Posted inProduce News, Association News, Feature, National, The Kroger Co.

IFPA Officials Preview Fresh Produce & Floral Show

“Make the most of these three days in October.” That’s the advice of Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), referring to the 2024 Global Fresh Produce & Floral Show, coming up Oct. 17-19 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. “We’re really excited to be in Georgia this year after […]

Posted inBakery News, Association News, Dairy News, Deli News, Executive News, National

IDDBA Combines Teams, Promotes Atkins

The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) has combined its marketing and membership teams and promoted Whitney Atkins as VP of the newly formed marketing and membership department. “Since joining the association, Whitney has led marketing efforts that have produced event and membership growth, while working hard for the association’s endeavors to support the industry […]

Posted inProduce News, Association News, National

Driving Fresh Produce Sales With SNAP

At a time when access to nutritious food is critical, independent grocers play a pivotal role in serving diverse communities and promoting healthy eating habits. The National Grocers Association Foundation Technical Assistance Center hosted a recent webinar that delved into innovative strategies and best practices for increasing fresh produce sales among SNAP recipients, while simultaneously […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Association News, Harps Food Stores, Southwest

Association Executive Director Says Arkansas Economy Moving In Positive Direction

Sales tax collections and metro population totals both have been up in Arkansas over the past year, according to Steve Goode, executive director of the Arkansas Grocers & Retail Merchants Association in Little Rock. “The overall economy is doing slightly better than a year ago,” he said. Sales tax collections are up by 1.8 percent […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Association News, Midwest

Store Count Growing – But More Needed – In Financially Strong Iowa

At its March meeting, Iowa’s Revenue Estimating Conference projected a 2.2 percent decrease in revenue in fiscal 2024 versus fiscal 2023. But the panel also forecasted increased revenue in FY 2025 and 2026, at 0.7 percent and 1 percent respectively, noted Michelle Hurd, president of the Iowa Grocery Industry Association (IGIA). “Despite the slight revenue […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Albertsons, Association News, The Kroger Co., West

Retail Theft Reform Solutions Emerging In California

With less than a month to go, officials at the California Grocers Association have been busy preparing for their annual CGA Strategic Conference. The focus of the Palm Springs event, which runs from Sept. 29-Oct. 1, is emerging technologies. From informative educational sessions to retailer/supplier meetings, the three-day conference will give attendees the opportunity to […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Association News, Northeast

Retail Grocery Industry Across New York Undergoing Recalibration

It has taken a while, but the grocery industry in New York is beginning to return to normal levels. While this is positive news, grocers in the state still face some formidable challenges. Mike Durant, president and CEO of the Food Industry Alliance of New York, pointed out that grocers in the state are experiencing similar […]

Posted inGuest Contributors, Association News, National

Traceability Resource Center Gives Independent Grocers Food Safety Boost

September is National Food Safety Education Month, a perfect opportunity for independent grocers to pay extra attention to and raise awareness of an issue that’s already a top priority in their daily business. This boost in awareness is particularly timely in the wake of a recent listeria outbreak affecting deli meats and the presence of […]