5 Extra Benefits of Partnering With Vendors That Give Back

Let’s state the obvious: Working with vendors that give back just feels good. If you’re an office manager or head of HR, you probably feel like dancing when you find a vendor that fits your needs, falls into your budget, and supports causes or communities your company cares about. Of course, identifying partners that check all three of these boxes isn’t always easy. 

If you’re on a tight budget, you might be asked to justify choosing a mission-minded vendor if their services cost a little more than other options. Luckily, there are extra benefits to working with vendors who share your values. Pointing to them might tip the scales in favor of your choice!

Here are five extra benefits to consider. 

#1 Top-Notch Service

Many employees of mission-minded companies are passionate about what they do, and it shows in the tone of their phone calls and the speed with which they help you. According to a 2020 report, “purpose-driven companies” have 40% higher employee retention than their peers. Their workers are also more innovative, productive, and satisfied with their jobs. This can lead to top-notch customer service! 

Here’s a note we received from a FruitGuys customer that shows this kind of passion in action:

“The FruitGuys also offers a deep level of customer service, allowing us to go the extra mile. They’re quick to respond and resolve problems, never wavering in smiles and fun!” 

–Katy Klefecker, Community Manager, Common Desk

Choosing to work with vendors that give back can make your customer service experience more time-saving, stress-relieving, and perhaps even fun. 

#2 Enhanced Customer Loyalty

A 2022 survey found customers feel more loyal to brands that share their values, and working with mission-minded vendors is a great way to show where you stand. The environment and social justice were two of clients’ top 5 concerns in 2023, so consider looking for vendors that give back in those areas. Then, highlight those partnerships.

If you’re not sure where to find vendors that prioritize people and the planet, B Lab’s database of B Corp Certified companies is a great place to start. Companies have to demonstrate “high social and environmental performance” to become B Corp Certified, and B Lab holds them to a high standard. (You can read about The FruitGuy’s B Corp Certification here.) We worked with several fellow B Corps, including Steeped Coffee and Teatulia, to stock our 2023 holiday gift baskets. 

#3 Better Employee Retention

Just like your clients, your employees are paying close attention to your company’s values and ethics. A full 8 in 10 employees want to work for companies that share their values, according to a 2023 survey, so they’ll probably appreciate seeing you partner with vendors who give back. 

To make sure the companies you work with deliver this benefit, consider polling your employees about the issues they care about most. If you discover they’re passionate about hunger relief, sustainability, or animal welfare, you can look for vendors with matching missions. It’s a win-win-win for everyone involved. 

#4 Community Connection

Some mission-minded companies will offer you opportunities to connect with your local community, which can raise awareness of your brand and boost its reputation. Patagonia, for example, doesn’t just offer branded apparel; It can also connect you with volunteer opportunities at local environmental organizations.

Here at The FruitGuys, we help our customers connect with their communities through initiatives like our Donate-a-Crate Program.

When their offices close for holidays or other occasions, FruitGuys customers can forward their deliveries to a local hunger relief partner, or a charity of their choosing. Some companies donate to the same charities each season while others spread the fruit love around to different organizations.

#5 More Feel-Good Moments 

Integrating mission-minded vendors into your daily routine can provide feel-good moments that make tasks like ordering your office snacks more purposeful. Maybe you’ll learn about a regional farm growing your fruit while you’re unpacking the fruit box or the sustainability milestones of a snack producer. These small wins can have a big impact on not only your team’s mood, but yours too. 

So, what are you waiting for? Do yourself a favor and give those vendors who give back a second look. If you’d like to enhance your snack program this quarter, you can start by reaching out to us.