From farmonline comes the story

"Macro Wholefoods Market impressed us by the way it has responded to the green agenda and consumer concerns," says Jonathan Gunz, IGD senior business analyst.  "A company's stance on sustainability is fast becoming a key factor in consumer purchasing decisions."

Macro Wholefoods Market actively targets what it calls the 'conscious consumer' with a range of more than 12,000 organic, natural and 'fair trade' products, each of which has a story to tell about the source of production and suppliers used.

"Macro Wholefoods Market excels by communicating its business principles throughout its stores," he said.  "It is bold enough to experiment with formats to better connect with customers, for example having in-store cafés, Wellbeing Centres located within its stores and even offering guided tours.

"Health, well-being and sustainability concerns are increasingly becoming mainstream and Macro Wholefoods Market is benefiting.  This is evidenced by the number of new customers they are attracting who have never been to health stores before."

Macro Wholefoods has ambitious growth plans, with aims to grow its current eight Sydney and Melbourne stores to 35-40 nationwide, and a possible export of the concept. 

Other retailers making the Ten to Watch 2007 list include online giant Amazon, which is striking into the emerging online grocery market, and Indian conglomerate Reliance, which has taken first mover advantage in the dynamic and strategically important Indian retail sector.