Monday, March 04, 2024

What is Azure Standard?

Azure Standard

What is Azure Standard?

Azure Standard is a family-owned company in the United States that sells a variety of organic, natural, and non-GMO groceries, health and beauty products, household items, nutritional supplements, and gardening supplies. They offer over 12,000 products to meet the needs of health-conscious households, and they cater to both regular and bulk order needs.

Here are some key points about Azure Standard:

Products: They offer a wide range of organic, natural, and non-GMO groceries, health and beauty products, household items, nutritional supplements, and gardening supplies.

Delivery: They offer two delivery options: mail delivery (through UPS or USPS) and pick-up at designated locations called "Drop Points".

Values: They are a family-owned and independent company dedicated to providing high-quality products at affordable prices.


How does Azure Standard work?

Azure Standard operates as a bulk buying cooperative with a unique delivery system. Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1. Joining:
  • There's no membership fee to join Azure Standard.
  • You can create an account on their website.

2. Finding a Drop Point:
  • Unlike typical delivery services, Azure Standard doesn't deliver directly to your home.
  • Instead, they utilize a network of designated "Drop Points" located across the country, often at churches, businesses, or even personal residences.
  • You'll need to find a Drop Point near you and note its corresponding number for placing your order.

3. Placing an Order:
  • Browse their extensive online catalog and add desired items to your virtual cart.
  • Select the Drop Point where you'll pick up your order during checkout.
  • Be mindful that there might be a minimum order requirement for your specific Drop Point to ensure shared shipping costs are met.

4. Delivery and Pick-up:
  • Azure Standard delivers bulk orders to your chosen Drop Point at predetermined intervals, usually every 2-4 weeks.
  • Once the delivery truck arrives at the Drop Point, it's a community effort to unload, sort, and distribute the orders among members.
  • You'll be notified when your order is ready for pick-up at the Drop Point.

5. Benefits:
  • This system allows Azure Standard to reduce costs associated with individual deliveries, which they pass on to their customers in the form of competitive pricing.
  • It also fosters a sense of community among members who participate in the unloading and distribution process.

Additional points to consider:

  • While they primarily focus on organic and natural products, some conventional options might be available.
  • They offer mail delivery as an alternative to pick-up at Drop Points, but it comes with separate shipping fees.
  • You can find more details about the process, including FAQs and informative videos, on the Azure Standard website.

What religion is Azure Standard?

Azure Standard, the company that sells organic and natural groceries, household items, and more, does not publicly promote any specific religion.

The founders and owners, the Stelzer family, have been reported to follow beliefs aligned with some aspects of specific religions but do not strictly adhere to any one denomination.

For instance, they reportedly observe Saturday as the Sabbath, which aligns with some Christian denominations and Seventh-day Adventists, but they are not identified as members of any specific faith group. They also reportedly hold a Passover celebration, which is a central holiday in Judaism, but they are not Jewish.

It's important to remember that a company's religious affiliation is separate from the individual beliefs of its founders or employees. Azure Standard focuses on providing natural and organic products to its customers, and their religious beliefs, if any, are not a part of their business operations.

* Where is Azure Standard located?

Azure Standard is headquartered in Dufur, Oregon, United States. They have several facilities in the area, including:

  • Moro Warehouse: This is their primary warehouse where they receive, store, and process bulk orders.
  • Azure General Store: This is a retail store where you can purchase individual items and smaller quantities.

While their headquarters and facilities are in Dufur, Oregon, they operate nationwide through their network of Drop Points for order pick-up and mail delivery options.

Who owns Azure Standard?

Azure Standard is owned by the Stelzer family, with David Stelzer serving as the founder and CEO.

David's family has been involved in farming for over a century, and he began organically farming as a teenager in the 1970s. This passion for organic and healthy foods led him to found Azure Standard in 1987.

The company started by selling grains grown on the family farm but has since expanded to offer a wide variety of organic, natural, and non-GMO products. David remains actively involved in the company, leading with a focus on healthy living and sustainable practices.

Where are Azure Standard drop locations?

Azure Standard doesn't have individual store locations, but instead operates through a network of designated pick-up points called "Drop Points". These Drop Points are spread across the United States, often located at places like:

  • Churches
  • Businesses
  • Personal residences

Here's how to find an Azure Standard Drop Point near you:

  1. Visit the Azure Standard Drop Point Locator on their website: 
  2. Enter your zip code or city and state.
  3. The map will display nearby Drop Points with details like:
    • Address
    • Contact information (if available)
    • Drop coordinator name (the person responsible for the Drop Point)

You can also find additional information about Drop Points on the Azure Standard website, including:



Does Azure Standard offers bulk food?

Yes, Azure Standard is well-known for offering bulk food options. They sell a wide variety of organic, natural, and non-GMO groceries in bulk quantities, allowing customers to purchase staples and other items at potentially lower prices compared to regular grocery stores. 

Azure Standard bulk food

Here are some of the bulk food categories you can find on Azure Standard:

  • Baking & Pantry: This includes flours, grains, sugars, spices, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
  • Beans & Peas: A wide selection of dried beans, lentils, and peas are available.
  • Beverages: Coffee, tea, cocoa, and other drink mixes can be purchased in bulk.
  • Boxed Meals: Bulk options for oatmeal, pasta mixes, and other convenience foods are offered.
  • Breads & Bakery: Find bread flour, pancake mix, and other baking ingredients in bulk.
  • Cereals & Hot Breakfast: Hot cereals like oatmeal and grits are available in bulk quantities.
  • Condiments: Sauces, vinegars, oils, and other condiments can be purchased in bulk.
  • Dairy, Cheese & Eggs: While fresh dairy products are not available in bulk, some shelf-stable dairy options and cheese curds are offered.
  • Dried Fruits: A large variety of dried fruits can be found in bulk.
  • Frozen Foods: While not exactly bulk, Azure Standard offers frozen meats and vegetables in larger quantities than typical grocery stores.
  • Fats & Oils: Cooking oils, shortening, and nut butters are available in bulk.
  • Flour & Grains: Wheat flour, whole wheat flour, bread flour, pastry flour, and other grains are available in bulk.
  • Health & Beauty: Some bulk options for personal care items like bath salts and laundry detergent are offered.
  • Honey & Maple Syrup: Both honey and maple syrup can be purchased in bulk.
  • Household: Bulk cleaning supplies and other household essentials are available.
  • Meat: Azure Standard offers various cuts of frozen meat in bulk, including beef, chicken, pork, and seafood.
  • Nuts & Seeds: A wide variety of nuts and seeds can be found in bulk.
  • Pasta & Rice: Different types of pasta and rice are available in bulk quantities.
  • Pet Food: Dry pet food can be purchased in bulk.
  • Snacks: Bulk options for healthy snacks like trail mix and granola are offered.
  • Spices & Seasonings: A large selection of spices and seasonings can be found in bulk.
  • Spreads & Nut Butters: Peanut butter, almond butter, and other nut butters are available in bulk.
  • Sugar & Sweeteners: Sugar, brown sugar, honey, and other sweeteners can be purchased in bulk.
  • Tea & Coffee: Loose leaf tea and coffee beans are available in bulk.
  • Vegetables: While fresh vegetables are not available in bulk, some dried vegetable options are offered.

It's important to note that minimum order quantities might apply to specific Drop Points, so be sure to check the requirements before placing your order.

* Azure Standard Jobs/Career:

Azure Standard primarily operates as a family-owned business with a limited number of job postings publicly available. However, there are a few ways to explore potential employment opportunities with them:

1. Check their careers page:

  • Visit their careers page
  • While they might not always have open positions listed, it's a good idea to bookmark the page and check back periodically for any new postings.

2. Search online job boards:

  • Use general job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn to search for jobs using keywords like "Azure Standard" or "Dufur, Oregon" (their headquarters location).
  • You can also filter your search by location and industry (e.g., retail, food service) to refine your results.

3. Contact them directly:

  • While they might not have open positions, consider expressing your interest by sending an email or calling their HR department. Briefly introduce yourself, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and express your enthusiasm for their company values and mission.

4. Consider Drop Point coordinator opportunities:

  • While not directly employed by Azure Standard, some Drop Points might be operated by individuals or businesses that might have occasional openings for coordinators who manage pick-up and distribution at their locations. You can inquire with your local Drop Point coordinator for any potential opportunities.

Remember, even though readily available job postings might be limited, proactive efforts like these can increase your chances of finding potential employment opportunities with Azure Standard.

Best Azure Standard products:

Determining the absolute "best" products at Azure Standard is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, based on customer reviews, sales figures, and overall quality, here are some of their highly-rated products across various categories:

Bulk Staples:

  • Organic Rolled Oats: A versatile and healthy breakfast option, these oats are a popular choice for baking and homemade granola as well.
  • Organic Brown Rice: A staple grain known for its nutty flavor and nutritional value.
  • Black Beans: A great source of protein and fiber, black beans are a versatile ingredient for various dishes.
  • Dried Cranberries: A naturally sweet and tart fruit perfect for snacking, trail mix, and baking.
  • Organic Coconut Oil: A versatile oil used for cooking, baking, and personal care.

Baking Essentials:

  • Organic All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient for various baked goods, from bread and cookies to cakes and pastries.
  • Organic Cane Sugar: A natural sweetener with a slightly different flavor profile compared to refined white sugar.
  • Baking Soda: A leavening agent used in baking to create rise and fluffiness.
  • Baking Powder: Another leavening agent that reacts with liquids to create lift in baked goods.
  • Sea Salt: A natural and unrefined salt that adds a distinct flavor to savory and sweet dishes.

Other Top-Rated Products:

  • Apple Cider Vinegar: A popular household product with various uses, including culinary applications and cleaning solutions.
  • Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A healthy and flavorful oil used for cooking, salad dressings, and marinades.
  • Organic Ground Cinnamon: A fragrant spice used in various sweet and savory dishes.
  • Stainless Steel Soap Dispenser: A refillable and eco-friendly option for dispensing liquid soap.
  • Organic Castile Soap: A versatile soap made from vegetable oils, suitable for various cleaning and personal care purposes.

It's important to remember that these are just a few examples, and Azure Standard offers a vast selection of products beyond this list. Explore their website or visit your local Drop Point to discover more options that suit your needs and preferences.

Is Azure Standard legitimate?

Azure Standard appears to be a legitimate company based on the following factors:

Established Business:
  • They have been in operation since 1987, indicating a long-standing presence in the market.
  • They have a physical headquarters and facilities in Dufur, Oregon, which can be verified through online maps and business directories.

Positive Customer Reviews:

  • They receive generally positive customer reviews on various platforms, praising their product quality, value for money, and commitment to organic and natural products. You can find reviews on sites like Trustpilot,  with an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars, and individual customer experiences shared on blogs and forums.
  • While some negative reviews exist, they often focus on specific aspects like product quality inconsistencies, delivery issues, or the unique bulk-buying system, which might not be suitable for everyone.

Transparency and Information:
  • They provide detailed information about their company, mission, practices, and products on their website.
  • They have a dedicated customer service department reachable by phone, email, and online form.

Media Coverage:
  • They have been featured in various news articles and publications, further establishing their presence in the organic and natural food industry.

However, it's important to remember that doing your own research is crucial before making any buying decisions.

Here are some additional points to consider:

  • Bulk buying and Drop Point system: This unique system might not be suitable for everyone, especially those who don't have the storage space or desire to purchase large quantities of products.
  • Minimum order requirements: Be mindful of minimum order requirements at your chosen Drop Point to avoid unexpected costs.
  • Product quality: While generally well-received, individual experiences can vary. It's recommended to read reviews and consider their return and exchange policy before purchasing.

By considering all the available information and conducting your own research, you can make an informed decision about whether or not Azure Standard is the right choice for you.

Does Azure Standard ship to home?

Azure Standard primarily operates through a network of designated pick-up locations called "Drop Points" and does not offer direct home delivery for most products. This unique system allows them to reduce costs associated with individual deliveries, which they pass on to their customers in the form of competitive pricing.

However, they do offer limited home delivery options for certain dry goods through economy parcel shipping via UPS or USPS. This option is not available for all products and typically comes with separate shipping fees added to your order.

Here's a summary:

  • Main option: Pick-up at designated Drop Points (most common)
  • Limited option: Home delivery for select dry goods through UPS or USPS (additional shipping fees apply)

It's important to note that availability and minimum order requirements for home delivery can vary depending on your location and chosen products. Be sure to check the specific details on their website before placing your order.

Here are some helpful resources:


* Azure Standard coupon:

While Azure Standard frequently offers various promotions and discounts, finding a currently valid coupon code can be challenging. Here are some resources and strategies you can try to find potential savings:

Official Channels:

  • Azure Standard website: Check their promotions page or browse their product listings for any advertised discounts or special offers. They might announce seasonal sales or offer bundle discounts on specific products.
  • Azure Standard email newsletter: Sign up for their email newsletter to receive updates on promotions, new product launches, and potentially exclusive coupon codes.

Third-party Coupon Sites:

  • Search online for "Azure Standard coupons" or similar keywords. However, be cautious of websites offering seemingly unrealistic discounts. Look for reputable coupon websites with user reviews and clear terms and conditions.

Community Forums and Reviews:

  • Check online forums or review sites where Azure Standard customers discuss their experiences. Sometimes, users might share coupon codes they have received or found elsewhere. Be wary of unsolicited offers or promotions that seem too good to be true.

General Tips:

  • Consider timing your purchases around potential sales periods like holidays or the end of seasons. Azure Standard might offer temporary discounts or promotions during these times.
  • Explore their loyalty program, if available, which could offer points or rewards for frequent purchases, potentially leading to future savings.
  • Compare prices with other retailers that sell similar products, especially for non-bulk items, to ensure you're getting the best value.

Remember, exercising caution when searching for online coupons is crucial. Don't enter your personal or financial information on untrusted websites, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown software.

It's important to note that we cannot directly provide specific coupon codes, as their validity and legitimacy can change frequently. However, by exploring the resources mentioned above, you can increase your chances of finding potential savings on your next Azure Standard purchase.

Azure Standard customer service:

Here's a summary of Azure Standard's customer service options:

Phone: They have a dedicated customer service phone number listed on their website: 1-800-227-8732. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time (PT).

Email: You can send them an email through their online contact form: https://www.azurestandard.com/frequently-asked-questions

Website: Their website features a comprehensive FAQ section covering various topics related to ordering, products, delivery, and account management: 

You can search for specific answers or browse through the categories.

Community Forum: While not directly affiliated with Azure Standard, they have a community forum on their website called the "Azure Standard Community Board" where you can connect with other customers and ask questions

Drop Point Coordinators: Each Drop Point has a designated coordinator who might be able to assist with questions about local operations and pick-up procedures. Contact information for the coordinator is usually listed on the Drop Point details page on the website's Drop Point Locator: 

Social Media: While they don't typically offer direct support through social media, you can find them on Facebook and Twitter:

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/azurestandard/
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/AzureStandard

Choosing the best option:

  • For urgent inquiries or time-sensitive issues, contacting them by phone or email would be the most efficient approach.
  • If you have a general question about their products, services, or policies, the website's FAQ section or community forum might be a good starting point.
  • For local inquiries about pick-up procedures or Drop Point operations, consider contacting your designated Drop Point coordinator.

Remember, choosing the appropriate channel for your specific needs will ensure a quicker and more efficient resolution to your inquiry.

Does Azure Standard accept EBT?

No, Azure Standard does not accept EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards for payment. This is explicitly stated on their website under the "Product Pricing & Billing" section:  specifically mentioning "SNAP subsidy cards" amongst other payment methods they don't accept.

EBT cards are used to distribute SNAP benefits, which is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families purchase food. Since Azure Standard focuses on bulk buying, which might not be suitable for everyone using EBT, and they have a unique delivery system through Drop Points, accepting EBT wouldn't be practical for their operations.

Here are some alternative payment methods accepted by Azure Standard:
  • Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express
  • Debit cards: With PIN and signature verification
  • Net 10 day terms: Available for businesses upon approval
If you're unsure about their payment methods or have further questions, you can contact their customer service through phone, email, or their online contact form

Azure Standard wholesale:

Azure Standard offers a wholesale program for qualified businesses, catering to those who require larger quantities of organic, natural, and non-GMO products at potentially lower prices compared to their regular offerings. Here are some key points about their wholesale program:

Eligibility:
  • To be eligible for a wholesale account, your business needs to:
    • Have a valid business license or registration.
    • Complete an Azure Business Account Application.
    • Complete the Azure business account reference request form.
    • Meet an annual minimum purchase order requirement of $10,000 or more.

Benefits:
  • Competitive pricing: By purchasing in bulk, businesses can potentially benefit from lower prices per unit compared to regular retail pricing.
  • Diverse product selection: They offer a wide range of products suitable for various businesses, including restaurants, cafes, health food stores, and more.
  • Dedicated support: Businesses with wholesale accounts receive dedicated customer service support from the Azure Standard wholesale team.

Process:
  • Inquire online: Submit a wholesale inquiry form on their website
  • Receive information: Once they receive your inquiry, they will email you with information about the program, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
  • Complete application: Submit the required documents and application forms.
  • Review and approval: Azure Standard will review your application and contact you regarding the approval status.

Additional points:
  • Delivery: They offer bulk order delivery through their network of Drop Points or direct to your business address (depending on location and order size).
  • Payment terms: Businesses with approved wholesale accounts might qualify for net 10 terms, meaning payment is due within 10 days of receiving the invoice.
  • Minimum order requirements: While the general minimum is $10,000 annually, specific minimums might apply depending on your chosen delivery method (Drop Point or direct delivery).

Overall, the Azure Standard wholesale program can be a good option for businesses seeking to purchase large quantities of organic and natural products at potentially competitive prices. However, it's important to carefully consider the eligibility requirements, minimum purchase requirements, and delivery options before applying for a wholesale account.

* Thrive market vs Azure Standard:

Both Thrive Market and Azure Standard offer online shopping options for organic, natural, and healthy groceries, but they cater to different needs and preferences through their unique features:

Thrive Market:
  • Membership-based: Requires a paid annual membership fee for access to discounted prices.
  • Focus: Wider variety of individual-sized and smaller-quantity items, including fresh produce, dairy, and meat alternatives.
  • Delivery: Direct delivery to your home address for a separate shipping fee.
  • Minimum order: No minimum order required.
  • Payment methods: Credit cards, debit cards, and Thrive Market gift cards.
  • Known for: Wider selection of brands, convenience of home delivery, frequent sales and promotions.

Azure Standard:
  • No membership fee: Open to everyone without requiring a paid membership.
  • Focus: Primarily bulk-buying options for staples, grains, nuts, seeds, and other dry goods.
  • Delivery: Pick-up at designated "Drop Points" located across the country, with limited home delivery options for specific dry goods at additional shipping costs.
  • Minimum order: Minimum order requirement might apply at your chosen Drop Point to cover shared shipping costs.
  • Payment methods: Credit cards, debit cards, and Net 10 terms for approved businesses.
  • Known for: Competitive pricing on bulk items, commitment to organic and natural products, community aspect of Drop Point pick-up.

Choosing between them depends on your needs:

  • Thrive Market might be a better choice if:
    • You prefer individual-sized items and fresh produce.
    • You value the convenience of home delivery.
    • You don't mind paying a membership fee for access to potential savings.

  • Azure Standard might be a better choice if:
    • You're looking for competitive pricing on bulk purchases.
    • You have the storage space for bulk items.
    • You don't mind picking up your order at a Drop Point or paying extra for limited home delivery of certain dry goods.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, buying habits, and priorities. Consider your budget, storage space, and desired level of convenience when making your decision.

* Azure Standard vs Costco:

Both Azure Standard and Costco offer bulk-buying options for various products, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Here's a comparison to help you choose the better option for you:

Focus:

  • Azure Standard: Primarily organic, natural, and non-GMO groceries, household items, and personal care products.
  • Costco: Broader range of products, including groceries (organic options available but not the main focus), household items, electronics, clothing, and more.

Membership:

  • Azure Standard: No membership required, open to everyone.
  • Costco: Requires a paid annual membership for access to their stores and products.

Delivery:

  • Azure Standard: Pick-up at designated Drop Points (limited home delivery for certain dry goods at additional cost).
  • Costco: In-store shopping with the option to purchase online for delivery or in-store pick-up (availability and fees vary).

Minimum Order:

  • Azure Standard: Minimum order requirement might apply at specific Drop Points.
  • Costco: No minimum order requirement.

Payment Methods:

  • Azure Standard: Credit cards, debit cards, and Net 10 terms for approved businesses.
  • Costco: Credit cards (limited debit card acceptance), cash at stores (may vary), and Costco Anywhere Visa® Card (optional).

Price:

  • Azure Standard: Can be competitive on bulk pricing for organic and natural products, but prices may vary depending on the specific item and location.
  • Costco: Generally known for competitive prices on various products, including bulk items, but not specifically focused on organic or natural options.

Additional factors to consider:

  • Selection: Azure Standard offers a wider selection of organic and natural products, while Costco has a broader overall product selection.
  • Storage space: Bulk buying requires storage space. Consider your capacity before purchasing large quantities.
  • Shopping experience: Azure Standard utilizes Drop Points, while Costco offers in-store shopping with the option for online ordering. Choose the experience that suits your preference.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the factors mentioned above to determine which option aligns best with your preferences.

* Azure Standard reviews:

Here's a summary of Azure Standard reviews from various sources, highlighting both positive and negative aspects:

Positive reviews:
  • Competitive pricing on bulk items, especially for organic and natural products: Many customers appreciate the potential cost savings compared to traditional grocery stores, particularly for frequently used staples.
  • High-quality products: Customers generally praise the quality and freshness of the products, with many specifically mentioning their satisfaction with organic options.
  • Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing: Customers who value eco-friendly practices and ethical sourcing principles often appreciate Azure Standard's focus on these aspects.
  • Positive experience with Drop Points: Some customers enjoy the community aspect of picking up their orders at Drop Points and interacting with other Azure Standard users.

Negative reviews:
  • Limited product selection: Compared to large grocery stores, Azure Standard offers a more limited selection of individual-sized items and fresh produce.
  • Inconvenient pick-up system: Some customers find the Drop Point pick-up system inconvenient, especially those who live far from a location or dislike the lack of direct home delivery options (except for limited dry goods).
  • Minimum order requirements: The minimum order requirements at some Drop Points can be inconvenient for customers who only need small quantities of specific items.
  • Inconsistencies in product quality: While generally well-received, some reviewers mention experiencing occasional inconsistencies in product quality or freshness.

Here are some resources where you can find more Azure Standard reviews:

  • Trustpilot:  https://www.trustpilot.com/review/azurestandard.com?page=1201 (Overall rating: 3 out of 5 stars)
  • YouTube Reviews: Several YouTube channels feature reviews and experiences with Azure Standard.

Remember:

  • Reviews are subjective and individual experiences can vary.
  • Consider the context and potential biases when reading reviews.
  • Conduct your own research and compare prices and offerings with other retailers before making a purchase decision.

By considering the positive and negative aspects highlighted in reviews and doing your own research, you can make an informed decision about whether Azure Standard is the right choice for you.


No comments:

Post a Comment

Popular Posts