GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The ways in which we as an industry engage with young minds is crucial. They’re the future of fresh in every respect, and companies are utilizing unique strategies to introduce them to a potential career in retail. SpartanNash recently announced a partnership with youth education nonprofit Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes (JAMGL) to support JA Finance Park®.

“Financial independence and career exploration are two of the most important skills we can teach young people—and grocery is an essential industry with many admirable career paths across supply chain, retail, transportation, and corporate job functions,” said SpartanNash Chief Executive Officer Tony Sarsam. “Our new partnership with JA of the Michigan Great Lakes aligns with SpartanNash’s mission to deliver the ingredients for a better life, including the careers that make a better life possible.”

JA Finance Park is the organization’s capstone program for financial planning and career exploration. According to a press release, during the Family Fare activation, students will have an immersive, real-life experience and choose from a wide range of careers, including cashier, supply chain forklift operator, corporate associate, and more.

Students will also learn how to create a monthly budget based on their career and family scenario, then plan their grocery purchases in accordance with that budget.

SpartanNash’s five-year commitment to JAMGL will include ongoing financial support and associate volunteer opportunities.

As we continue to see concerns for labor and talent across the industry, we’ll report on potential solutions here at ANUK.

SpartanNash