I wish that there was a Whole Foods closer to where I live. But you can be sure that I will shop at your markets when I can. And, I will also build my own new business on this type of transparent honesty. Kudos to you and your entire company.

I am curious to know if you receive income from any other sources, especially sources that are in ANY way affiliated with Whole Foods (i.e. the Whole Planet Foundation or the Animal Compassion Foundation)?

If so, has your salary recently increased, or if you were receiving zero to little income, are you now receiving a substantial income?

At an executive level I am sure that you play many roles in many organizations where a move such as this could be spun to appear benevelonet in order to better (yours) or the companies image for whatever reason.

Your response will be appreiated,

Zachary

What you posted says a lot to me and how you feel about working at WFM!! I was very impressed!! What you wrote really got my attention and made me think. I am sure John Mackey would love to have many more employee’s like you!! Your post is an inspiration!!

This wasn’t too hard to see coming. WF is just not hot anymore. Growth has slowed and the P/E ratio is coming back down to earth. In the end, it’s just a grocery store.

I applaud your decisions though Mr. Mackey.

What’s wrong with America?

Every team member at Whole Foods has the opportunity to advance. It is, afterall, the land of opportunity. Team members are given the opportunity to innovate and grow with the company. John Mackey didn’t open Whole Foods making $152 an hour neither did other successful and wealthy team members.

Steve Jobs said: “Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.”

There is no shortcut to excellence. You will have to make the commitment to make excellence your priority. Use your talents, abilities, and skills in the best way possible and get ahead of others by giving that little extra. Live by a higher standard and pay attention to the details that really do make the difference. Excellence is not difficult – simply decide right now to give it your best shot – and you will be amazed with what life gives you back.

I don’t even work there full-time, yet I show up for work every day just as enthusiastic as the last day I worked…..for $10/hour. It isn’t always about money, it’s about having a passion and a purpose. I volunteer for committees and use my lunch hour from my full-time job to attend. I believe in the mission of the company and I am thankful to be a small part of a company that has already changed the face of business in this country. I know many people who have chosen a modest lifestyle over a certain “standard” of living and they are loving life–it’s not always about money.

I understand that it is a delicate balance to continue to grow a more mature company, while retaining your corporate culture and values – but your focus on executives rather than the front line is an unfortunate trend.

As a customer, I used to love the chicken/feta/kalamata sausage. When I asked at the deli, they told me that it is too expensive to make anymore. When I said I would be willing to pay more (it isn’t really a cost conscious shopping experience after all) – the nice man at the counter said that corporate wouldn’t listen to their requests and said that all of the chicken sausages had to be the same price.

Maybe it wouldn’t hurt if some of your executives left, and you promoted some people out of the stores to replace them.

Just a thought.

Regards,
Laura