In a win for independent grocers, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has rolled back regulations targeting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in refrigeration systems, a move the National Grocers Association (NGA) calls “a critical step toward leveling the playing field” for community-focused supermarkets.
The decision, announced March 12, eliminates costly compliance mandates that burden small and independent grocery operators, freeing resources to reinvest in store operations, workforce development and price stability for consumers.
Deregulation Details: What Grocers Need to Know
The EPA’s action, led by Administrator Lee Zeldin under the second Trump Administration, addresses two key pain points for the grocery sector:
- Reversal of HFC Restrictions: Burdensome rules governing the manufacture, import, sale and use of high global warming potential (GWP) HFCs – common in commercial refrigeration – have been rescinded.
- Elimination of Low-GWP Mandates: The requirement for grocers to adopt low-GWP refrigerants, which often require costly equipment retrofits, has been repealed.
For independent grocers, these changes mean avoiding steep upfront costs to overhaul refrigeration systems – expenses that national chains absorb more easily due to economies of scale. Chris Jones, NGA’s Chief Government Relations Officer, emphasized the financial relief.
“Reducing unnecessary regulations, particularly those that impose significant financial and administrative burdens, is a crucial step toward leveling the playing field for independent grocers who are less equipped to deal with costly new compliance requirements.
“With the Trump Administration’s dedication to cutting through red tape, the EPA’s actions can now free up resources for independent grocers to focus on improving store operations, expanding local job opportunities and keeping grocery prices affordable for American families.”
Why This Matters for Independent Grocers
Independent grocers operate on razor-thin margins, with NGA emphasizing that regulatory compliance costs remain a significant financial strain. The Biden-era HFC rules, part of a broader environmental push, threatened to compound these challenges.
“With this announcement, the Administration will protect small businesses such as grocers and restaurants from onerous regulations that would drive up operating costs and force them to pass that cost on to the consumer,” said Congressman Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), who championed the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions to overturn the rules.
FMI – The Food Industry Association shared their support, applauding the EPA for reconsidering the rule.
“FMI is pleased the EPA has agreed to reconsider the Technology Transitions Rule to allow EPA time to review the incredible burdens placed on the food industry and its unrealistically tight implementation timelines,” FMI President and CEO Leslie Sarasin commented.
“A thorough evaluation of the rule in its current form is critical to preventing grocery stores across the country from paying billions in unnecessary refrigeration premiums that would have further driven up food prices. A balanced approach will provide retail stores with much-needed assurance given the implementation challenges due to lack of available technology, installers and other factors.”
NGA’s Advocacy: A Blueprint for Grocery Industry Influence
NGA’s months-long campaign – including member action alerts, White House meetings and bipartisan CRA support – showcases the power of collective advocacy. The association continues to push for policies that balance environmental goals with operational feasibility, such as incentivizing – rather than mandating – green refrigeration transitions.
[RELATED: NGA Backs Senate Resolution To Overturn EPA’s Final Rule]
Looking Ahead
As the EPA’s changes take effect, independent grocers should consult HVAC partners to assess refrigeration system options. While low-GWP refrigerants are no longer required, some operators may still explore phased upgrades to align with consumer demand for eco-conscious practices—but now on their own terms.
NGA plans to collaborate with the EPA and Congress on future policies, ensuring Main Street grocers retain a seat at the table. For now, the sector celebrates a rare regulatory reprieve – one that underscores the importance of advocacy in shaping a resilient, competitive grocery landscape.