Once again, local, family-owned Nugget Market, Inc. has been named to FORTUNE Magazine’s 2009 list of the “100 Best Companies to Work For,” coming in at No. 10 in the nation.  The complete 2009 list, along with more detailed information, is available now at FORTUNE.com/bestcompanies.  In addition, the February 2, 2009 issue of FORTUNE (on newsstands Monday, January 26) will run the “100 Best Companies to Work For” list and related stories.

A key component pertaining to this year’s “100 Best” companies is the fact that all these companies excel at creating jobs.  Of the 100 companies on the 2009 list, 73 are still hiring, including Nugget Market, Inc.  In his FORTUNE.com blog, Managing Editor Andy Serwer comments, “No matter what happens with the economy, the demand for talent will remain.  Great companies know that super-motivated, happy, world-class employees are an incredible competitive advantage.”  Nugget was also recognized for its outstanding healthcare benefits and commitment to encouraging associates to balance their work and personal life.

Ranked No. 33 in 2006, No. 13 in 2007, No. 12 in 2008, and now No. 10 in 2009, Nugget Market, Inc. is known for its commitment to a unique and spirited company culture with excellent healthcare and benefits. The company wholeheartedly supports associates (employees) in fulfilling their dreams and goals, while nurturing a healthy work-life balance for every associate.  The company is quick to recognize that it is the associates who make Nugget Market a leading grocer.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be ranked No. 10 on this year’s listing,” President/CEO Eric Stille said.  “Without question, our associates are the force behind all of our successes, and I’m honored to have each and every one of our associates on our team.  Because all 1,500 associates are valued family members, our highest priority is to ensure a fun, supportive and exceptional workplace experience.”

The Stilles are dedicated to offering a work environment that values diversity, creativity, initiative, and personal empowerment for each associate.  Associates are encouraged to explore their unlimited potential and to achieve and surpass their personal and
professional goals.  Nugget offers opportunities, incentives, wages, and benefits that are the envy of the industry. Retreats, leadership seminars, spontaneous celebrations, rewards, contests, associate acknowledgement and peer recognition create a culture where having fun is an everyday occurrence.

COO Chris Carpenter said, “In order to be one of the best companies in the nation, you’ve got to have the best associates in the nation, and that’s what we have – 1,500 strong!”

Chairman Gene Stille agreed. “I am so proud of each and every one of our associates from our Nugget and Food 4 Less family.  These wonderful people constantly amaze me with their spirit and dedication.”

Since the first Nugget Market opened its doors in 1926, the company has remained steadfast in its commitment to each store’s immediate community.  In addition to creating an exceptional work atmosphere, the company is dedicated to supporting the families, individuals, schools, neighborhoods and organizations that surround each Nugget Market.

In order to be eligible for FORTUNE’s list, companies must have been in business for at least seven years and employ more that 1,000 U.S. workers.  Any eligible business may choose to participate in an annual comprehensive evaluation conducted by the Great Place to Work® Institute and FORTUNE.  Two-thirds of each company’s rating is based upon results of a 57-question survey taken by 400 randomly selected employees.  Measured categories are: credibility, respect, fairness, camaraderie, and pride.  The remaining third comes from an extensive Culture Audit® that analyzes everything from the company’s financial information to the level of fun experienced by each employee.  Based on these ratings, FORTUNE ranks and names “100 Best Companies to Work For.”

Nugget Market, Inc. has 12 Northern California locations:  Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, West Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, El Dorado Hills, and Vacaville.  The company’s Food 4 Less stores are located in Vallejo, Cameron Park and Woodland.