Nominations Now Open – Nominations Close December 12, 2025
Celebrating the Heart of the Grocery Industry
Now in its 4th year, the Exceptional Independents Awards honor the independent U.S. grocery operators whose innovation, dedication, and community leadership set them apart. Presented by Shelby Publishing, this annual program recognizes those who embody the spirit of independent grocery — resilient, customer-focused, and deeply connected to the communities they serve.
Family-owned independent U.S. grocery operators represent excellence across every corner of the food retail landscape.
Why It Matters
Independents are more than just businesses — they are neighbors, innovators, and essential providers who help keep America’s food system strong. The Exceptional Independents Awards are Shelby Publishing’s way of saying thank you and congratulations to those who make a difference every day.
“Independents are the backbone of our industry, and this awards program is an opportunity to recognize them for their contributions.”
– Stephanie Reid, President & COO,
Shelby Publishing
* If your independent grocery operator has already won an Exceptional Independents Award, they are still eligible to win again this year as long as they are still exceptional.
About the Award
Coverage of the 2025 winners appears in:
– The Shelby Report of the Midwest
– The Shelby Report of the Southeast
– The Shelby Report of the Southwest
– The Shelby Report of the West
– The Griffin Report of the Northeast
Each edition highlights regional leaders who continue to strengthen their communities and advance the grocery industry.