The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC) is kicking off the 2026 white shark research season with a search to find a shark to name “Marty” after Stop & Shop’s in‑store robot Marty.
AWSC researchers will name the first newly identified great white shark of the season “Marty,” a salute to Stop & Shop’s renewed partnership and ongoing commitment to supporting AWSC’s shark research, education, and conservation efforts.
Stop & Shop will release limited‑edition White Shark Marty plush toys, with 20 percent of proceeds donated to AWSC. The plushies will be available in all Stop & Shop stores beginning June 22 while supplies last.
“This partnership is a fun and engaging way to connect people to white shark research happening right off our coast,” said Cynthia Wigren, co‑founder and CEO of AWSC.
“Each summer brings new discoveries, and we’re excited to invite the public to follow along on the research team’s Marty mission to tag the season’s first newly identified shark. AWSC works to advance the conservation of sharks through science, education and outreach. By helping people recognize the vital role sharks play in healthy ocean ecosystems, we strive to foster informed coexistence and inspire appreciation for these remarkable animals.”
AWSC encourages beachgoers across Cape Cod and the Islands to be “Shark Smart” by downloading the Sharktivity app and following safety practices: paying attention to flags and signs, staying close to shore and avoiding areas where seals are present. In‑store signage in Massachusetts Stop & Shop locations will highlight the campaign and include QR codes directing customers to AWSC’s Sharktivity app and website.
“This is our second year partnering with AWSC to celebrate the summer season on the Cape & Islands, where it’s important to help raise awareness around shark safety and conservation,” said Roger Wheeler, president of Stop & Shop. “I’m personally excited to add the White Shark Marty plush to my collection and to follow along as AWSC’s researchers hit the waters to find the real ‘Shark Marty’.”
About Atlantic White Shark Conservancy
Since 2013, AWSC has worked in collaboration with shark science experts, community partners, researchers and others to augment scientific research, improve public safety, and educate the community to inspire greater understanding of white sharks and conservation. The organization supports multiple long‑term research projects with scientists from Canada to Florida and operates a Shark Center in Chatham, Massachusetts.
About Stop & Shop
Stop & Shop is a neighborhood grocer for more than 100 years, headquartered in Quincy, Massachusetts. An Ahold Delhaize USA Company, Stop & Shop employs nearly 50,000 associates and operates more than 350 stores throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, and New Jersey.