The National Grocers Association (NGA) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering independent grocers by continuing its partnership with the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA), with plans to co-locate at The NGA Show in Las Vegas from February 23-25, 2025. This event will mark another significant gathering that emphasizes the vital role of independent supermarkets in the grocery industry.
For this year’s event, more than 150 retailers attending were IGA members, showcasing a strong alignment between the NGA and IGA. This partnership will provide IGA members with exclusive educational content, networking opportunities, and insights tailored specifically for their needs. Notably, attendees can expect a dedicated IGA education track, which will include sessions led by industry experts, including a general session featuring John Ross, IGA President and CEO.
The co-located partnership highlights how organizations like NGA and IGA are dedicated to helping their members stay competitive in a market that is not only diverse but also rapidly changing. Independent grocers face challenges such as e-commerce growth, shifts in consumer preferences, and increasing competition from larger chains.
“This partnership enables us to provide our members with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace,” said Ross. “The NGA Show is the premier event for independent grocers, and by co-locating, we create an unmatched experience for our members and the entire independent grocery community.”
Moreover, the event will include the IGA Awards of Excellence ceremony, which honors outstanding achievements among IGA members, celebrating their contributions to the grocery sector. This recognition plays a crucial role in not only motivating individual retailers but also in showcasing best practices across the industry.
In addition to the dedicated educational opportunities, IGA members will gain access to all the exhibit offerings at The NGA Show. With over 350 exhibitors presenting innovations in food, technology, and operational resources, attendees are well-positioned to gather valuable insights and discover the latest trends shaping the grocery landscape.
The broad agenda will include roundtable discussions where attendees can engage with noted identities within the grocery sector. These discussions help attendees gain perspectives on overcoming common challenges while also driving growth in their businesses. The NGA Best Bagger Competition further adds a competitive edge, highlighting the importance of customer service and operational efficiency in today’s retail environment.
Greg Ferrara, NGA President and CEO, exclaimed, “As the flagship event for the independent supermarket industry, The NGA Show offers unparalleled opportunities for networking and learning. We look forward to hosting IGA retailers, wholesalers, and industry leaders. The focus on education and actionable insights is designed to inspire growth and future success for independent operators.”
The collaboration is also advantageous for suppliers looking to understand better the needs of independent retailers. Given that IGA is the largest voluntary supermarket network globally, connecting suppliers with thousands of locally owned and operated grocery stores in over 20 countries, attending the NGA Show provides them with essential networking opportunities.
Jamie Reesby, VP of Grocery at Clarion Events, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming collaboration: “This partnership is a natural fit, as both organizations are dedicated to empowering independent grocers. Together, we will provide attendees with greater access to resources, education, and solutions that can drive success for their businesses.”
As independent retailers navigate the dynamically shifting grocery landscape, the NGA Show, in association with IGA, represents a critical platform for connection, learning, and innovation. Registration is now available online, and IGA members can benefit from exclusive discounts on registration fees.
The future success of independent grocery operators lies in such collaborative efforts that not only address immediate industry needs but also lay the groundwork for ongoing development and success.
For more information about registration and participation, interested individuals can contact The NGA Show through their official channels.
