Woodland, Calif. – For the 7th consecutive year, local family-owned-and-operated Nugget Market, Inc. has once again made FORTUNE Magazine’s listing of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” in the nation. Nugget Markets ranks #34 among the country’s top 100 companies.

“I am proud and honored to be ranked among the best of America’s top ‘100 Companies to Work For,’” says Eric Stille, CEO and President of Nugget Market, Inc. “I credit the achievements of our leadership team and all associates who work hard every day to uphold the core values that make this company what it is today.”

Leaders lead by example, creating a culture that focuses on integrity, a positive attitude, and always respecting, appreciating and valuing everyone, whether it is a fellow associate or guest. Nugget’s associates bring a positive energy and enthusiasm to work that creates a fun, family-like environment. “Creating a happy workplace is key to providing our shoppers with a pleasant grocery shopping experience,” says Stille.

Nugget Market is recognized for its competitive and entrepreneurial spirit, as well as the servant leadership mindset that has guided the company since it was founded in 1926. “If you turn a standard organizational chart upside down, you have an inverted pyramid with the executive team at the bottom tier. The store directors and department managers then support associates at the top who ultimately create our exceptional guest experience, which is our number-one goal,” says Stille. “It is this mindset that helps us deliver outstanding service and support to our associates, as well as our guests.”

In addition to providing a unique work environment, Nugget offers its associates a strong benefits package – free health insurance, industry-leading wages and a 10% discount on groceries. Fostering a strong sense of job security, Nugget has never had a layoff in its 85 years. And, Nugget’s servant leadership mindset fosters a strong work-life balance for all associates at all levels.

Nugget Market, Inc. has been family owned and operated since 1926 and has nine Northern California locations in Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills and Vacaville. The company’s three Food 4 Less stores are located in Vallejo, Cameron Park, and Woodland.

To pick the 100 Best Companies to Work For, Fortune partners with the Great Place to Work Institute to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America; 280 firms participated in this year’s survey. More than 246,000 employees at those companies responded to a survey created by the institute, a global research and consulting firm operating in 45 countries around the world. Two-thirds of a company’s score is based on the results of the institute’s Trust Index survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. The survey asks questions related to their attitudes about management’s credibility, job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third is based on responses to the institute’s 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. After evaluations are completed, if news about a company comes to light that may significantly damage employees’ faith in management, we may exclude it from the list. Any company that is at least five years old and has more than 1,000 U.S. employees is eligible. For information on how to apply, visit www.greatplacetowork.com.

West Sacramento Nugget Markets guest wins big in local grocer’s giveaway in celebration of Nugget’s 85th Anniversary

Woodland, CA -  Woodland-based Nugget Markets $8,500 Gift Card Giveaway contest has made one West Sacramento shopper extremely happy.  Keona Noble submitted one entry form during the Nugget Markets giveaway contest, and her entry form was the winner, randomly selected from more than 30,000 submitted entries both on-line and at each Nugget Market.

In celebration of Nugget Markets 85th anniversary, the locally family-owned and operated company held the gift card contest from September 28 through December 28th, 2011, and Noble’s winning entry form was selected on January 1, 2012.

“Nugget in West Sacramento is my favorite grocery store!” says Noble.  “Everyone is so welcoming every time I visit, and I even know most of the associates on a first-name basis.  I love Nugget Market!”

John Sullivan, store director of the West Sacramento Nugget Market, was thrilled to hear the news that a frequent West Sacramento guest was the $8,500 gift card winner. “What a pleasure it is to serve the West Sacramento community, and all of us at the store are beyond excited to know that ‘one of our own’ was the lucky winning guest!” said Sullivan.

Known for quality products, competitive prices, and dedication to its associates and local communities, Nugget Markets has been a Northern California grocery presence since the first Nugget opened its doors in 1926.  The company currently has stores in Woodland, El Dorado Hills, Elk Grove, Roseville, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Vacaville, and two stores in Davis.  www.nuggetmarket.com . 

Local grocer Nugget Markets hosts the Pat & Tom Show live broadcasts, remotes and partners with the community for food bank donations

Woodland, CA -  Family-owned and operated Nugget Markets is joining with KNCI’s radio personalities Pat and Tom to raise awareness and collect non-perishable food donations for local food banks December 8 through December 18 at Nugget Markets.   Guests can donate suggested items such as canned goods, boxed food items and foil bake ware at the following locations, benefiting each store’s local food bank: Roseville (Placer Food Bank), Woodland and Davis (Food Bank of Yolo County), El Dorado Hills (Food Bank of El Dorado County), Sacramento/Florin Rd. (River City Food Bank), West Sacramento (Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services), and Elk Grove (Elk Grove Food Bank Services).

In addition to providing collection bins for the 10-day donation drive, Nugget Markets in Roseville and West Sacramento will host live broadcasts of the Pat and Tom Show.  On December 9, the show will be broadcast from the Roseville Nugget (771 Pleasant Grove Blvd.) and on December 16 from the West Sacramento Nugget (2000 Town Center Plaza.).  Guests who donate during the 5am – 10am live broadcasts will receive complimentary coffee and bagels, while supplies last.

Select Nugget Markets will also host 1-hour KNCI remotes, and guests who donate during the designated time will receive a Nugget cookie and water (while supplies last) for their donation.  Remotes are scheduled for 12 pm - 1pm at the following locations: El Dorado Hills (December 12), Florin Road (December 13) and Davis-Covell (December 14).  The Elk Grove Nugget will host a remote from 3pm – 4pm on Thursday, December 15. 

“We partnered with Pat and Tom for a very successful Thanksgiving food drive and we’re so excited to join with them again and with our generous guests to help feed the hungry this holiday season,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc.

WOODLAND, Calif. (December 2, 2011) – SunFed Organic Beef, a certified-organic, grass-fed and grass-finished beef, is now available at Nugget Market stores.

SunFed Organic Beef is comprised of members of three families with deep roots in ranching in Northern California. The families share a commitment to grow the highest quality organic, grass-fed beef possible to sustain the land, their cattle and their ranching businesses for the long term.

“Each of our families has been raising cattle in Northern California for well over 100 years. We are proud of this heritage and the efforts we are undertaking to partner with Nugget Markets to bring our California-raised beef to a local retailer,” said Matt Byrne, one of the founding SunFed Beef ranchers. “These partnerships help us build a local, sustainable production chain that uses the sun’s energy to bring healthy and delicious beef to our Northern California neighbors.”

All SunFed cattle and ranches are certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), meaning that all SunFed Organic ranchers have committed to not using pesticides or fertilizers on their farms and that their cattle are never, ever treated with antibiotics or growth enhancing hormones. Each SunFed ranch upholds environmental stewardship, animal care and traditional farming methods that harness the sun’s energy to carefully manage pastures that produce delicious grass-fed and grass-finished beef.

 "Nugget Markets is committed to supporting local ranchers like SunFed Organic Beef, and our partnership is another example of our continuing pledge to offer our guests the highest quality products and to help support sustainability and humane treatment of farm animals," said Angel Nolasco, director of meat operations for Nugget Markets. "Our guests can have peace of mind and enjoy SunFed's great tasting organic beef, knowing that these animals are raised with care and without any antibiotics or hormones."

SunFed Organic Beef ranchers will be at Nugget Markets in Roseville and El Dorado Hills on Saturday, December 3 from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. Stop by these locations to meet the SunFed ranchers and sample their delicious beef.

Canned Vegetables (green beans, corn, peas), instant mashed potatoes, canned yams, canned cranberries and cranberry sauce, chicken broth, corn bread mix, packets of gravy mix, beans and rice, pumpkin pie mix, foil pie and meat pans.

Please join us the following days and hours: 

• Tuesday, Nov. 15th at the Nugget Market at 1040 Florin Rd, from 12 noon – 2p
• Wednesday, Nov. 16th at the Nugget Market in El Dorado Hills at 4500 Post St., from 12 noon – 2p
• Thursday, Nov. 17th at the Nugget Market in West Sac at 2000 Town Center Plaza…Pat, Tom and Julie will be there broadcasting live and collecting food items from 5a – 10a.
• Tuesday-Thursday, Nov. 15th-17th at all Nugget Market locations a food bin will be available for donations.

Of course, if you are unable to make it to these Nugget Markets, you can always drop food items off at the KNCI Studios, 5244 Madison Avenue, Mon-Thursday next week (11/14-11/17) during our business hours, 8:30a — 5p.  There is such a huge need this year…thank you in advance for helping.

Woodland, CA – Family owned and operated Nugget Markets has come onboard as a major contributor, donating more than 2,500 pounds of deli meats, cheeses, and condiments, to non-profit Convoy of Hope outreach on Saturday, November 5, 10am to 3pm, at Cal Expo. Convoy of Hope is a neighborhood partnership between local businesses and churches, along with social, educational, and medical agencies.

With more than 2,000 volunteers serving an estimated guest count of at least 10,000 people in need, the Convoy of Hope outreach event will serve meals, provide free groceries, free hair-cuts, family entertainment, kids activities, job fair, social/educational help and other resources to the working poor, underprivileged children, single moms, and those striving to make a better life for themselves.

“We put the call out that we were in need of more food, and Nugget Markets immediately stepped in to help with a generous donation,” says Robin Smith, outreach coordinator for Convoy of Hope. “During these hard economic times, an event like Convoy of Hope really shows the heart of our community.”

Since 1926, Nugget Markets has been committed to supporting local communities through sponsorships and in-kind donations to events and fundraisers that support non-profit organizations near each Nugget Market.

“It’s an honor to help our neighbors and to meet their needs at the source through Convoy of Hope” says Randy Wehman, director of kitchen operations for Nugget Markets. “Helping our communities is an absolute top priority for our company.” 

Nugget Markets stores are located throughout Northern California, with markets in Davis, Woodland, Roseville, Elk Grove, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Vacaville, and El Dorado Hills.  For more information, visit www.nuggetmarket.com .

El Dorado Hills, CA – Local grocery store chain Nugget Markets, based out of Woodland, CA, announces three specialty cheese classes at the company’s El Dorado Hills Nugget Market location (4500 Post St.).  On the class schedule is “Cheeses and Wines from Spain” on October 29, “Holiday Entertaining with Cheese” on November 8, and “Celebratory Cheeses” on December 3.

Each cheese course has been designed by Nugget’s specialty cheese experts exclusively for Nugget Markets guests. The gatherings promise to be fun, intimate, and informative, and each course is conducted by Nugget Markets cheese specialists, with lots of instructor interaction. All classes are $30 per person plus tax and attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

“Cheeses and Wines from Spain” is scheduled for Saturday, October 29, from 2pm to 3:30pm.  From the Great Pyrenees Mountains to the Mediterranean Coast, Spain offers some of the most exciting cheeses in the world.  Guests will enjoy six to eight Spanish cheeses, along with five wines. 

“Holiday Entertaining with Cheese” takes place on November 8, 6pm to 7:30pm.  Guests will learn about making an unforgettable holiday cheese course, with tips on creating delicious cheese-inspired appetizers.  Three to five cheeses, a selection of appetizers, and five wines will be served. 

“Celebratory Cheeses” on Saturday, December 3, from 2pm – 3:30pm, shows guests how to ring in the New Year with luscious cheeses known to pair beautifully with sparkling wines, dessert wines, and port.

Fore more information, to register, and to confirm your reservation, please call (916) 933-1433 and speak with the El Dorado Hills Nugget Market administrative assistant.

Woodland - Local grocery chain Nugget Markets has been family owned and operated for 85 years, and to commemorate the company’s 85th anniversary this year, Nugget Markets is giving guests a chance to win an $8,500 Nugget Markets gift card, and every 85th new Nugget Markets fan on facebook or new Nugget Markets follower on Twitter will win a $100 Nugget gift card. 

Nugget guests are invited to enter to win an $8,500 Nugget Markets gift card by visiting any Nugget Markets location and completing an entry form. Guests can also enter online at www.nuggetmarket.com/85giveaway, September 28 through December 28, 2011.  One winner will be drawn on January 1, 2012.

Nugget Markets is also giving away a $100 Nugget Markets gift card on facebook and Twitter.  Upon liking Nugget Markets’ official fan page on facebook (facebook.com/nuggetmarkets) or following Nugget Markets official Twitter account (twitter.com/nugget_market), guests may enter by completing the online entry form for the “85th Anniversary Drawing”.  All properly completed entries will be compiled, and every 85th new fan (facebook) or new follower (Twitter) will receive a $100 Nugget Markets gift card.  Entries accepted September 28 through November 23, 2011.

“We’re so excited about celebrating our 85th anniversary,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc. “Over the years, our guests have made us who we are, and we’re thrilled to offer them a chance to win $8,500 worth of groceries and $100 gift cards.” 

Since its inception in 1926, Nugget Markets has been committed to offering quality products and to serving the local communities surrounding each store, with locations in Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, and Vacaville.  For more information, visit www.nuggetmarket.com .

Local grocery store chain Nugget Markets and Smart Chicken offer Nugget guests a chance to win a seat at Mike Yakura’s Asian cuisine cooking demo and dinner party on October 15, and one winning attendee will also go home with a  nine-piece set of Le Creuset cookware. 

During the month of September, Nugget guests can complete an entry form at any Nugget Market meat department contest display area or online at www.DineWithNugget.com , where guests can also view Chef Yakura’s cooking videos.   Known for his innovative approach, Yakura has been at the helm of San Francisco’s Ozumo for the past four years, and winning guests will have the opportunity to experience Yakura’s original and inspired dishes at this exclusive dinner party event. Twelve winners will be notified on or before October 12, 2011.

During this special September promotion, Nugget guests will also receive a free bottle of Earth & Vine’s Pineapple Sake Teriyaki Marinade with a purchase of any two Smart Chicken products, while supplies last.

Nugget Markets has been family-owned and operated in Northern California since its Woodland store first opened in 1926.  Nugget Markets are found in Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, and Vacaville.  For more information, visit www.nuggetmarket.com .

El Dorado Hills, CA - Nugget Market in El Dorado Hills announces Kraig Brady as store director.  Brady is a veteran Nugget associate, having begun his career in 1987 at the Mace Blvd. Davis Nugget Market in the produce department, where he moved into a produce manager position. Brady then transitioned into the bakery/deli/coffee bar manager position at the Mace store in 2001. Quickly moving up the ranks, Brady then became director of kitchen operations in 2004 where he remained until his most recent move to store director at Nugget’s El Dorado Hills location.

As director of kitchen operations, Brady was instrumental in developing and expanding Nugget’s in-house prepared foods program, focusing on seasonal flavors and rotating Nugget’s seasonal menus throughout the year.  Under Brady’s direction, Nugget Markets enhanced its deli selections, bakery offerings, coffee bar, and specialty cheese departments with new, exciting products and inspired “to-go” deli items.

“It’s such a pleasure to be part of the Nugget family over the years, and I’m thrilled to be working with such an amazing group of associates at our El Dorado Hills store,” says Brady.  “It’s a privilege to be serving the El Dorado Hills community and I’m so excited to connect with all our guests.”

Since its inception in 1926, Nugget Markets has been committed to offering quality products and to serving the local communities surrounding each store.  In addition to the El Dorado Hills store, Nugget Markets has store locations in Davis, Woodland, Elk Grove, Roseville, Vacaville, Sacramento, and West Sacramento.

Greenpeace’s seafood sustainability scorecard, “Carting Away the Oceans” evaluates retailers on a number of different sustainable seafood practices, such as sustainable seafood policy, support of sustainability initiatives, labeling and promotion of sustainable seafood and number of red list seafoods.

“We’ve always been devoted to our guests, our communities, and the environment,” says Angel Nolasco, director of meat operations at Nugget Market, Inc.  “We’re proud of our Greenpeace ranking, and we’re here to provide our guests with the necessary information to make seafood choices that are in alignment with their values and needs.”

Since 2006, Nugget Markets has been committed to an ongoing partnership with FishWise, a sustainable seafood non-profit organization in collaboration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program.  FishWise provides color-coded rankings for each type of fish, with each colored signage reflecting the respective sustainability color/ranking, country of origin, and wild or farmed identification. Green labels indentify species from well-managed sources that are farmed/wild caught in environmentally friendly ways.  Yellow labels signify species from farms/fisheries with positive attributes, but with environmental concerns.  Red labels identify species that are wild caught/farmed in ways that can cause harm to the environment. Greenpeace evaluates companies based on sustainable seafood policies, support for sustainability initiatives, labeling and promotion of sustainable seafood, and number of red-list seafood items.

In addition to partnering with FishWise, Nugget Markets signed and supports the following policy initiatives to foster healthy and sustainable seafood practices:  bycatch caps and use of cleaner gears, quotas recommended by scientists, enforcement and monitoring of fishing vessels, creation of marine reserves, and efforts to include strong environmental criteria in aquaculture legislation.

Nugget Markets has nine Northern California stores, located in Davis, Woodland, Roseville, El Dorado Hills, Vacaville, Elk Grove, Sacramento, and West Sacramento.

Founded in 1998 as a unique interdisciplinary research center, the UC Davis MIND Institute, located in Sacramento, is dedicated to working with researchers, clinicians, parents, community leaders, and students from around the globe to find the causes, most effective treatments and possible cures for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.  It is estimated that 1 out of 110 children born in the United States today will have autism.

“During Autism Awareness Month, we’re partnering with our guests to make a real impact and support the MIND Institute’s vital autism research,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc.  “We thank our guests and the community in advance for their consideration and generosity.”

Nugget Markets, Inc. has been dedicated to family and community since 1926, and the company’s nine stores are located in Davis, Woodland, El Dorado Hills, Roseville, Elk Grove, Sacramento, West Sacramento, and Vacaville.  For more information on autism awareness and the MIND Institute, visit http://mindinstitute.ucdavis.edu .

Woodland, Calif. – Nugget Markets supports the Saturday Café educational program at Sacramento’s Oak Ridge Elementary school, with healthy, fresh food donations and chef participation.  Starting in February through April, fourth grade students learn about every facet of the restaurant business at each Saturday Café event, culminating in the Five-Star Restaurant, a special evening on April 5.  At the Five-Star Restaurant event, the students plan, create, and serve an elegant springtime meal in their own restaurant setting at Oak Ridge School. 

From interior design planning, advertising, and ticket sales to cooking and managing costs and profits, the team of entrepreneurial students are guided and mentored at each Saturday Café event by professionals in the restaurant industry as well as the public relations, accounting, financial management, and culinary arts fields. Each Saturday Café event features a different theme, such as vegetarian/vegan cooking and cuisine from around the globe.

“It’s a real thrill to be a part of the Saturday Café program,” says Jeff Clark, executive chef of Nugget Markets.  “We’re delighted to support this unique organization, and it’s a great way to spend a Saturday – teaching and cooking with such a terrific, enthusiastic group of kids.”

“Upon completing the program, the kids then decide how to spend the profits earned from their business, on adventure trips throughout California,” says Stella Ruiz, director of the Saturday Café and Five-Star Restaurant program. “It’s a rewarding experience for these young, hard-working entrepreneurs.”

While paying for their groceries, guests may make a tax-deductible monetary donation at the check stand, and that donation amount will be recorded on their sales receipt. All funds directly support those affected by the Japan quake and tsunami.

“The Nugget Market and Food 4 Less family of associates and our guests have come alongside the American Red Cross to help alleviate the effects of this disaster,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Market, Inc.  “We’re committed to helping and to bringing hope and aid to those in need.” 

Family owned and operated, Nugget Market first opened its doors in 1926, and the company has maintained a solid dedication to community and to helping those in need ever since.  For more information on the American Red Cross and the Japan earthquake relief efforts, visit www.redcross.org.                         

Woodland, CA – Nugget Markets is a major sponsor of Sacramento Beer Week and celebrates Sacramento’s rich beer culture and a variety of tasty brews by offering special in-store tasting events from February 26 through March 5.  Nugget also supports Beer Week by participating in the Sacramento Brewer’s Showcase on February 24, the Capital Beerfest on March 5, and the Hopheads Scavenger Hunt, February 24 through March 5.

 Nugget Market guests can pick up a special Beer Week flyer, with a complete listing of all beer tasting events, at any Nugget location.  Guests are also invited to view the events page of Nugget’s website (www.nuggetmarket.com/events) for a tasting schedule.  Select beers being tasted include Sierra Nevada, Blue Moon, Lost Coast, Sam Adams, Sudwerk, Mendocino, New Belgium, Port Brewing, Anchor Steam, Lagunitas, Pyramid, Boulder, Deschutes, Gordon Biersch, Bear Republic, Rubicon, Anderson Valley, and Grand Teton.

 “As the premier retailer of microbrew and specialty brews in the Sacramento area, we’re really excited to bring the ‘love of the brew’ to our guests during Sacramento Beer Week,” says Brian Madden, beer category manager for Nugget Markets.  “Our tasting schedule gives our guests an opportunity to sample some new beers along with some old favorites and limited release items.”

 Nugget Markets has nine locations total in Davis, Woodland, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, Sacramento, West Sacramento and Vacaville. 

 For more information on Sacramento Beer Week, visit www.sacramentobeerweek.com . 

Known for its devotion to its people and community, Nugget Markets consistently nurtures a company culture and commitment to quality that are both positive and long lasting.  Nugget Markets values a family-oriented work environment; one that supports a healthy work/life balance.  In turn, the work atmosphere at every level of the company is marked by highly motivated associates with positive attitudes, making for a truly fun and dynamic work place.  

“Our associates define who we are,” says Eric Stille, president and CEO of Nugget Market, Inc.  “Without the undeniably creative, energetic, upbeat attitudes of our diverse family of associates, we wouldn’t be the company we are today.  We’re incredibly grateful to work with such a talented group!”

Nugget Markets leaders make it a priority to empower all associates to be the best they can be by offering educational opportunities, growth-in-leadership training, job execution excellence incentives, and achievement recognition for exhibiting outstanding leadership, performance, and initiative.  The company also offers outstanding benefits and wages, and Nugget “servant leaders” maintain an open-door policy, whereby associates are welcome and encouraged to share ideas and concerns with honest dialog.

Nugget Market, Inc. has been family owned and operated since 1926, and has nine Northern California locations in Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, and Vacaville.  The company’s three Food 4 Less stores are located in Vallejo, Cameron Park, and Woodland.

Methodology:  To pick the 100 Best Companies to Work For, FORTUNE partners with the Great Place to Work Institute to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Two-thirds of a company's score is based on the results of the Institute's Trust Index survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company. The survey asks questions related to their attitudes about management's credibility, job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The other third of the scoring is based on the company's responses to the Institute's Culture Audit, which includes detailed questions about pay and benefit programs and a series of open-ended questions about hiring practices, internal communications, training, recognition programs and diversity efforts. Any company that is at least seven years old with more than 1,000 U.S. employees is eligible. The deadline for applying for next year's list is June 15, 2011. For an online nomination form, go to www.greatplacetowork.com.

Nugget Markets gets into the festive spirit with the 2010 Wine Press holiday edition, featuring more than 100 wines and spirits, along with entertaining tips, gift baskets, cheese pairings, and combination suggestions.  All featured wines/spirits are a great value and have been personally hand-picked for Nugget Markets by Hank Beal, director of adult beverages and Nugget wine stewards.  Every item in the Wine Press makes a great gift in addition to enhancing any holiday meal or gathering.

“Our guests will find something for every holiday table at a great price,” says Beal.  “It’s been a real pleasure selecting some very exciting wines for this year’s guide and pairing those finds with some spectacular cheeses.”

Some of Beal’s favorites at a great savings include: Lunetta Prosecco ($8.99, save $4), Domaine Carneros Brut ($19.99, save $13), Esser Chardonnay ($6.99, save $5), Stemmler Chardonnay ($19.99, save $20), Warres Warrior Port ($13.99, save $5), Sterling 3 Palms Merlot ($29.99, save $30). Wine Press prices effective November 3, 2010 through January 2, 2011.

In addition to adult beverages, a variety of cheeses from Nugget Markets Specialty Cheese Department are also featured with wine suggestions, along with tips on how to entertain with cheeses, wines, and appetizers.  Pick one of four Nugget holiday gift baskets, which make the perfect, low-stress gift for friends, family, or coworkers at a great value.

To download the holiday Wine Press, visit www.nuggetmarket.com/holiday .

All Nugget Markets are now offering Nugget’s very own whole turducken and turducken breast rolls, made fresh in the Nugget Markets meat department for the holidays.  A  tradition at Nugget, both the whole turducken and the turducken breast rolls make for a fresh, stress-free, and impressive holiday meal.

While turducken recipes have been around for centuries, Nugget Markets has created a combination of layered flavors that reflect the taste of the holidays.  Each turducken is hand-crafted by Nugget Markets meat department associates. The whole-bird version starts with a semi-boneless turkey, filled with guest’s choice of stuffing, followed by Nugget’s own Fresh to Market chicken with seasoning and more stuffing, completed with fresh Muscovy duck breasts with more seasoning and stuffing.  The bird is then laced from top to bottom and topped with a fresh vegetable seasoning, ready to pop into the oven. The breast roll features similar ingredients.  Nugget Markets meat department associates are always available to offer expert advice on cooking the turducken and to answer any questions. 

“Both our whole turducken and turducken breast rolls are a great value and are made with top-quality poultry and our own fresh seasonings and stuffings, including Nugget’s fresh cranberry stuffing,” says Angel Nolasco, director of meat operations for Nugget Markets, Inc. “They’re really an impressive, low-maintenance treat at a great price for any holiday table.”

Starting Wednesday, November 17, guests can start ordering their holiday turducken, and orders will be completed and ready for pickup in 48 hours.  The Nugget whole bird turducken sells for $6.99/lb., regularly $7.99/lb, and the turducken breast rolls at $6.99/lb., regularly $9.99/lb.  Prices good through November 30, 2010.

To see how Nugget Markets associates create a turducken, along with more holiday entrée ideas, visit www.nuggetmarket.com/articles.php?id=92  and watch the “Holiday Ideas from our Meat Department” video.

One day last spring, an elderly patient I knew through Yolo Hospice died. I had not been assigned as her volunteer, but I had met her through another patient, saw her regularly and had grown fond of her.  Her death, which was expected, shocked me nevertheless. I walked into the nursing facility one day to visit and she was no longer alive. A curtain was drawn around her bed and the family was waiting for people to arrive from the funeral home.

I did what came naturally, expressing condolences to her husband and talking with other family members as they paced back and forth in the hall. I experienced a kind of internal disorganization — a buzzing in my head, a tiny tremor in my hands — but I didnt focus on my own feelings. Instead, I paid attention to the family.

When I left, about 45 minutes later, the buzz was gone and I returned to my normal routine, expecting that Id just keep trucking. Next on my list: food shopping at the Nugget Market on Covell Boulevard.

It was a weekday, but the store seemed unusually crowded. Or maybe it was full of clumsy patrons. I started off normally, eyes on my list, but then someone bumped me.

I got trapped in shopping cart traffic near the milk. Then I bumped someone myself — or maybe it was her fault. I didnt smile and apologize as I usually do. I realized that what I really wanted was to get out of there.

I grabbed about 20 items, hurried to the front of the store, and chose the shortest line.

As the checker began scanning my purchases, a young woman just past college age came over to bag my food.

“Hows your day going?” she said.

I wanted “fine” to come out of my mouth, but it didnt.

“So-so,” I said.

“Oh, my,” she answered. “I hope there was more good than bad.”

I wanted “yes” to come out of my mouth, but it didnt.

“No,” I said. “Somebody died.”

“Oh, my goodness,” the bagger responded. “Im so sorry.” She paused, “What a coincidence: My uncle died last week. It was the first death in my family, since I grew up, I mean. I know how you feel.”

In the face of her sympathy, sadness swept into me like a wave onto shore and tears welled up. She opened her arms saying, “Can I give you a hug?”

I shook my head, “no.” That felt too intimate from a total stranger, and yet the offer left me feeling even more vulnerable.

To regain my composure, I turned back to the screen where my items were ticking

by. I mumbled something about my 10 percent off coupon and handed it to the checker. A look passed between him and the bagger.

I opened my fanny pack, hunted for my wallet and fumbled with my credit card. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed the checker pulling out a tiny pad of white paper. He wrote something down. At the same time, the bagger disappeared.

Seconds later, the bagger returned. She was smiling broadly and carrying a bouquet of flowers. They were gerberas in a deep, beautiful wine color I had never seen before.

“Im sorry I didnt ask what color you like,” she said, “but I didnt want to spoil the surprise. These are my favorite.”

The tear that had been hovering at my eyelid found its way onto my cheek, but somehow I didnt feel embarrassed anymore. The young woman and I walked to the parking lot, the first time Ive ever let a Nugget bagger take my groceries to the car. We kept talking about loss, her uncle, my friend. She expressed an interest in volunteering, perhaps for Yolo Hospice, and I said I thought shed be a good match. Then I said goodbye — and gave her a hug.

Afterward, I couldnt stop thinking about what had happened to me. Someone had reached out to me, two people really, the bagger and the checker, but it wasnt just this individual bagger and this individual checker: It was the company behind them.

The company had a plan and a procedure for customers who are sad. Little white slips of paper leading to free flowers.

And then I started thinking what it would be like to be a young person working for an organization like this, where built right into your job is a mechanism for you to be kind to people on the spur of the moment, using your own judgment and taking action immediately.

Many of the employees at Nugget are young people, probably holding their first or second job. This is part of what they learn. What might the bagger carry forward if she owns a business someday?

I dont normally write columns praising specific businesses in town, especially since I havent tried all of them, but today I make an exception. Nugget, I appreciated this.

And to the young woman whose name I no longer remember, whose face I might no longer recognize, but who happened into my life at just the right moment, thank you.

— Marion Franck lives in Davis with her family. Reach her at marionf@omsoft.com. Her column appears Sundays. 

October 20 through November 3

SHINGLE SPRINGS, CA – Nugget Market in El Dorado Hills and Food 4 Less in Cameron Park are teaming with the Buckeye Education Foundation on a matching fund drive in support of schools in the Buckeye Union School District of El Dorado County.

During the two week period of October 20 to November 3, guests may make tax-deductible donations to the Foundation at check stands at either of the two venues, and the stores will match combined donations, up to $2,500.

"Were thrilled to team up with the Buckeye Education Foundation in support of our kids,” said Eric Stille, Owner/CEO of Nugget Markets and Food 4 Less.  “This fund drive is such a great opportunity to partner with our guests and the community to help make a positive impact in our schools."

Foundation President Jon Yoffie called the matching funds drive an important part of the Foundation’s overall fundraising effort.  “Our school families at each of the school campuses are already contributing to the Foundation through our annual campaign drive, “said Yoffie.  ”Additional community support from companies like Nugget and Food 4 Less is vitally needed to maintain quality education and protect our property values in the face of our state’s budget crisis.  We encourage other businesses to find similarly creative ways to assist local schools.”

Formed in 2009, the Buckeye Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit collaboration of parents, educators and community members combating inadequate funding for schools at the state level by providing supplemental funding to the five elementary schools and two middle schools within the Buckeye Union School District in El Dorado County, California.  The district-wide Foundation’s charter is to enhance the education of all K-8 students in the Buckeye Union School District; to fund programs that the District is unable to fund; and to provide funds to assist the District with capital improvements and updated technology.  For more information, and to make a donation, visit www.buckeyefoundation.org. 

“Everyone here at our Florin Road Nugget Market are so happy that Michelle was chosen as this month’s winner!” says Erica Greer, store director.  “It’s so great to know that Michelle loves shopping with us as much as we love serving her and all our guests.”

For more information about taking the Nugget Markets Price Survey and the monthly $1,000 Nugget Markets gift card drawing, visit www.nuggetmarket.com or stop by any Nugget Market and ask an associate for details.  For up-to-the-minute Nugget news, go to www.twitter.com/Nugget_Market.  Check out Nugget Markets on facebook at www.facebook.com/nuggetmkts.

Davis, CA – Nugget Markets in Davis announces this month’s Nugget Markets Price Survey winner Zachary Laudi, who took the price survey and walked away with a $1,000 Nugget Markets gift card.  Guests taking the price survey are automatically entered into the monthly drawing for a $1,000 Nugget Markets gift card.  All guests are invited to take the survey, which compares Nugget Markets prices of 25 commonly purchased items to those prices offered by Nugget’s competitors (Raley’s,/Bel Air, and Safeway).   In 8 out of 10 price comparison surveys, Nugget Markets beats Raley’s/Bel Air and Safeway’s prices.  Price survey results are posted in each Nugget Market.

“We’ve been shopping at Nugget for awhile for the outstanding quality,” says Zachary Laudi, who compared Nugget’s prices to Safeway’s prices.  “After doing the price survey, we learned that in addition to being excellent in both service and quality, Nugget is also superior in price.”

“All of us are thrilled that it’s one of our guests who took the survey and ended up winning the big prize!” comments Dave Wilson, store director of the Nugget Markets on E.Covell Blvd. in Davis. “It’s our true pleasure to serve Zachary and all our guests, as they really do mean the world to us.”

For more information about taking the Nugget Markets Price Survey and the monthly $1,000 Nugget Markets gift card drawing, visit http://www.nuggetmarket.com or stop by any Nugget Market and ask an associate for details.  For up-to-the-minute Nugget news, go to www.twitter.com/Nugget_Market.  Visit Nugget Markets on facebook at www.facebook.com/nuggetmkts.

Survey shows differences in grocery item prices

Published on Apr 15, 2010

Editors Note: The California Aggie sent reporter Vanna Le to take the Nugget Market Price Survey, which compares Nugget and competitors prices in Davis.

Because grocery store prices vary by store and produce prices change rapidly, its always difficult to determine which grocery stores actually do maintain low prices.

I recently visited the Nugget Market on East Covell Boulevard after hearing about the "Nugget Market Price Survey," hoping to gain some insight into the world of competitive grocery store pricing.

The survey invites local shoppers to write down a list of 25 regularly bought grocery store items, along with Nugget and their competitors prices. To keep things fair, the items must be of the same brand and size from both stores.

This may seem like a tedious amount of work, but the incentive lies within a $1,000 Nugget gift card awarded monthly to a raffle contest winner.

"Weve been doing this for about two years, and weve found that eight out of 10 times, our prices are definitely lower," said Kate Stille, director of marketing for Nugget Market.

They arent afraid to publicize their results either. Above the entranceway next to the Nugget Deli section is a scoreboard where survey results are announced to the general public.

"People tend to have the perception that Nugget may be more expensive, but this isnt always the case," Stille said. "And the reason is because a lot of the items we do carry are specialty items that you cant find at standard conventional stores."

She said that the best way to do a comparison between prices is to take the survey - which was exactly what I set out to do.

Filling up 25 items wasnt difficult at all; I racked up my list with common items that a college student might purchase - such as bread, cereal, soymilk, vegetables and a plentiful supply of coffee and energy drinks. The competing store of choice was Safeway.

Upon completion of the survey, I met with Dave Wilson, store director of the Nugget Market. We calculated the total prices from each store and compared them: Nuggets total was $62.39 and Safeway at $77.28 - the difference being $14.89.

"People always come back surprised after taking the survey. But were dedicated to having lower prices," Wilson said. "We spend hundreds of hours a week on pricing, and we have a team of crew members who physically gets out there to check prices."

The Nugget prices on my item list turned out to be cheaper for the most part. When they werent, the prices were relatively similar by a few cents.

A half gallon of Silk soymilk, for example, was $3.29 at Safeway and $3.69 at the Nugget. Items such as Golden Grain spaghetti and Jell-O mix sold for the same prices.

"I only shop at the Nugget Market when Im looking for something specific, such as organic fruits or a certain product," said Amy Pham, a junior managerial economics major. "Most of the time, Ill shop at Safeway because the things I usually buy are cheaper there."

Rebeca Wolfe, a senior psychology major said that she usually shops at the Nugget.

"I found that the prices are kind of similar anyway," she said. "Theres also a better variety here, such as non-meat foods and Earth-friendly products."

Unlike their typical competitors, Wilson said that the Nugget Market doesnt have a major reliance on advertisements. Rather, they have a Twitter and Facebook page, and prefer to depend on word of mouth.

"Our guests make us who we are, as well as the quality of our services and our values. Our produce, for example, is locally grown," Wilson said. "And we have a deli and bakery that prepares food fresh from scratch."

The Nugget Market encourages all of their guests to take the Price Survey Challenge in order to determine which prices are cheaper.

"The Price Survey shows our willingness to compare prices," said Eric Lam, a shift manager at the Nugget Market. "Even though we arent always going to have the lowest prices on everything, the fact that we arent afraid to put ourselves out there and present the challenge really says something."

For more information about the Nugget Markey Price Survey, visit a nearby Nugget store or nuggetmarket.com.

Written by Vanna Le, Staff Writer 

Elk Grove, CA -   Elk Grove resident Kristin Marguilis completed the Nugget Market Price Survey and ended up winning a $1,000 Nugget Market gift card.  Every month, each guest taking the price survey is automatically eligible for the gift card drawing, and all Nugget Market guests are invited to take the survey.  The survey involves comparing Nugget’s prices of 25 commonly purchased items to those prices offered by Nugget’s competitors (Raley’s, Bel Air, and Safeway).   Nugget Market consistently beats Raley’s/ Bel Air and Safeway’s prices in 8 out of 10 price comparison surveys.  Price survey results are posted in each Nugget Market.

“I really wanted to do the survey to prove that Nugget does have the lowest prices!” says Kristin Marguilis, who compared Nugget’s prices to Bel Air’s prices.  “Not only does Nugget have the lowest prices, but the staff is amazing.  I love coming into the Nugget and now that they have shown me the savings, I won’t shop anywhere else.”

“We’re absolutely delighted that this month’s survey winner is one of our Elk Grove guests!” says John Sullivan, store director of the Elk Grove Nugget Market.  “We love serving Kristin and all our guests, and we’re thrilled that she will be visiting us for all her shopping needs.”

For more information about participating in the Nugget Market Price Survey and the monthly $1,000 Nugget Market gift card drawing, visit www.nuggetmarket.com or stop by any Nugget Market and ask an associate for details.  Stay current with Nugget Market news and up-to-the-minute buzz at www.twitter.com/Nugget_Market.  Become a Nugget facebook fan at www.facebook.com/nuggetmkts.

Ranked No. 10 in 2009, #12 in 2008, No. 13 in 2007, No. 33 in 2006, Nugget Markets is known for its devotion to its people.  Creating and maintaining a world-class work environment is the fuel behind the unique spirit and creative energy of the Nugget Markets culture.  Leaders support a healthy work-life balance for associates (employees) and empower all associates by offering growth-in-leadership training, educational opportunities, incentives for job execution excellence, and daily achievement recognition for outstanding performance. With their open-door policy, Nugget Markets “servant leaders” personally listen and respond to associate feedback.  In the midst of a challenging economic climate, Nugget Markets leadership fulfilled associate requests and offered a 10% discount card to each associate.  Nugget Markets has never had a single lay-off in the company’s 84-year history, and the many associate perks include outstanding health benefits and wages.

“We’re absolutely blown away by this year’s results!” says Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc.  “Our associates are our brand, and their energy, creativity, diversity, and passion are the foundation of our success.  We’ve got a talented group of dedicated people, and they make us who we are.”

To pick the 100 Best Companies, FORTUNE partners with the Great Place to Work Institute to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America.  Two-thirds of a company’s score is based on the results of the Institute’s Trust Index survey, which is sent to a random sample of employees from each company.  The survey asks questions related to their attitudes about the management’s credibility, job satisfaction, and camaraderie.  The other third of the scoring is based on the company’s responses to the Institute’s Culture Audit, which includes detailed questions about pay and benefit programs and a series of open-ended questions about hiring, communication, and diversity.  Any company that is at least seven years old with more than 1,000 U.S. employees is eligible.

 Nugget Market, Inc., family owned and operated since 1926, has nine Northern California locations, in Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, and Vacaville. The company’s three Food 4 Less stores are located in Vallejo, Cameron Park, and Woodland.

"The Stille family and our Nugget Market and Food 4 Less family of associates partner with our guests and the world to provide help during this devastating crisis in Haiti,” says Eric Stille, CEO of Nugget Markets, Inc.  “This situation becomes more dire every hour, and we’re committed to alleviating the effects of this catastrophe.”

While paying for their groceries at the checkstands, guests are invited to donate any amount to the relief program, and that tax-deductible dollar amount will be recorded on the sales receipt. In addition to donations received at the checkstands, Nugget Markets, Inc. will donate a matching contribution of $5,000 to the American Red Cross for the Haiti earthquake relief efforts. 

Family owned and operated, Nugget Market first opened its doors in 1926, and the company has maintained a solid dedication to community and to helping those in need ever since.  For more information on the American Red Cross and the Haiti earthquake relief effort, visit www.redcross.org.

Sacramento, Calif. - Joining with UC Davis Children’s Hospital, Nugget Market is a presenting sponsor for this year’s Capitol Family Fun Day on Sunday October 26, 2008. This free event runs from 10am to 2pm in and around the steps of the State Capitol, at the Capitol Park in Sacramento.

Capitol Family Fun Day’s goal is to promote safe and healthy children and families while educating the community on nutrition, healthy eating, exercise and fitness (including childhood obesity prevention), and injury prevention (including bicycle, vehicle, and car seat safety). The event also features a variety of activities aimed at pre-schoolers to pre- teens, including booths and workshops for parents and kids

Nugget Market hosts its own “Nutrition Zone,” featuring produce and healthy snack samplings, a pumpkin display, and a pumpkin-painting station for kids. Fitness and nutrition expert Dr. Liz Applegate will be on hand to share information about cultivating a lifestyle for optimum health. Attendees can also sign up for Nugget’s free “Fresh to Market” on-line news letter, filled with tips, recipes, demos, and more.

“Nugget Market is dedicated to our children and our communities, and we’re honored to be a part of the first Capitol Family Fun Day,” says Eric Stille, president and CEO of Nugget Market. “It’s a real thrill to be included in this fantastic event in support of the health and safety of our kids and families.”

Since 1926, Nugget Market has stood behind its immediate communities while maintaining a steadfast commitment to offering unsurpassed service and quality products.