Unimarc, a subsidiary of SMU, celebrated the 13th anniversary of “100% Nuestro”, the first program in the Chilean supermarket industry dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The milestone was marked during the Annual Local Entrepreneurs’ Meeting, which brought together producers from across the country to recognize the program’s lasting impact.

The initiative began 13 years ago in Chile’s Aysén Region, when Unimarc partnered with INDAP to allow local farmers to sell their produce in supermarkets. That collaboration became the seed for 100% Nuestro, Unimarc’s pioneering nationwide program designed to help SMEs reach new markets. Today, the program includes 167 entrepreneurs, 40% of whom are women-led businesses.

“Thirteen years after its launch, we remain fully committed to supporting local entrepreneurs,” said Lionel Gubler, Unimarc’s Format Manager. “Bringing more regional products into our stores allows us to serve customers better, while helping our suppliers grow sustainably. Unimarc is present throughout Chile — even in places where others don’t reach — and we take pride in connecting the flavors and traditions of every region", he added.

Beyond offering dedicated shelf space and in-store visibility, 100% Nuestro provides its suppliers with comprehensive development support — including priority assistance, product reception support, training, mentoring, technical guidance, and media visibility, ensuring holistic business growth.

One of Unimarc’s strategic partners in this effort is the Simón de Cirene Foundation, which supports entrepreneurs and community organizations nationwide. Together, they manage a mentorship program that has already completed 30 mentorship cycles this year alone.

A Strong Regional Focus

Currently, 75% of participating suppliers are based in Chile’s regions outside Santiago, underscoring the program’s territorial reach. 100% Nuestro has also been recognized with the “Mi Compromiso Pyme” Seal, awarded for its significant contribution to the development of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses.

María Elba Chahuán, Vice President and Founder of Unión Emprendedora, the NGO that grants the “Mi Compromiso Pyme” Seal alongside EY Chile, emphasized that the initiative “helps level the playing field between large companies and local suppliers. Through 100% Nuestro, SMU has made a genuine commitment to its entrepreneurs — helping them strengthen each stage of their business journey. For many of them, having their products on a supermarket shelf is not just a goal, it’s a dream come true".

Among the many success stories is Liliana Maier, who joined 100% Nuestro six years ago with her business “D Lili’s”, based in the Coquimbo Region. Her company produces and sells cookies, chocolates, and confectionery — and today, her products are even available on Amazon, reaching international customers.

“Being part of Unimarc has been a tremendous boost for our business,” Maier shared. And added: “Having our sweets and chocolates on Unimarc shelves has given us greater visibility and built trust with our customers. The training and support we’ve received through the program have been key to improving our processes and continuing to grow".