Celebrate Earth Day With Sustainable Organic Produce

Earth Day (April 22) is the perfect time to highlight the benefits of organic produce and how it plays a crucial role in sustainability. With growing consumer interest in environmentally friendly choices, organic produce presents a great opportunity to meet demand while also supporting sustainable agriculture. Why organic matters Organic farming works hand in hand […]

Posted inOrganic Natural, Association News, Feature, National, News

Beyond Organic: CEO On Redefining Health, Industry Honesty

Karen Howard has served as CEO and executive director of Organic & Natural Health Association in Washington, D.C., since its inception in 2014. She has championed causes such as defining the term “natural,” promoting quality manufacturing, ensuring traceable sourcing, advancing regenerative farming, advocating for sustainable practices, addressing nutrient deficiencies and propelling vitamin D research and […]

Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, Feature, National, News, Private Label Brands

FMI Committees Doing Important Work On Private Brands, AI, Asset Protection

Doug Baker, VP of industry relations for FMI – The Food Industry Association, spoke to The Shelby Report during the association’s recent Midwinter Executive Conference on Marco Island, Florida. Baker touched on three topics that are of interest to FMI’s membership and the food industry as a whole – private brands, technology advancements and asset […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Market Profile, Midwest, News

Hometown Market Committed To Community, Family Connection

Independent grocery stores play a vital role in rural communities, but inflation, competition from big-box retailers and other challenges are putting increasing pressure on their operations. Blake Schwartz, owner of Hometown Market in St. Paul, Nebraska, said labor issues specifically are greatly impacting independents in his state. With Nebraska’s minimum wage set to rise to […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Association News, Market Profile, Midwest

Nebraska Grocery Industry Faces Challenges, Opportunities Amid Economic Shifts

Nebraska’s grocery industry is at a crossroads as economic conditions shift and legislative policies evolve. Ansley Fellers, executive director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, highlighted for The Shelby Report key concerns facing independent grocers, including competition from dollar stores, rising labor costs and wholesale pricing challenges. Nebraska’s economy is experiencing modest growth, influenced by […]