Ralphs stores in Southern California has announced that they will now carry Rubicon Bakers’ full line of handcrafted cakes and cupcakes. Ralphs is the largest subsidiary of Kroger, the U.S.’s largest supermarket chain. Ralphs’ decision further validates Rubicon Bakers’ founding mission to “Bake a Better World” through conscious business practices and a commitment to hire and support those with significant barriers to employment. With the growing demand for Rubicon Bakers’ scratch-made desserts and the company’s swift retail expansion, Rubicon proves that goodwill is also good for business. 175 locations in Southern California will offer Rubicon Bakers’ line of 16 everyday cakes and cupcakes, including five vegan varieties. These baked delights will hit store shelves by the end of August. 

For 26 years, Rubicon Bakers’ social mission has helped drive the company’s success and it is now paying off more than ever, telling of a larger trend in business. According to a recent annual report from Deloitte, companies are starting to invest more money and resources into social missions. Additionally, the same report notes that 86 percent of millennials think the success of a business should be measured by more than just financial performance. As a certified B Corporation, Rubicon Bakers has used its business as a force for good since its beginning. 

“Partnering with Ralphs is an exciting way to not only share our delicious, hand-finished cakes and cupcakes, but to also further strengthen our social mission,” says Leslie Crary, Rubicon Bakers co-owner and VP human resources. “Many employees come to Rubicon Bakers from life on the streets, prison or recently recovered from substance abuse. Our growing business enables us to increase employment opportunities for folks looking for a second chance and a way to support themselves and their families.”

Ralphs will now offer Rubicon Bakers’ everyday line of double-layer cakes and filled cupcake 4-packs in 175 stores in Southern California. Cake varieties include California Lemon, Mom’s Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Triple Chocolate Ghirardelli, Birthday, Vegan Chocolate Blackout, and Vegan Vanilla. Cupcake varieties include Chocolate Cream, Lemon, Red Velvet, Carrot, Vegan Neapolitan, Vegan Chocolate Blackout, and Vegan Vanilla.