Economists familiar with New Mexico report that rising inflation, particularly in essential food categories, continues to place a considerable strain on household budgets, making price sensitivity a key consumer driver in the state. For some time, significant portions of the state, particularly rural areas, have lacked easy access to affordable and healthy food options. This […]
Category: Association News
Posted inWholesaler/Distributor News, Association News, Feature, National
‘Co-opetition’ Encourages ROFDA Members To Share Ideas, Resources, Solutions
Operating a business these days is no easy feat. And today’s business climate is even more difficult for independent grocers. Competition, supply chain challenges and tight budgets mean everyone involved in the grocery industry needs to bring their “A” game all the time. Retailer Owned Food Distributors and Associates (ROFDA) is a national cooperative organization […]
Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, Frozen Food, National
NFRA Study: Promotions, Digital Integration Drive Consumer Shopping Behavior
The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) has released findings from its most recent comprehensive consumer behavior study, revealing shifts in how consumers grocery shop. The research, conducted in partnership with Morning Consult, surveyed 2,200 U.S. adults and analyzed behaviors and purchase motivators. “Convenience, inspiration and sustainability are shaping shopping behaviors, providing exciting opportunities […]
Posted inAssociation News, National, Specialty
Winter Fancy Food Show Highlights New Products, Emerging Trends
Specialty food and beverage industry professionals from around the world gathered Jan. 19-21 for the Specialty Food Association’s (SFA) 49th Winter Fancy Food Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Sponsored by Italy, the event drew some 1,100 exhibitors from around the world – across nearly 50 specialty food and beverage categories – and 12,000 participants. In addition […]
Posted inWholesaler/Distributor News, Association News, Feature, National
ROFDA Maintains Relevance By Adapting To Trends, Technologies, Challenges
Retailer Owned Food Distributors and Associates (ROFDA) has been around for more than 60 years, but the group has never been one to sit idle. From growing membership and expanding their conference to adjusting bylaws, ROFDA leaders continue to demonstrate they have independent grocers’ best interests at heart. “Our end goal is helping independent retailers […]
Posted inAssociation News, West
WAFC Adds Vallarta COO Hinojosa To Board Of Directors
The Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC) elected David Hinojosa of Vallarta Supermarkets to its board of directors during a meeting Jan. 25 in La Quinta, California. At Vallarta, Hinojosa is responsible for company-wide operations, including P&L, fresh departments, merchandising, sales, compliance, warehouses, risk management, continuous improvement, loss prevention and human resources. “We look forward […]
Posted inGuest Contributors, Association News, National
Consumer Trends Present New Opportunities To Leverage Fresh, Health, Wellness
Consumer trends in 2025 highlight a growing focus on health and wellness, presenting significant opportunities for independent grocers to adapt and thrive. Shoppers are increasingly prioritizing fresh, nutritious products and personalized solutions, driving a shift in how food retailers approach their offerings. Independent grocers, with their deep community connections and agility in meeting changing preferences, […]
Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, National
FMI, NielsenIQ Report: Shoppers Blend In-Store, Online Experiences
As grocery shopping enters a new era of digital transformation, FMI – The Food Industry Association and NielsenIQ have released a new report, “Digital Engagement Transforms Grocery Shopping,” which premiered at FMI’s Midwinter Executive Conference. The report found that more than 90 percent of shoppers participate in both online and in-store shopping. “Consumers are seamlessly […]