National Grocers Association

08/31/2026

Two questions come up in nearly every conversation we have with independent grocers: Who is going to join our team? And who is going to lead my business when I no longer can?

The NGA Foundation's new strategic plan addresses both challenges head-on — and we're looking for a handful of industry leaders to help us turn that plan into real programs.

We're now forming two taskforces, and we'd like you at the table:

✔️ Cultivate Talent Taskforce: Advising on the programs and initiatives that will bring diverse, skilled, customer-focused talent into independent grocery -- and retain them once they are here

✔️ Preserve Independence Taskforce: Advising on the leadership pipeline and succession planning framework that preserves independent grocer identity for family, employee, and privately owned companies across generations.

What it involves: Taskforce members serve as advisors to the Foundation. They offer insight and guidance on the programs we should pursue, and champion them once we build them. Participation requires periodic virtual meetings, where memberss help shape and refine our approach.

Who we're looking for: Industry leaders who understand these challenges and are passionate about solving them. If that's you or someone on your team, we want to hear from you.

Reach out to Chelsea at [email protected], and we'll share more on expectations and timing.

08/27/2026

The Shelby Report - Sendik's Donates $175K To Stars And Stripes Honor Flight

Sendik’s Food Market and their customers have donated $175,000 to Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, supporting the annual trip that takes Wisconsin veterans to the war memorials in Washington, D.C.

“We are so proud to partner with Stars and Stripes Honor Flight to provide our local veterans with an unforgettable day in appreciation of their service,” said Ted Balistreri, co-owner of Sendik’s Food Market. “We would like to thank our generous customers for their generous contribution to support such a vital organization. We are continually inspired by the dedication of our communities to honor Wisconsin’s heroes.”

Sendik's Food Market and its customers raised $175,000 for Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, sending Wisconsin veterans to Washington, D.C.

08/26/2026

Ready to gain a competitive edge? The NGA Executive Conference brings together grocery industry decision-makers for expert forecasts, market trends, and valuable networking opportunities. Join us October 20-22, 2026, in Chicago and be part of the conversations driving the future of independent grocery.

Learn more: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/news-events/executive-conference/

National Grocers Association

08/24/2026

Who invested in you? Who gave you an opportunity before you were completely ready? Who challenged you to grow, trusted you with responsibility, and helped you become the leader you are today?

And who is doing that for the next generation of independent grocers?

NGA’s new Catalyst for Independence Award recognizes leaders whose impact is measured not only by what they have accomplished but by the people they have developed, empowered and prepared to lead.

The NGA Foundation is looking for leaders who:

✔ Invest in mentorship and talent development
✔ Empower others through responsibility and accountability
✔ Build strong succession and continuity
✔ Leave a lasting impact on independent grocery

Think about the person who helped shape your career or the leader you see doing that for others today. The recipient of this award will be recognized at the upcoming Executive Conference & Public Policy Summit in Chicago!

Submit a nomination here: https://form.jotform.com/261935743361057

08/21/2026

📸 Some throwback photos from last year’s Executive Conference & Public Policy Summit

Over three impactful days, independent grocers, wholesalers, and supplier partners from across the country came together for strategy sessions, advocacy updates, meaningful networking, and conversations about the future of the independent grocery industry.

This year, we are taking the Executive Conference to Chicago for !

Register here: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/news-events/executive-conference/

With a dynamic lineup of events, sessions, and speakers, this year’s conference is shaping up to be one of our best yet, giving attendees valuable insights, new connections, and actionable strategies to help gain a competitive advantage in today’s marketplace.

We can’t wait to see you in Chicago!

Lock in your registration here: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/news-events/executive-conference/

08/19/2026

💡 NGA Executive Conference Session Preview: The Independent Advantage - What 5,000 Shoppers Reveal About Grocery's Next Chapter

Consumers are telling us two things at once; they love what makes independent different, and exactly where we need to evolve.

This session at the upcoming Executive Conference in Chicago will reveal findings for the first consumer sentiment study, conducted by NGA & The Feedback Group

The Executive Conference is NGA’s annual event for decision-makers and leadership teams to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace through in-depth forecasts on the future of the industry, outlooks of emerging economic and business trends, and opportunities to strengthen relationships with trading partners throughout the supply chain.

Register here: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/news-events/executive-conference/

08/19/2026

Registration is open for the 2026 NGA Executive Conference in Chicago!

Join independent owners, operators, CEOs, senior and wholesalers for three days of candid conversations, consumer and economic insights, and valuable face time with the people making decisions across the industry.

📍 Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park
👉 Register now:

The Executive Conference is NGA’s annual event for decision-makers and leadership teams to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace through in-depth

08/19/2026

The NGA Foundation Is Here to Help You Preserve What You Have Built

For many independent , the most pressing question isn't what's happening today…it's what happens next.

Whether you're thinking about passing your business to family, transitioning to employee ownership, or planning for the road ahead, the stakes couldn't be higher.

❓ If you're facing these questions or know someone who is, reach out: https://www.nationalgrocers.org/foundation/contact-the-nga-foundation/

08/17/2026

Congratulations to these Fareway Stores baggers on a strong showing during the Iowa Best Bagger Contest at the Iowa State Fair! 👏👏