Progressive Grocer - August/September 2009 - (Page 50)

Independent Thinking The crucial industry sector speaks out N.G.A. Annual Independent Grocers Survey: Cream of the Crop Independents rise to the challenge of competition, embracing innovation and technology. The N.G.A. Annual Independent Grocers Survey reveals that retailers continued their assault on managing costs and looked for opportunities to create consumer value and improve margins, with increased net profits of 36 basis points. By Frank DiPasquale, EVP, National Grocers Association A s I review the results of this year’s Independent Grocers Survey, it is a poignant time for the independent retailer segment of the food/grocery industry. It was 13 years ago that I joined the National Grocers Association (N.G.A.). Back then, I was counseled by friends not to “make the move” to N.G.A. because the inde- pendent sector was doomed as the supercenters would steamroll them into oblivion. I did not believe that would happen. Well, it happened to some, but many worked hard, competed smart and, as a consequence, have performed quite well. Additionally, this is Tom Zaucha’s last year at the helm of the N.G.A. His stewardship was instrumental to ensure the via- Discover emerging trends and hundreds of new certiﬁed-kosher products to feed your bottom line. Kosherfest is the perfect platform for more than 300 exhibitors from around the world to introduce the latest trends and their newest products. See them all in one place at the leading kosher food and beverage trade event. Register Today and SAVE $30 off the onsite registration fee! 2 Easy Ways to Register Online: www.kosherfest.com Call: 972-620-3019 Please provide Priority Code 100065 when registering. October 27–28, 2009 Meadowlands Exposition Center Secaucus, NJ Produced by: www.kosherfest.com 50 • Progressive Grocer • August/September 2009 www.progressivegrocer.com http://www.kosherfest.com http://www.hamacher.com/HamacherPromoCD/frapromo_setup.htm http://www.kosherfest.com http://www.kosherfest.com http://www.progressivegrocer.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Progressive Grocer - August/September 2009

Progressive Grocer - August/September 2009
Contents
Nielsen’s Shelf Stoppers/Spotlight: Alcoholic Beverages/Light Beer
CES: Inside the Market Basket: Economical Choices Bring Grocery Gains
Lempert Report: Earth-Friendly Isn’t Everything
Store of the Month: Kosher Country
Executive Insights: A View From Tops
Independents Report: Become a Leader Your Associates Will Follow
Perspectives:Wegmans Food Markets: How Two Halves Make More Than a Whole
Independent Thinking: N.G.A. Annual Independent Grocers Survey: Cream of the Crop
Fall Promotions: Tailgating Takes Over
Proteins: Meaty Alternatives
Fresh Developments: PG Looks at the Latest News From the Perimeter
Beverage Alcohol: Keeping the Aisle Afloat
Culinary Oils: Oil Can
Frozen Desserts: Frozen Desserts Heat up
Family Planning: Up Front With Family Planning
Vitamins and Supplements: Healthy Sales With a Capital ‘D’
Pharmacy: Dealing With Diabetes
What’s Next: Editors’ Picks for Innovative Products
Equipment: Lasting Impressions: The Shopper’s Perspective

Progressive Grocer - August/September 2009