East Texas Lighthouse was recognized with Grainger’s 2022 Partners in Performance Award. Grainger, a distributor of maintenance, repair and operating supplies, presents the award to a select group of suppliers for outstanding performance throughout the year.
Grainger’s Partners in Performance Award honors suppliers who achieve excellence in several categories including responsiveness, information integrity, on-time shipping, variability, management commitment and order fulfillment, according to a press release.
“We are delighted to be named one of Grainger’s 2022 Partners in Performance,” said Leona Holloman, Lighthouse President/CEO. “It is an honor to be recognized in such a distinguished group of world class suppliers. This award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to our customers in providing superior customer service and top-quality products with the distinction of Empowering the Blind.”
Grainger suppliers receive ratings throughout the year on their performance in each category, according to the release. Out of Grainger’s more than 3,500 High-Touch suppliers, fewer than 1 percent are chosen to receive these awards.
“Grainger is proud to recognize East Texas Lighthouse among a select group of suppliers who add value for the customers and communities we are privileged to serve,” said Matt Fortin, Group Vice President, Merchandising and Supplier Management. “Partnership is key to our success, and we want to thank East Texas Lighthouse for their exceptional support and commitment to excellence.”
East Texas Lighthouse operates its manufacturing division as Horizon Industries, offering industrial wipes, towels, oil rags, and paracord. They are one of the largest federal contractors in Tyler and happen to also be the largest employer of those who are blind or visually impaired.
Alicia Lansford, Lighthouse Chief Mission Officer, hopes the award provides an example of how employing those who are blind and visually impaired can contribute to success.
“This award is particularly important because it recognizes our team’s performance and commitment to excellence in comparison to other companies who may not have a mission to empower and employ those who are blind,” Lansford said. “Grainger didn’t select us because we employ those who are blind. We were recognized because we employ people who are awesome, take pride in their work, value customer service and provide quality products. The fact that many of them happen to be blind is just icing on the cake.”
