Arlington, VA – Food Marketing Institute (FMI) today announces it has joined forces with SABER, the Single Automated Business Exchange for Reporting, to offer food retailers a streamlined system for identifying a store’s business status following a natural disaster or other crisis event.
“When a food retailer goes into response mode after a natural disaster, one of the first steps is to assess which stores are open and which stores are closed,” Doug Baker, FMI vice president of industry relations, said. “This essential information helps federal and local government agencies direct assistance so that grocery stores can re-open their doors and serve the community in need.”
Baker recommended a partnership with SABER because their system saves FMI members time; improves timeliness and accuracy of information; and reduces gaps, overlaps, and inconsistencies in the critical information that governments use to prioritize response decisions. Several retailers including Wakefern Corporation, Associated Grocers, Target, Costco, Walmart, Sears, Lowes, Macy’s and Walgreens are already a part of the SABER network.
“The mission of SABER is to help businesses in an emergency stay open longer and to get businesses back in business faster,” said James W. Morentz, Ph.D., executive director of SABER. “We offer this complimentary service to retailers so there can be a more coordinated and efficient response after a natural disaster.”
SABER offers food retailers a free and convenient way to communicate store status for response teams through the SABER Status Map. Food retailers can also work with SABER to build an automated connection or subscribe to the new SABER mobile app.
On Sept. 19, FMI and SABER will host a webinar for food retailers to learn more. Register online.
Industry Topics address your specific area of expertise with resources, reports, events and more.
Our Research covers consumer behavior and retail operation benchmarks so you can make informed business decisions.
Events and Education including online and in-person help you advance your food retail career.
Food Safety training, resources and guidance that help you create a company food safety culture.
Government Affairs work — federal and state — on the latest food industry policy, regulatory and legislative issues.
Get Involved. From industry awards to newsletters and committees, these resources help you take advantage of your membership.
Best practices, guidance documents, infographics, signage and more for the food industry on the COVID-19 pandemic.
