In a world occupied by many supermarket chains, it's easy to overlook the commitment and value of independent grocery stores. Independent grocery stores, privately owned food retailers that may be family-owned, employee-owned, or publicly traded, are typically cornerstones of communities that offer a unique inventory and shopping experience. Many of these stores rely on resources from supporters to help them operate and stay competitive. Here are some of the reasons independent grocers continue to be successful with growing numbers of grocery chains and restrictions.
For independent grocers, finding substantial resources is a difficult and necessary objective. In order to have lasting success, grocers may rely on industry groups and organizations to provide the tools needed to make their business thrive. Organizations like National Grocers Association (NGA), a group dedicated to supporting the independent grocery industry through advocacy and service and connections, or Retailer Owned Food Distributors & Associates (ROFDA), formed to help enhance the success of independent retail grocers with resources, relationships, and best practices, provide resources, contacts, and services independent grocers can use to expand and maintain their business operations. These organizations offer services like training and education courses, group strategy meetings, and referrals for new business opportunities with existing members.
Many independent grocers prioritize quality over quantity, and this commitment often translates to a better experience for the consumer. Independent grocers often source ingredients from local farms and businesses, offer specialized options, or offer specialty items that meet their standards. These stores understand the demand for quality goods and services, and consistently provide a unique experience that offsets the standardization of big box store competitors.
A major draw to smaller, independent retail or grocery stores is the unique shopping experience and personalized service. These stores often take time to understand the needs of their customers, providing personalized service and recommendations. Employees are typically knowledgeable, passionate, and service oriented. This level of expertise and customer care is a refreshing change from the often impersonal experience of larger chains, allowing them to be more responsive to the needs of their customers. Whether it’s carrying a wider range of specialty items, specific cuisines, or products for unique culinary interests, independent grocers often take the opportunity to create a more personalized shopping experience for all.
Independent grocers and retailers are vital to the health of their communities. Not only do they create local jobs and support other small businesses, they often adapt to societal shifts or changing times to support the communities that continue to shop local. As the National Survey of Grocery Shoppers reported, 80% of shoppers prefer their local store to an online alternative provided by large chains. While some grocers remain unchanged, many have taken advantage of technology advances offering additional services like online shopping, order pick up, and delivery. By offering the same services as other competitors, local grocers continue to cater to their community while building trust and loyalty from shoppers.
While large chain stores may hold a comfortable position in the grocery industry, independent grocers offer a unique and valuable alternative. They provide a more personalized, engaging, and community-focused experience that helps their business prosper. Thanks to the support of their local communities and industry groups, independent grocers have come to account for more than 30% of overall US grocery sales. With a continuous focus on adaptability and meeting the needs of their communities, independent grocers continue to establish themselves amongst larger competitors.
As a supporter of the independent grocery industry for many years, Edict Systems helps businesses remain competitive with EDI solutions that meet their needs. From data mapping services designed to replace costly translators, to web-based solutions that make doing EDI possible within days, Edict Systems helps grocers in a multitude of industries lower costs and maximize their business efforts.
Learn how Renfro Foods used Edict Systems' EDI solutions throughout their business growth.
Learn how Renfro Foods used Edict Systems' EDI solutions throughout their business growth.
The NGA Show - February 23-25, 2025
The National Grocers Association (NGA) represents independent supermarket operations around the country. The NGA show brings together retailers and the wholesalers who serve them along with Consumer-Packaged Goods manufacturers to learn, engage, share, and network.
Edict Systems uses the NGA show to meet with wholesalers who provide goods and services to the independent operators throughout the country. We enjoy discussing how implementing EDI and expanding grocers’ EDI capabilities can create tremendous cost saving opportunities for their organization.
Consider joining our Trading Network to take advantage of our programs for grocers of all sizes.