Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) launched its centennial celebration during its 2026 Innovation Showcase, marking 100 years since independent retailers united in 1926 to compete against the growing power of chain stores. Today, the cooperative serves 1,100 member companies and 3,500 locations across 33 states, making it the nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler. The Innovation Showcase […]
Category: Wholesaler/Distributor News
AWG’s Cooperative Strength Positions Independent Grocers For Future
As Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, the cooperative is reflecting on a century defined by independent spirit, shared success and an unwavering commitment to its members – while keeping its focus firmly on what comes next. Founded in 1926 by a group of independent grocers who believed they were stronger […]
UNFI Posts Q2 Profit Turnaround As Network Optimization Drives Margin Gains
United Natural Foods Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) reported second quarter fiscal 2026 net income of $20 million, reversing a $3 million net loss in the same period a year ago, as cost discipline and distribution network restructuring more than offset a 2.6 percent decline in net sales to $7.9 billion. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation […]
NRS, Krasdale Foods Form Partnership To Support Independent Bodegas
National Retail Solutions and Krasdale Foods have announced a strategic partnership, combining NRS’s point-of-sale technology with the grocer’s distribution network to serve independently owned bodegas and small-format stores across the Northeast. Developed over several years, the collaboration integrates NRS’s store-management platform with Krasdale’s supply-chain capabilities to deliver operational efficiency, data insights and profitability tools for […]
Banner Wholesale Grocers Marks 100 Years, 4 Generations
Chicago-based Banner Wholesale Grocers is marking its 100th anniversary in 2026, a milestone that spans four generations of family leadership and a century of serving independent grocers across the Midwest. Founded in 1926 by Ben Friedman, Banner has built its reputation as a wholesale partner through economic cycles, shifting consumer demands and significant changes in […]
Giumarra Companies Promotes Carmona, Lorusso To VP Roles
Los Angeles-based The Giumarra Companies has promoted Sebastian Carmona to VP of international development and Kristina Lorusso to VP of retail partner services. “As we continue to increase Giumarra’s capabilities and plan for long-term growth, I am pleased to congratulate Sebastian and Kristina in expanded leadership roles that will bring impactful value to our operations,” […]
KeHE Distributors Concludes 2026 Summer Show In Denver, CO
KeHE Distributors recently concluded its 2026 Summer Show in Denver, Colorado, and virtually on the KeHE CONNECT platform, welcoming more than 5,000 retailers, suppliers and industry partners. The event offered education, trend insights, buying opportunities and connections to help retailers and brands compete in an evolving grocery landscape. Designed to support planning for the summer […]
AWG Selects RELEX For AI-Driven Forecasting Across 3.5K Stores
Kansas City, Kansas-based Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) has selected RELEX Solutions to optimize distribution center forecasting and replenishment across its network of 3,500 member locations. AWG will implement the RELEX artificial intelligence-driven forecasting and replenishment solution to replace its legacy in-house proprietary systems and manual processes. The platform will deliver scalability and automation to improve forecasting […]
