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 inIndependent Store News, Corporate Store News, Market Profile, Northeast

More Food Markets Sought Across Washington, D.C.

The Washington, D.C., Economic Partnership, a 501(c)(3) organization that promotes sustainable, equitable and inclusive economic development, says grocery stores and other food markets continue to be sought-after in the District. “Grocery stores are in high demand in Washington, D.C., due to an increasing population and a focus on investments that provide fresh food options in […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Market Profile, Midwest

Jim’s Market Navigates Challenges In Minnesota’s Retail Food Landscape

Paul Huber, president of Jim’s Market in Canby, Minnesota, has spent most of his life in the grocery business. From the time he began helping at his father’s store at age 12, Huber has remained dedicated to continuing his family’s tradition of running an independent grocery store. However, as he faces a rapidly changing industry, […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Market Profile, West

At Hawaii-Based KTA, ‘We Are What We Are Because Of Our Community’

Toby Taniguchi is the yonsei of his family’s company on the Big Island of Hawai’i. That is, he is the fourth generation to lead the business, Puna Plantation Hawaii Ltd., based in Hilo. The company comprises businesses including six KTA Super Stores, KTA Express, five KTA Pharmacy locations and K. Takata Store, which Puna Plantation […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Association News, West

Beauty, Challenges Are Dual Realities In Isolated, Expensive Hawaii

For all its natural beauty, welcoming people and myriad other charms, Hawaii does have its share of challenges economically, which impact the islands’ food store operators. Alexis Chapman, director of operations for the Hawaii Food Industry Association in Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, said the state’s economy is growing but still faces some unique […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Market Profile, Southeast

Employee-Owned Food Giant Serves Rural MS By Focusing On Price, Quality

Location, customer service, price and quality are just a few of the attributes that help Food Giant stores in northern Mississippi stand out. The Shelby Report of the Southeast recently visited with David Holcomb, division manager, to learn more about the company’s competitive strategy. How long has Food Giant been operating in Mississippi? Kenneth Storey, […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Amazon Fresh, Northeast, Whole Foods

High Per Capita Income Of Maryland Residents Makes For Competitive Grocery Market

It may be the 42nd largest state, but Maryland has consistently ranked among the nation’s top in terms of per capita income over the past few years. Its economy benefits greatly from its proximity to Washington, D.C., where many of its residents work. This higher-than-average income level continues to positively impact spending in the state. […]