Smart & Final Debuts Private Label Charitable Giving Program

Smart & Final has launched a new giving campaign which donates the first 1 percent of its net profits of its First Street private label brand products to its Charitable Foundation.

Dubbed "First Street First Percent," the Commerce, Calif.-based regional retailer is backing the program throughout its stores with informational signage while showcasing to customers how their purchases of First Street products can benefit local communities.

Noting the 276-store company's long history of giving back to the communities it serves, Smart & Final CEO Dave Hirz said the program takes "our community commitment to the next level."

First Street, Smart & Final's flagship private label brand, features more than 2,000 products and represents more than 23 percent of Smart & Final's total sales. Customers can find First Street products across most categories throughout the store, from grocery, frozen and dairy to packaging and cleaning products.

"Now when customers buy First Street products, our premier private label brand, they will be giving back to local communities through our Smart & Final Charitable Foundation," added Hirz. "Buying First Street products will mean better playgrounds, more music in schools, more new uniforms and more meals for friends and neighbors in need."

Through the Smart & Final Charitable Foundation, funds generated will support local nonprofits, such as food pantries, Little Leagues, Boys & Girls Clubs, the American Heart Association, Special Olympics, Olive Crest and local schools, among others.

Throughout the years, the Smart & Final Charitable Foundation has donated millions of dollars to causes and organizations focused on four key areas: health and wellness education; hunger relief; team sports; and youth development.

The value-oriented food and everyday staples chain operates 276 grocery and foodservice stores under the Smart & Final, Smart & Final Extra! and Cash & Carry Smart Foodservice banners in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada and Idaho. It also operates an additional 15 stores in northern Mexico through a joint venture.