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, […]
Category: Association News
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, […]
Posted inAssociation News, National
FMI Hails 2025 Executive Leadership Award Recipients
FMI – The Food Industry Association has honored eight executives with the 2025 Executive Leadership Award for embodying the core values of the food industry through their community engagement, innovation and exceptional customer service The awards, which were presented during FMI’s Midwinter Executive Conference on Marco Island, Florida, went to: SPAR International’s Tobias Wasmuht; H-E-B’s James Harris; […]
Posted inAssociation News, Market Profile, Midwest
Minnesota Grocers Grapple With Labor Mandates, Population Decline
Minnesota’s grocery industry is navigating a period of significant economic and workforce transformation. According to Patrick Garofalo, president of the Minnesota Grocers Association, the state’s stagnant economy and shifting demographics are creating challenges for businesses, particularly independent grocers. In 2024, Minnesota’s economy experienced modest growth, with its GDP reaching $394.7 billion, which is a 1.4 […]
Posted inExecutive News, Association News, National
NGA Foundation Seeking ELDP Nominations
The National Grocers Association (NGA) Foundation is accepting nominations for grocery industry leaders to participate in its Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP), which is set for June 1-5 at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Sponsored by PepsiCo, the ELDP is reserved for employees of retailer and wholesaler members of NGA. Participants should be mid- […]
Posted inAssociation News, National
FMI Promotes Key Leaders In Three Departments
FMI – The Food Industry Association has announced three promotions – Peter Collins to VP of business development and membership; Ashley Eisenbeiser to VP of food and product safety programs; and Deborah Stewart to director of registration services. “Our members appreciate that FMI’s core strength resides in the dedication and expertise of its talented staff,” said […]