Guadalupe López stands out in the grocery industry with a career that took her from magazine management to the leadership of one of Northern California’s leading stores, taquerias, and butcher shops: Arteaga’s Food Center. Her path to success had challenges, but her passion, determination, and commitment to her community have made her a role model.
Arteaga’s Food Center, founded more than 30 years ago by her husband, is a benchmark for the Latino community. It is a family business with nine regional stores offering authentic, high-quality products.
Guadalupe’s career in the grocery industry was driven by a personal event that led her to rethink her priorities. After her daughter’s illness diagnosis, she decided to leave her job as production director of the now-defunct SCO World magazine, with global distribution and a focus on technology, to join the family business and have a more flexible schedule.
“In that process, I discovered my true passion: the grocery industry,” López shared in an interview with Abasto Magazine.
Currently, Guadalupe focuses on creating a positive image in the community, advocating for small businesses, and informing the industry about laws that may affect it.
Male-Dominated Industry
Guadalupe’s beginnings in groceries were not easy.
“I encountered a difference in treatment towards women in a male-dominated industry. Fighting to be heard and taken seriously was a constant battle, but over time I learned to make my voice heard with confidence and determination. I learned that, in a male-dominated business, a woman has to be informed and must be confident and cautious in her decisions,” she said.
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Women in the Industry
Guadalupe has witnessed the industry’s evolution, especially regarding women’s acceptance. She highlights how they have contributed to improving the work environment, developing creativity, and strengthening the community.
A leader must be analytical, know how to listen, be willing to work long hours, and not be afraid to share their experience or ask questions.
Guadalupe Lopez, Chair of the NGA Committee
Recently, the National Grocers Association (NGA) appointed Guadalupe López chair of the Government Relations Committee.
“We work on fair competition, tax reform, nutrition policies (SNAP, WIC), and reducing credit card fees. The Chair recommends advocacy and communication topics with legislators to represent these interests in federal policies,” she explained.