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 […]
Category: Association News
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 […]
Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, National
Badge Wins 2025 FMItech Pitch Competition
FMI – The Food Industry Association announced Badge as the champion of the fourth-annual FMItech Pitch Competition held during the FMI Midwinter Executive Conference Jan. 30-Feb. 2 on Marco Island, Florida. Three finalists presented food industry technology solutions, with conference attendees casting votes to determine the winner. “I’m thrilled to see how the FMItech Pitch Competition continues […]
Posted inAssociation News, West
CGA Elevates 3 Executives To New Positions
As the first step in a multi-pronged plan to ensure long-term growth and stability, the California Grocers Association (CGA) has promoted three executives. Jennifer Gold is now VP of people operations and administration, while Nate Rose has become VP of communications and public affairs and Beth Wright is executive director of events and sponsorship. Gold, […]