Acosta Group and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) are celebrating 40 years of collaboration that have united consumer brands, grocery retailers and community supporters to raise more than $102 million in support of research, care and advocacy for people living with neuromuscular diseases.
The milestone aligns with the 75th anniversary of MDA, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing research and multidisciplinary care for those affected by more than 300 neuromuscular conditions.
Since the partnership began in 1985, Acosta Group and its agency affiliates have worked with retailers and CPG brands nationwide through initiatives such as the “Aisles of Smiles” campaign, a shopper marketing effort designed to raise awareness and funding for MDA’s mission of helping people live longer, stronger and more independent lives.
“We are exceptionally proud to celebrate this milestone with Muscular Dystrophy Association as we elevate our efforts to build awareness, challenge stigmas and create opportunities for people of all abilities,” said Brian Wynne, president and CEO of Acosta Group.
“Our partnership with MDA reflects the passion and dedication of our associates, brand owner clients, and retail customers who have given so much of their time and resources to support these efforts. Together, we have made a meaningful difference for families living with neuromuscular diseases, and we look forward to the opportunities ahead to help advance MDA’s mission.”
Erin Feliciano, VP of corporate partnerships at MDA, highlighted the depth of the relationship and its impact.
“Acosta Group’s … teams, clients, and retail partners have shown time and again what it looks like to lead with passion, purpose and community,” Feliciano said.
“As we celebrate the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 75th anniversary, we are deeply grateful for the $102 million in impact and even more appreciative of the countless moments of hope, progress, and possibility this partnership has made possible. Together, we are shaping a future where every person living with a neuromuscular condition can live longer, grow stronger, and pursue their dreams with confidence.”
A highlight of the anniversary year was the annual “Aisles of Smiles” event held in Monterey, California, where more than 250 guests – including Acosta senior leaders, brand partners and retail executives – participated in fundraising activities that contributed $658,000 to MDA through in-store and digital marketing campaigns backed by eight grocery retailers and 33 CPG brands.
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