and Fortune review.

Methodology 

 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For 2024 From Fortune Partner Great Place To Work

Great Place To Work® has been surveying employees around the world about their workplace experiences for 30 years. We have developed a set of themes and metrics that not only predict whether employees feel their workplace is great, but predict retention, agility, and overall business success.  

Using our proprietary Trust Index™ survey, we measure the core of what we know creates great workplaces — key behaviors that drive trust in management, connection with colleagues, and loyalty to the company.  

The survey enables employees to share confidential quantitative and qualitative feedback about their organization’s culture by responding to 60 statements on a five-point scale and answering two open-ended questions.

Employees tell us whether leaders are accessible, communicate honestly and clearly, and if their actions match their words. They tell us whether they feel respected as individuals, if they receive training benefits, appreciation, support for their well-being and opportunities to contribute. They tell us whether they believe their company is fair related to pay, profits, promotions, recognition, favoritism, and opportunities. They tell us if they are proud of their work, their team, and their company and if they feel they make a difference, and their work is meaningful. And they tell us whether they enjoy the people they work with, feel cared for and can be themselves.   

List rankings are based on this employee feedback, which we analyze to determine the extent to which this experience is shared by the full workforce. Great Place To Work measures the differences in survey responses across demographic groups and roles within each organization to assess both the quality and consistency of the employee experience. Statements are weighted according to their relevance in describing the most important aspects of an equitable workplace.  

The best companies create great work experiences not just for management, but also for their part-time employees on the front lines, for those who’ve just joined and those who’ve spent their whole career there, for every race and ethnicity, gender, neurotype, or other demographic in the organization – we look at it all. Companies with the broadest set of employees who report positive workplace experience receive the highest rankings on lists.

In addition to analyzing employee feedback for the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work ® list we also consider what a company can tell us about their programs and workplace strategy. Each company also answers six essay questions that provide greater insight into how, and why the organization is great for all people. Responses are rigorously evaluated and cross-reviewed according to Great Place To Work’s research-driven criteria. From what companies share in datapoints and essays, we identify the organizations that offer the most generous, caring, and innovative programs reflecting a genuine commitment to meet the diversity of their people’s needs inside and outside the workplace as validated by what employees themselves report in survey results. 

Surveys must meet strict requirements for how they are distributed and the percentage of employees who respond to ensure they accurately represent honest feedback from the company’s full population. While essay responses provide important context for rankings, only survey data can garner a list placement. To be eligible for the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list, employers must have 1,000 or more employees in the U.S. and cannot be a government agency. In the last year, Great Place To Work surveyed companies employing more than 8.2 million people in the US and received more than 1.3 million survey responses. Of those, nearly 630,000 responses were received from employees at companies who were eligible for the 2024 list and this list is based on their feedback.  

“These last two years have been the most challenging in our 96-year history in the grocery business, and I am so proud of how our team has rallied together to always find a silver lining in whatever COVID challenge was thrown at them,” said Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets. “As front-line workers, serving the public and bringing a sense of calm to our guests, they truly brought the ‘Nugget Spirit’ to life.  Every day they exemplified and leaned on our Core Values of: Family, Fun, Trust, RAVE (Respect, Appreciate, Value Everyone) and having a Positive Attitude. I could not be prouder of our team; they truly are amazing!”

Across Northern California, Nugget Markets stores are known for their tremendous team and dynamic culture centered on family and fun. As their mission statement says, “Our associates are our competitive edge—superior quality and great prices are just part of the bargain.”

Along with guest satisfaction and constant improvement, one of Nugget Markets’ company goals is to be a world-class employer. This shows in their 96-year history of no lay-offs ever, and their industry-leading benefits and wages, flexible work schedules, outstanding 401(k) plan with 98% participation and comprehensive healthcare for full and part-time associates with zero premiums for their coverage. Nugget Markets was also one of the first companies in the nation to offer its associates “thank you” bonus COVID pay during the pandemic, which continued uninterrupted and eventually became permanent in January of this year.

“Of all the 17 years that Nugget Markets has placed on Fortune’s ‘Top 100 Companies to Work For’ list, this year means the most!” said Mary Muller, Nugget Markets’ Director of Human Resources. “We are so proud of our associates and the way they faced the adversity of being short-staffed, while carefully adhering to all the precautions of an essential business during the pandemic, always staying true to the core values of our company culture. Throughout all the uncertainties, our associates never wavered in their commitment to providing our guests with cheerful, excellent service in a clean and safe environment. We are inspired by what our Nugget family has accomplished and the way they embrace each new day with positive energy and enthusiasm, stronger than ever!” 

For those looking to start a new career at one of the country’s best workplaces, Nugget Markets is now hiring with 120 job openings ranging from entry level roles to experienced chefs, bakers and more.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides highest-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a beautiful marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 16 locations: 13 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma.

For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work® review and FORTUNE review.

METHODOLOGY:

Great Place to Work determines the 100 Best Companies to Work For list using its proprietary For All methodology to evaluate and certify thousands of organizations in America’s largest ongoing annual workforce study, based on over 870,000 employee survey responses and data from companies representing more than 6.1 million employees, this year alone. 

The survey enables employees to share confidential quantitative and qualitative feedback about their organization’s culture by responding to 60 statements on a five-point scale and answering two open-ended questions. Collectively, these statements describe a great employee experience, defined by high levels of trust, respect, credibility, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. In addition, companies provide organizational data like size, location, industry, demographics, roles, and levels. 

Great Place to Work measures the differences in survey responses across demographic groups and roles within each organization to assess both the quality and consistency of the employee experience. Statements are weighted according to their relevance in describing the most important aspects of an equitable workplace. 

Each company also answers six essay questions that provide greater insight into how and why the organization is great for all people. Responses are rigorously evaluated and cross-reviewed according to Great Place to Work’s research-driven criteria. Survey data analysis and essay evaluation results are then factored into a combined score to compare and rank the companies that create the most consistently positive experience for all employees. Many companies survey every employee, far surpassing the minimum threshold of 5,000. While essay responses provide important context for rankings, only survey data can garner a list placement.

To be considered for the list, companies must be Great Place to Work-Certified™, have at least 1,000 US employees, and cannot be a government agency. Great Place to Work requires statistically significant survey results, reviews anomalies in responses, news, and financial performance, and investigates any employee reports of company incompliance with strict surveying rules to validate the integrity of the results and findings. Data is also normalized to compare companies fairly across sizes and industries.  

“Trust is everything,” explained Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets. “Though 2020 has been a very trying year in so many ways, we at Nugget Markets continue to rally through it together, finding—and often fighting for—the silver lining through every new challenge. When times are at their toughest, it provides us with an even greater opportunity to make a positive impact, and we are humbled to be a leader not just in our industry, but in our communities and for our associates, as well.”

Taking care of their team has always been a priority at Nugget Markets, which offers industry-leading wages, benefits, flexible work schedules and zero healthcare premiums for full and part-time associates. In regards to COVID-19, they were early adopters of rigorous cleaning and mask protocols. Nugget Markets was also one of the first companies in the nation to offer additional “thank you” bonus pay for associates, which has continued, uninterrupted, since March of last year, while many retailers quickly curtailed their bonus pay.

As an essential business, Nugget Markets attributes its success through these difficult times to its world-class team and unwavering culture of positivity, camaraderie and fun. Not only did the company maintain its record of never having a lay-off in its 95-year history, it also went on a hiring spree when the pandemic first started to help those who lost their jobs elsewhere. As a trendsetting grocer with gourmet and organic offerings created in-house and a new store in the family, Nugget Markets is consistently hiring a variety of positions ranging from entry level roles to experienced chefs, bakers, butchers, and more.

“Our associates inspire us every day with their can-do spirit, positivity and fun-loving mindset that is the essence of our family culture,” said Mary Muller, Director of Human Resources at Nugget Markets. “From new hires to veterans, our Nugget family is a unique blend of talent and diversity, and we are proud to have faced the challenges of the past year together, growing and strengthening the bonds that make our culture so special.”

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 13 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work® review and FORTUNE review.

METHODOLOGY:

People analytics firm Great Place to Work® surveyed over half a million employees on issues including how trustworthy, caring and fair the company is in times of crises; employees’ physical, emotional and financial health; and the company’s broader community impact. Analysis revealed strong links between positive employee opinions and how employees witnessed their senior leaders and direct managers during the crisis. Seventy-one percent of winning workplaces scored better than in pre-pandemic times, increasing employees’ experiences of workplace trust an average of three percentage points.

Particular attention was paid to how employees’ experiences varied depending on their job role, gender, race/ethnicity, payroll status, and other characteristics to ensure that the company is creating a great workplace for all.  

In a typical year, 75 percent of each company’s score is based on confidential employee feedback and 25 percent is based on our analysis of company’s essay questions describing their programs and practices. This year, we changed the essay question to focus on actions taken specifically in response to the challenges of 2020. We collected over 100 data points regarding each company’s employee demographics and HR programs and practices. We weighted 40 percent of this year’s score on how each company stepped up to support their people and communities, taking into account how significantly they were impacted by the pandemic; and 60 percent on employees’ confidential survey responses. 

Companies need to employ at least 1,000 US employees to be considered for the 100 Best Companies list, and at least 100,000 employees globally to be considered for the Best Big Companies to Work For list. Government agencies are not eligible.

Leading the new store in West Roseville will be store director, Angel Nolasco, a Roseville resident and long-time associate of the local company. “I'm extremely honored to work again in my own community and serve my wonderful neighbors,” he said. Originally from New York, Nolasco has been with Nugget Markets for nearly 30 years, most recently as store director at their West Sacramento location.

What makes up an extraordinary grocery experience? At Nugget Markets, it starts with providing world-class service and the highest quality food, which a visit to any of their departments will show. Their bakery, for instance, features scratch-made breads, authentic pastries and decadent desserts crafted with care by talented bakers. And just a few steps away, their coffee and juice bar offers an assortment of juices, smoothies and espresso drinks made to order.

In Nugget Markets’ kitchen, guests can find a wide selection of chef-prepared offerings made from scratch in store by trained chef teams using only the highest quality ingredients. And if you want to make it yourself, drop by their meat department for the highest quality meats and seafood, along with ready-to-cook entrées and sausages made in-store daily by talented butchers who are happy to help with custom cuts, special orders and more.

In their specialty cheese department, passionate cheesemongers hand-cut and wrap an array of artisan cheeses with a special focus on local and American artisan cheesemakers. And for perfect pairings, simply visit their adult beverage department, where guests can explore a vast array of fine wines, beers and spirits with the help of professional wine stewards.

The newest Nugget Markets will feature familiar elements from other stores, along with unique attributes like tractor art installations and a coffee bar window for outdoor pick-up. The new store was also built from the ground up with sustainability in mind, using reclaimed materials in construction, utilizing clean energy from a state-of-the-art Bloom Energy Server and employing a hybrid water tower that uses fewer gallons of water while cooling the building.

Similar to the other stores in Nugget Markets’ family, the new location will follow meticulous safety protocols and rigorous cleaning and sanitization practices to help protect their team, guests and community. Both associates and guests will be required to wear face coverings in the store, associates will have their temperatures taken before each shift, and dedicated senior shopping hours will take place every Tuesday and Thursday morning from opening until 8 a.m. for those who are 65 and older or have compromised immune systems.

Family owned and operated locally since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store that provides high-quality perishables, organics and a variety of local options, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. As a family-owned business, Nugget Markets is dedicated to taking care of its guests, associates and communities as a whole. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores will soon include 13 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma Valley.

“For years, we at Nugget Markets have been honored to help support the American Red Cross through thick and thin,” said Kate Stille, Chief Impact Officer at Nugget Markets. “We are truly blessed to live and work in such amazing and generous communities, and we’re humbled by this opportunity to partner with our guests to support our hurting neighbors and selfless heroes when they need it most.”

Nugget Markets and the American Red Cross have been longstanding partners in serving the needs of local communities during times of disaster. Along with the matching fund drive to support those affected by the wildfires in Northern California, Nugget Markets also recently sponsored the American Red Cross’ COVID-19 antibody testing initiative, which offers free antibody testing on all blood, platelet and plasma donations.

From wildfire and hurricane relief to the current battle against COVID-19, the American Red Cross makes it their mission to alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. Since July of this year, the organization has been offering much-needed support through shelter, meals and snacks, individual care, relief items and disaster workers.

To help support the American Red Cross’ wildfire relief efforts, those who wish to double the impact of their donation need only visit their local Nugget Markets. Donations will be accepted at check stands (no purchase required) and matched up to $25,000 through September 15, 2020; details of the donation will be printed on a receipt. Donations will be forwarded directly to the American Red Cross, and enable the organization to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters.

Family owned and operated locally since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store that provides high-quality perishables, organics and a variety of local options, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. As a family-owned business, Nugget Markets is dedicated to taking care of its guests, associates and communities as a whole. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma Valley.

Nugget Markets stores in West Sacramento, Davis and Vacaville receive weekly deliveries of hyperlocal produce which they offer in their produce department. Some of the produce has also been used in Nugget Markets’ kitchens for their chef-prepared dishes. This year, the company is hoping to offer this hyperlocal produce for an even longer season than before.

“The partnership with CLBL has been going strong the last few years,” said Jose Torres, Director of Produce at Nugget Markets. “Last year, we purchased from CLBL graduates, Ben and Debbie of California Stars Farm, along with graduate, Glen Baldwin of Six O’Clock Farm, who all farm in West Sacramento and did an amazing job. Having these small growers is great for the stores and for our community.”

The Lake Washington farm site Nugget Markets sponsors is just over 3.3 acres and home to three urban farm incubators: Bella Vida Farm, Wildgust Farm and California Stars Farm. Farming for more than six years, Ben Herston runs California Stars Farm and grows produce like winter squash and yams which Nugget Markets sources.

More than a decade strong, Nugget Markets and CLBL’s partnership not only supports local agriculture and up-and-coming farmers, but also helps communities build a closer connection with their food. To further support these valuable causes, Nugget Markets also made a significant contribution to CLBL’s Growing Our Future Campaign to help build their new headquarters in Woodland. 

“Nugget Markets has been one of our long-time supporters,” said Mary Kimball, Executive Director for the Center for Land-Based Learning, “and their continued belief in our beginning farmer program is a prime example to the food community that initiatives like ours and business can work together for the benefit everyone involved.”

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store with roots in Yolo County. The family of stores provides high-quality perishables, organics and a variety of local options, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma Valley.

“We have a strong culture of family and fun at the core of everything we do,” said Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets. “We come together as one family to create something very special and have fun with our guests and each other. As a company, we have three main goals: guest satisfaction, constant improvement and to be a world-class employer. I am so proud of our teams for making these goals become a reality—they aren’t just words on a wall, they’re what we live by.”

Dedicated to investing in their associates, Nugget Markets offers a variety of professional development opportunities including classes, field trips and college scholarships to help their team members reach their goals and grow in their career. Their company culture also focuses on positivity, camaraderie and fun with associate recognition, cash prizes and store-wide celebrations. They have never had a layoff in their 94-year history, and their industry-leading benefits include a 401k with company match, flexible work schedule and zero healthcare premiums for full and part-time associates.

With roughly 1,900 associates companywide, Nugget Markets is always looking to grow their world-class team. Entry level associates earn a minimum of $15 an hour with on-the-job training and opportunity for growth. As a specialty grocery store with gourmet offerings created in-house, Nugget Markets offers a variety of positions ranging from entry level roles to experienced chefs, bakers cheese specialists and more.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work review.

METHODOLOGY

To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Each company’s score is based on Trust Index survey feedback from a random sample of employees. People anonymously assess their workplace, including the quality of their leaders, support for their personal and professional lives, and their relationships with colleagues. Survey results are compared with peer organizations of like size and complexity and are highly reliable statistically. In addition, Great Place to Work scores a Culture Audit management questionnaire from each company, which reports details such as compensation and benefits, hiring practices, recognition, training, and diversity programs.

Coupling carry-out convenience with fine dining quality, Nugget Markets’ holiday meals are made to order by talented chefs with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From fully cooked entrées to sides made from scratch, these gourmet meals offer dinner by design without the mess or the stress.

“Every year, we have more and more people taking advantage of our chef-prepared holiday meal options,” said Stazi Dulman, executive chef at Nugget Markets. “Quality is something you can hang your hat on here, and our guests know that. It’s like having your own personal chef!”

Family owned and operated locally, Nugget Markets has been offering chef-prepared holiday meals since 2004 with new additions each year. This year, guests can choose from Contemporary, Traditional, Hanukkah and Vegan meals with customizable sizes, sides and a variety of à la carte options.

Nugget Markets will start accepting holiday meal orders on October 21, 2019 for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and on December 2, 2019 for Hanukkah. The last days to order will be November 22, 2019 for Thanksgiving, and December 19, 2019 for Christmas and Hanukkah.

Learn more and place your order at nuggetmarket.com/holiday.

“Nugget Markets has always been dedicated to supporting new and local farmers,” said Jose Torres, Director of Produce at Nugget Markets. “It’s an honor to be able to support farmers who are just starting out, while also offering our guests the freshest produce from farms that are literally just around the corner.”

Nugget Markets’ West Sacramento location has been offering seasonal produce from the West Sacramento Urban Farms since 2017. The store receives weekly deliveries throughout the spring, summer and fall, with an increasing volume of purchases each year as farmers improve their production skills. Some of the produce sourced from the farms includes heirloom and slicer tomatoes, butternut and spaghetti squash, watermelons, sweet potatoes and more.

“A huge hurdle for beginning farmers is accessing market opportunities. Nugget Markets’ enthusiasm for working with beginning farmers operating small scale farms is incredibly unique and exciting,” said Sara Bernal, Program Manager of the West Sacramento Urban Farm Program. “Being able to see produce grown in the exact community it is being sold in is extremely rare. Farmers benefit by learning the ins and outs of wholesale marketing and customers benefit by getting vine-ripened produce grown less than a mile from their store.”

The partnership between Nugget Markets and CLBL is the latest in a long line of joint efforts to support local agriculture, in a relationship more than a decade strong. The California Farm Academy is just one of many programs that further CLBL’s mission to cultivate opportunity for youth, agriculture, business and the environment. Since Nugget Markets is dedicated to supporting local farmers, agricultural preservation and youth and education, their partnership for CLBL’s various programs and events is a natural fit.

“Nugget Markets has been one of our long-time supporters,” said Mary Kimball, Executive Director for the Center for Land-Based Learning, “and their continued belief in our beginning farmer program is a prime example to the food community that initiatives like ours and business can work together for the benefit everyone involved.”

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store with roots in Yolo County. The family of stores provides high-quality perishables, organics and a variety of local options, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma Valley.

“It’s our honor to support Yolo Food Bank and the vital work they do in our community,” said Kate Stille, Chief Impact Officer at Nugget Markets. “We share the same values of feeding our communities and serving those in need, and this new facility is a great investment in the future of food security in our area. Nugget Markets has been a long-time partner of Yolo Food Bank and we’re happy to be part of their next chapter of growth.”

Yolo Food Bank spent almost 20 years at their previous facility before moving down the road in March of this year. The new food bank is 300% larger with 400% more cool storage space. Currently, Yolo Food Bank collects, stores and distributes roughly 4 million pounds of food per year via direct distribution programs, such as “Eat Well Yolo” and “Kids Farmers Market,” as well as to 70 local nonprofits, mainly serving working families. With the help of their new facility, the food bank hopes to provide 50% more food this fiscal year, for a total of six million pounds distributed.

“Yolo Food Bank is an essential part of the social safety net,” said Joy Cohan, Director of Philanthropic Engagement at Yolo Food Bank. “We’re a hub for food closets, senior meal delivery programs, college campuses and other nonprofits aligned to address food insecurity. Our work honors the investment in and fulfills the promise of what this building was constructed to do, and it makes partnerships like those with Nugget Markets so heartening and important in taking our work forward.”

Nugget Markets’ partnership with Yolo Food Bank extends back more than 25 years and has included food drives, volunteer support, food donations and financial contributions to help the food bank’s mission of ending hunger and malnutrition in Yolo County. Nugget Markets associates are also helping prepare for the Grand Opening by restocking shelves in the warehouse and making decorative produce baskets for the stage.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a family of full-line grocery stores dedicated to creating an extraordinary grocery experience. The company is committed to supporting local causes and nonprofits with a special focus on health, wellness and nutrition education; elder care and support of those in need; education and youth; sustainability and agricultural preservation; and public safety (law enforcement and fire). Founded in Woodland, the Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores now includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma.

“It’s truly an honor to have our family business recognized as one of the nation’s top workplaces for the last 14 years,” said Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets. “Family and fun have always been two of our core values, especially when it comes to our amazing associates as they’re the ones who make Nugget Markets the company it is today.”

Dedicated to investing in their associates, Nugget Markets offers a variety of professional development opportunities including classes, field trips and college scholarships to help their team members reach their goals and grow in their career. Their company culture also focuses on positivity, camaraderie and fun with associate recognition, cash prizes and store-wide celebrations. They have never had a layoff in their 93-year history, and their industry-leading benefits include a 401k with company match, flexible work schedule and zero healthcare premiums for full and part-time associates.

With roughly 1,900 associates companywide, Nugget Markets is always looking to grow their world-class team. Entry level associates earn a minimum of $15 an hour with on-the-job training and opportunity for growth. As a specialty grocery store with gourmet offerings created in-house, Nugget Markets offers a variety of positions ranging from entry level roles to experienced chefs, bakers cheese specialists and more.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market in Sonoma. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work review.

METHODOLOGY

To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Each company’s score is based on Trust Index survey feedback from a random sample of employees. People anonymously assess their workplace, including the quality of their leaders, support for their personal and professional lives, and their relationships with colleagues. Survey results are compared with peer organizations of like size and complexity and are highly reliable statistically. In addition, Great Place to Work scores a Culture Audit management questionnaire from each company, which reports details such as compensation and benefits, hiring practices, recognition, training, and diversity programs.

###

“The dynamic personalities and talents of our associates and leadership create our spirited culture of family and fun, and by extension, provide our guests an extraordinary grocery experience,” said Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets. “We’re proud of our unique and diverse culture, and honored to be ranked among the best in the country.”

With roughly 1,900 associates companywide (a 5% increase in the past year), 28% of Nugget Markets’ new hires were referred by current associates in the past 12 months—further demonstrating the love that associates have for their company. As a specialty grocery store with gourmet offerings created in-house, Nugget Markets has a variety of positions ranging from entry level roles to experienced chefs and bakers, and is always looking to grow their world-class team.

Dedicated to investing in their associates, Nugget Markets offers a variety of professional development opportunities to help their team members reach their goals and grow in their career, along with fun celebrations and events like a companywide whitewater rafting trip. Their industry-leading benefits include a 401k with company match, flexible work schedule and zero healthcare premiums for full and part-time associates, and they’ve never had a layoff in their 90-year history.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less in Woodland and Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market in the Sonoma Valley. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work review.

METHODOLOGY

To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Each company’s score is based on Trust Index survey feedback from a random sample of employees. People anonymously assess their workplace, including the quality of their leaders, support for their personal and professional lives, and their relationships with colleagues. Survey results are compared with peer organizations of like size and complexity and are highly reliable statistically. In addition, Great Place to Work scores a Culture Audit management questionnaire from each company, which reports details such as compensation and benefits, hiring practices, recognition, training, and diversity programs.

Children and adults alike are welcome to enjoy the view from the top deck as they drop off their food donations. Donors will also be invited to spin the wheel to win a prize provided by Unitrans and Nugget Markets. Plus, the first 50 donors will receive a free Nugget Markets canvas bag along with a free 10-ride Unitrans ticket.

All donations received will be delivered to the Yolo County Food Bank and the UC Davis Food Pantry to assist those in need in our local communities. Needed foods include canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned meat, low-sugar cereal, peanut butter, whole grain pasta, rice, canned or dry beans, 100% fruit juice and shelf-stable milk.

Unitrans, the public transit service for the City of Davis and UC Davis, operates the red double decker buses and has served the Davis community for almost 50 years. Nugget Markets, a family-owned-and-operated grocery store with roots in Yolo County, has provided high-quality, local, organic, specialty and conventional goods to the Davis community since 2000.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand our services into the West Roseville community,” Stille said. “We believe the expansion into the Campus Oaks development will be a perfect fit for both the community and our company.”

The Campus Oaks development will become West Roseville’s “new downtown,” housing a number of boutique retail shops, restaurants, a health club and a number of other services. An early education center will reside on the backside of the development.

Doug Kyle, President of Armstrong Development, and his team are responsible for vetting the diverse services that will occupy the center. Leasing activity was unveiled at the ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) convention in Los Angeles in early October. Leasing activity has been brisk and details will be announced in the very near future.

“The Center for Land-Based Learning has always celebrated our region’s agricultural heritage at Dinner on the Farm,” said Mary Kimball, Executive Director of CLBL. "The majority of the produce comes from the beginning farmers in our farm business incubator program. It’s a chance for us to highlight what they are doing and celebrate their success.”

While sourcing local produce and protein is a hallmark of this event, the menu changes every year to reflect what’s locally available and in season. This year, Nugget Markets’ executive chef, Stazi Dulman, crafted the gourmet, multi-course menu featuring fresh seasonal dishes like grilled eggplant “caviar” crostini, chilled melon soup, grilled marinated leg of lamb and a seasonal berry trifle. Dulman will also lend his culinary talent in leading the preparation of the feast at the event. Additionally, the white tablecloth dinner for 200 guests will feature local wines, beer and custom cocktails.

“Nugget Markets is proud to partner with the Center for Land-Based Learning to present this fantastic event and support the nonprofit as a whole,” said Kate Stille, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Nugget Markets. “Part of our key focus at Nugget Markets is to support those who produce the food that we then share with our guests, and this is a great way to do it.”

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store with roots in Yolo County. The family of stores provides high-quality perishables, organics and a variety of local options, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market in Sonoma Valley.

Nugget Markets’ partnership with CLBL has extended for more than a decade, including a variety of event sponsorships and support for local urban farms. These and other programs help further CLBL’s mission to cultivate opportunity for the land, environment, youth, business and the future of agriculture through supporting beginning farmers and ranchers, and educating youth and exposing them to careers in agriculture and environmental science.

Dinner on the Farm is one of two annual fundraiser dinners that benefit CLBL and its many educational programs. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.landbasedlearning.org/dinner/dotf-events.

“Our associates make all the difference,” said CEO and President, Eric Stille. “At Nugget Markets, it’s not just a job. Our environment is like a family that has fun, and we all come together to create something very special.”

Now in its 90th year, Nugget Markets has built a strong reputation for extraordinary quality and service, both within the community and its own walls. In one of the anonymous surveys that went into this year’s ranking, an associate likened Nugget Markets to “the Disneyland of grocery stores,” where managers feel like "just another friend at work."

Along with a fun, family culture, generous benefits have helped earn Nugget Markets a place on FORTUNE’s list for more than a decade. The industry-leading benefits include a 4% 401k match and zero health premiums for full and part-time associates. In addition, the company has never had a layoff in its 90-year history. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work review.

Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and their most recent additions, Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market in the Sonoma Valley.

METHODOLOGY

To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Each company’s score is based on Trust Index survey feedback from a random sample of employees. People anonymously assess their workplace, including the quality of their leaders, support for their personal and professional lives, and their relationships with colleagues. Survey results are compared with peer organizations of like size and complexity and are highly reliable statistically. In addition, Great Place to Work scores a Culture Audit management questionnaire from each company, which reports details such as compensation and benefits, hiring practices, recognition, training, and diversity programs.

To commemorate 90 years of partnering with and supporting the local community, Nugget Markets is hosting a series of Local Love Fairs at select stores. These demo fairs, held throughout the months of September and October, allow guests to meet local vendors, sample products and celebrate 90 years of extraordinary.

Guests also have a chance to win big through several commemorative sweepstakes. In stores, guests can enter a drawing to win an Electra Loft 7D Bicycle, a $90 Nugget Markets gift card and a bag of Fresh to Market groceries (Nugget Markets’ store brand). Online, guests can enter separate sweepstakes for gift cards, reusable bags and groceries through Facebook and Instagram. Full contest details are available at nuggetmarket.com/contests.

Within the company, associates had the chance to join the fun and win cash prizes by sharing favorite Nugget Markets memories and participating in storewide flash mobs. Each of Nugget Market, Inc.’s 16 stores were encouraged to choreograph their very own Flash Mob Dance Party, to be performed for guests in store during September.

“It’s the passion and energy that our talented associates bring to work each day that has made it possible for this company to successfully hit this 90th milestone. I’m proud of our associates and leadership team,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc. “and sincerely thank them, our vendors and neighborhood communities for their support throughout the years.”

Along with offering unparalleled quality, selection and service to guests, Nugget Markets has been dedicated to serving its communities since the very beginning. A special series of articles on Nugget Markets’ Daily Dish blog highlights just a few of the company’s many community partnerships through the years, supporting causes such as youth and education, nutrition, local agriculture, public safety and sustainability.

Built on a foundation of quality, innovation, respect, hard work and fun, the Nugget Markets team is proud to celebrate 90 years in Northern California and looks forward to many more years to come.

This year Yolo Farm to Fork and Nugget Markets awarded garden grants to five schools throughout Yolo County. The Nugget Markets grant recipients for 2016 are Marguerite Montgomery Elementary in Davis, Tafoya and Whitehead Elementary Schools in Woodland, and White Oaks and Riverbank Elementary Schools in West Sacramento.

Through the competitive grant process, these schools successfully demonstrated new and creative educational experiences through the garden program, offering a wide range of hands-on learning activities that incorporate different subjects and classes. Each school presented a unique and clear vision for their garden’s future and plans for its long-term sustainability.

Nugget Markets has committed to this grant effort to support and enrich local students through garden-based learning. “Yolo Farm to Fork and the children of Yolo County are lucky to have Nugget Markets’ continued support,” said Suzanne Falzone, Board President of Yolo Farm to Fork. “Nugget Markets recognizes the importance of garden-based learning in our schools, and the value it has to education and whole child enrichment.”

Locally family-owned and devoted to community since the first Nugget Market opened in 1926, Nugget Markets also remains committed to offering quality products and to supporting local area farmers, producers and local neighborhoods. For more information, visit www.nuggetmarket.com.

Yolo Farm to Fork, is a nonprofit dedicated to bringing locally grown farm-fresh food to school lunches, establishing recycling programs, supporting school and community gardens and helping Yolo County residents get to know where their food comes from and the farmers who grow it. For more information, visit www.yolofarmtofork.org.

Woodland, CA (March 3, 2016) – For the eleventh consecutive year, local family-owned and operated grocer, Nugget Market, has been named on FORTUNE Magazine’s national listing of the “100 Best Companies to Work For”. Nugget Market ranks #13 amongst the country’s top 100 companies.

“Creating a happy workplace is key to providing our communities with an extraordinary grocery experience”, say CEO and President, Eric Stille. “Our associates bring positive energy and enthusiasm to work, and our leaders work hard to provide an environment where all associates are respected, appreciated, and valued everyday. Collectively, we’ve built a dynamic, family-like culture that has been recognized again by FORTUNE Magazine and the Great Place to Work Institute, and we’re extremely grateful for the recognition.”

FORTUNE Magazine has noted, “With a culture built on a positive, fun-loving team atmosphere, this family-owned grocery company offers its employees industry-leading wages and healthcare benefits, including 100% company-paid premiums. To qualify, employees are only required to work 22 hours a week. The company has taken their employees snowmobiling and whitewater rafting, and celebrations are an integral part of Nugget’s culture, including everyday recognitions for jobs well done and multiple annual parties at stores. It’s a testament to the company that during its 90-year history, Nugget has never had a single layoff.”

For more information read the Great Place to Work review.

Nugget Market is a family-owned and operated grocery chain offering Northern California a unique, down-home yet progressive shopping experience that focuses on natural, organic and local products displayed alongside conventional and ethnic items.

Celebrating their ninetieth anniversary, Nugget Market has nine Nugget Markets in the Sacramento Valley, three Nugget Markets in Marin County, one Fork Lift by Nugget Markets and two Food 4 Less stores. Later this month Nugget Markets will acquire Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market in the Sonoma Valley.

METHODOLOGY 

To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Two-thirds of a company’s survey score is based on the results of the Trust Index Employee Survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. This survey asks questions related to employees’ attitudes about management’s credibility, overall job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third is based on responses to the Culture Audit, which includes detailed questions about pay and benefit programs and a series of open-ended questions about hiring practices, methods of internal communication, training, recognition programs, and diversity efforts. 

Family-owned and operated, Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market offer the Sonoma community homegrown personal service, high-quality prepared foods and perishables, and a commitment to local growers, producers and their community. Recently recognized as “Best Grocery Store” and “Best Customer Service” by the Sonoma Index Tribune’s People’s Awards, this small grocery chain is a true Sonoma Valley destination that fosters and shares the same values and philosophies as Nugget Markets.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be given the opportunity to acquire Sonoma and Glen Ellen Village Markets,” Stille said. “Co-owners Don Shone and Dale Downing, and their entire team have built a fabulous brand. Our Core Values align nicely and I see both brands growing stronger with this acquisition!”

Shone and Downing agree Nugget Markets’ good standing with its community, associates and guests played a large part in their decision. “A big factor in deciding to sell to the Nugget Markets and the Stille family is their dedication and commitment to their employees and customers. Though we have been sought after by many companies over the years, only now do we feel we have the perfect fit for our market family,” Shone said. “Dale and I can rest assured that our employees, who have helped build this company and are loved by the community, will be well taken care of.”

 “We’re so proud of Gerald and Anthony,” says Eric Stille, president and CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc. “These hardworking gentlemen, with their strong work ethic and commitment to their education, will no doubt be successful in their chosen career paths.”

Shearman is currently working on a bachelor’s degree in biblical and theological studies, and he plans to go into church ministry. Future goals include acquiring his doctorate in the same field.   A graduate of John F. Kennedy High School in Sacramento, Wong will attend UC Berkeley with plans to major in economics and ultimately attend graduate school.

Two Eugene and Joan Stille Educational Scholarships ($1,000 each) are available to high school seniors or undergraduate students employed by Nugget Markets, Food 4 Less or Fork Lift by Nugget Markets or to a student who is a dependent of an associate. Dependents of Nugget Markets, Food 4 Less or Fork Lift executives, store directors and corporate directors are not eligible and only one recipient per family is awarded.

Thanks to Nugget Markets’ associate responses, the local, family-owned-and-operated grocer has ranked #26 on FORTUNE Magazine’s 2015 national list of “100 Best Companies to Work For” marking a 10-year milestone.

“Our company’s success is fueled by every associate’s passion and commitment to providing outstanding guest service and quality products. Together with my family and leadership team, I thank every associate and leader within the company for creating a dynamic, family-friendly work environment that supports the health and well-being of every associate’s professional and personal life,” says Eric Stille, CEO and president of Nugget Markets.

Over the past 10 years, associates have consistently expressed that they are welcomed and embraced by the real “family” feel at Nugget Markets, where fun and a positive attitude are built into the everyday culture.

“Everyone here is a family and a team. I love coming to work and being able to have so much fun while on the job,” quotes an anonymous associate on FORTUNE’s Great Rated site.

“The fun factor and positive attitude brought to work by every associate provides the basis of our energetic culture. Each associate’s attitude and eagerness to have fun on the job translates into a unique shopping experience for our guests. Encouraging our extended family to enjoy their time at work naturally creates a win-win for everyone; associates and guests alike,” says Stille.

For more information, contact Nugget Markets COO Chris Carpenter at (530) 304-5803.

Nugget Markets is a family owned and operated grocery chain serving the greater Sacramento Valley since 1926 with nine Nugget Markets, one Fork Lift by Nugget Markets and two Food 4 Less stores. Later this month, Nugget Markets will acquire three stores in Marin County.

Methodology:
FORTUNE Magazine partners annually with Great Place to Work® to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America to identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For ®. Two-thirds of a company's survey score is based on the results of the Trust Index © Employee Survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. This survey asks questions related to employees' attitudes about management's credibility, overall job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third is based on responses to the Culture Audit ©, which includes detailed questionnaires about pay and benefit programs and a series of open-ended questions about hiring practices, methods of internal communication, training, recognition programs and diversity efforts.

Paradise Foods’ three neighborhood markets offer an extensive selection of natural, organic and local products, as well as a full line of prepared foods that include modern trend dishes and Old World classic favorites. Paradise Foods also offers full-service catering. Serving the Marin County for 14 years, Paradise Foods is a strong community supporter.

“I am thrilled to have found a solid retailer (Nugget Markets) that will continue to offer my employees a dynamic culture and a secure work environment, while maintaining a strong focus on quality perishables, local and organic groceries, and our community,” says David Gilmour, owner of Paradise Foods.

Nugget Markets was founded 88 years ago by the grandfather and great-grandfather of today’s CEO/President, Eric Stille. Nugget Markets offers a unique down-home yet progressive shopping experience that focuses on natural, organic and local products that are displayed alongside conventional and ethnic items, offering the best of all worlds. Nugget Markets is known regionally for its high quality perishables – produce, meat and seafood, bakery, specialty cheese and delicatessen offerings.

Eric Stille is ecstatic about the opportunity to acquire Paradise Foods. “We’ve been looking to expand into the Marin community for a number of years and when David approached us, I knew it was a perfect fit. Paradise Foods and Nugget Markets share similar goals and values, and we both have built our businesses on quality, selection and service,” says Stille.

Nugget Markets has occupied a place on FORTUNE Magazine’s list of “100 Best Companies to Work For” for nine consecutive years and Stille attributes the honor to Nugget’s dedicated associates, leaders and loyal guests. One step inside any Nugget Market, and you’ll immediately sense each associate’s up-beat energy, positive outlook and dedication to world-class service.

“It’s been a pleasure to serve and support Marin County for the past 14 years,” says Gilmour. I thank my friends and the Marin community for supporting my business, Paradise Foods, and welcome Eric and the Nugget Markets family to Marin County.” With the sale of Paradise Foods, Gilmour will be turning his energy toward establishing the Marin office for Awareness Foundation America.

Nugget Markets currently operates nine Nugget Markets in the greater Sacramento Valley along with two Food 4 Less stores in Woodland and Vallejo, and one Fork Lift by Nugget Markets store in Cameron Park.

Managing principal and attorney Mitchell Ostwald describes the partnership with Nugget Markets as “a great benefit for Series subscribers. Nugget is a local, family-owned business known for its exceptional service, huge selection, high quality, and beautiful displays of meat, produce and deli items. Last season Nugget created a stunning food display in the theater, and we are excited for their upcoming efforts at the Alice Waters event.” 

Celebrating its 10th anniversary season, Sacramento Speakers Series offers an impressive list of leaders, authors, scientists, and visionaries, each chosen on the basis of career achievements, unique expertise in a particular field of endeavor, and ability to communicate their particular passion to the audience. The Sacramento Speakers Series is a community lecture series that providesan open forum for a free discussion of timely and important issues by nationally acclaimed speakers. Ostwald described the series as “an extraordinary community experience that gives our patrons an opportunity to hear about and question renowned and influential people from a wide variety of backgrounds on an even wider variety of topics.”

 WHERE:        

Sacramento Community Center Theater, 1301 ‘L’ Street, Sacramento CAMemorial Auditorium, 1515 J Street, Sacramento, CA

PRESENTER: Sacramento Speakers Series

TICKETS:  Sold online at www.sacramentospeakers.com or by phone 916-388-1100

The ACS Certified Cheese Professional exam is the first and only exam of its kind and was established by the American Cheese Society to encourage high standards of comprehensive cheese knowledge and professional service. The exam tests participants on their knowledge and skills required to successfully perform cheese-related tasks in jobs throughout the industry. The broad range of testing topics encompass raw ingredients, the cheese-making process, storing and handling cheese, selecting distributors, marketing and communicating information about cheese, nutrition, regulations, and sanitation.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled for Rebekah, Jeremy, and Reed on passing this challenging exam with flying colors,” said Eric Stille, Nugget Markets president and CEO. “Their dedication, professionalism, and expertise in their field are evident in this fine achievement.”    

All ACS Certified Cheese Professionals ™ are required to demonstrate continued active participation and professional development within the industry to maintain their credentials and they must recertify every three years.  With 61% passing rate this year, there are 52 CCPs in California and 406 globally.