At the time of this writing, the first 100 days of the new congressional session are wrapping up, and the National Grocers Association (NGA) has secured major victories that will ease regulatory burdens, promote fair competition and protect independent grocers nationwide.
From advocating for antitrust enforcement to blocking costly energy regulations, NGA’s efforts are making a tangible difference for the independent grocery community.
Cutting Red Tape: Regulatory Relief from the EPA
Independent grocers scored a significant win when the Environmental Protection Agency announced it would roll back restrictive regulations on high global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The previous rules imposed a significant compliance burden on small businesses, requiring them to transition to low GWP HFC refrigerants at considerable expense.
Thanks to NGA’s advocacy – through action alerts, letters to EPA officials and engagement with the White House – the EPA reconsidered these mandates, offering much-needed relief to grocers struggling with rising operational costs.
Delaying a Costly FDA Rule
Last month, the FDA’s decision to push back the Food Traceability Rule by 30 months was a big win for independent grocers who were facing an unrealistic deadline.
Originally set to take effect in January 2026, the rule would have required extensive tracking systems that smaller retailers weren’t equipped to implement on such short notice. NGA was vocal about the challenges this posed, warning that the rapid rollout would hit independent grocers the hardest – potentially forcing them to absorb enormous costs, raise prices or even shut their doors.
By securing this delay, NGA helped ensure that independent grocers get the time they need to adapt, keeping shelves stocked and prices reasonable for their customers.
But this decision is about more than just a deadline extension – it’s a step toward smarter, more practical policymaking. Independent grocers aren’t opposed to food safety and transparency, but regulations need to account for the realities of running a small business.
The extra time allows for a more balanced approach, where compliance can be achieved without putting local grocers at risk. NGA will continue working with the FDA to ensure future policies support both food safety and the sustainability of independent grocers.
[RELATED: FDA Extends Date For FSMA 204 Compliance]
Fair Competition: FTC Enforces the Robinson-Patman Act
For decades, independent grocers have faced an uneven playing field, watching as national chains secured preferential pricing while small retailers paid more for the same products. In January, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) made history for a second time by enforcing the Robinson-Patman Act, targeting a beverage company for allegedly providing discounts to a large national chain while excluding smaller retailers.
This landmark case aligns with concerns NGA has long raised about anti-competitive practices of power buyers in the grocery sector. With a new Congress and administration in place, NGA will continue to push for further investigations and ensure that the progress made isn’t undone.
[RELATED: NGA Commends FTC’s Enforcement Of Robinson-Patman Act]
Keeping the Momentum Going
While these wins are worth celebrating, the fight isn’t over. Independent grocers continue to face challenges, and NGA is calling on its members to stay engaged and take action:
- Write to Congress: Encourage lawmakers to support the enforcement of the Robinson-Patman Act and push back against unnecessary regulations.
- Donate to the Fund for Fair Competition: Help NGA continue its advocacy efforts to level the playing field for independent grocers.
- Host a store or warehouse tour: Invite policymakers to see firsthand how independent grocers operate and the challenges they face.
These first 100 days laid a strong foundation for a year of impactful advocacy. Through continued engagement, NGA and its members can help shape policies that protect independent grocers and maintain a competitive marketplace. The bottom line? These victories prove that when independent grocers speak up, policymakers listen – but there’s still much work to be done!
[RELATED: NGA Introduces Fair Markets, Fresh Choices Advocacy Campaign]