Jason Ferreira, a member of Allegiance Retail Services, a supermarket grocery services co-op, was recognized by Shelby Publishing in its third annual Exceptional Independents Awards program, which celebrates the contributions of independent retailers across the industry.
Ferreira, who owns and operates Foodtown stores in the New York City area, was honored for his achievements in three areas – tech innovation, philanthropic support and advocacy for community safety and crime prevention.
Ferreira was the first to launch mobile shopping capabilities in his supermarkets, recognizing early the potential to enhance customer experience and expand market reach.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from Shelby Publishing,” he said. “This award reflects not just my efforts but the collective innovation and dedication of the entire team at our Foodtown supermarkets and at Allegiance Retail Services.”
Ferreira’s philanthropic endeavors include serving as a board member for the Foundation Fighting Blindness and co-chairing Night for Sight events, where he has been instrumental in raising millions of dollars to support research and treatment for visual impairment.
In addition, his advocacy work in community safety and crime prevention has made an impact through engagement with legislators and public awareness campaigns.
“Being at the forefront of tech innovation while contributing to causes that make a meaningful difference in our communities has been incredibly rewarding,” Ferreira said. “I’m grateful to be part of an organization that supports both business excellence and community engagement.”
Ferreira’s approach to retail technology has not only positioned his supermarkets at the cutting edge of the industry, but his commitment to charitable causes has also demonstrated the company’s community-first mindset.
Joseph Fantozzi, president and COO of ARS, said Ferreira’s “exemplifies the values and vision that drive Allegiance Retail Services forward. We are immensely proud of Jason and his well-deserved recognition.”
The Exceptional Independents Awards represent one of the grocery industry’s most significant recognitions for independent retailers. They collectively highlight national trends and achievements that are shaping the future of independent grocery.
“Independents are the backbone of our industry, and this awards program is an opportunity to recognize them for their contributions,” said Stephanie Reid, president of Shelby Publishing, in a statement. “Independents are a vital part of their communities and lead the way in caring for their customers.”
[RELATED: ARS President, COO Named 2025 CIFI Person Of Year]
About Allegiance Retail Services
Allegiance Retail Services supports independent supermarkets’ (e.g., Foodtown, Freshtown, D’Agostino, Gristedes, Morton Williams, Pathmark, LaBella Marketplace, Brooklyn Harvest, Market Fresh, Big Deal Food Market, Green Way Markets, Marrazzo’s Market, Brigidos Fresh Markets, Peck’s Markets, Bloomingdale Supermarket by Foodtown,and Shop n Bag) retail success by providing them with marketing, advertising, technological and merchandising support, as well as a full line of private label products, including Foodtown, Green Way and Rancher’s Legend.