Independent grocers are taking a stand against unfair market conditions with the launch of Fair Markets, Fresh Choices, a bold advocacy campaign by the National Grocers Association (NGA).
Announced at The NGA Show in Las Vegas, the initiative aims to level the playing field in the food retail industry, ensuring fair competition, lower consumer costs, and fewer regulatory hurdles for small businesses.
Fighting Against Unfair Pricing and Credit Card Fees
Independent grocers, many of them family-owned, play a crucial role in local communities. However, mega-retailers leverage their dominance to sidestep fair pricing laws, forcing smaller competitors to pay higher costs for goods. Meanwhile, credit card giants impose excessive swipe fees, increasing consumer prices and burdening small businesses.
NGA President & CEO Greg Ferrara emphasized the importance of fair competition in the food industry.
“While independent grocers are innovating, investing, and serving their communities, powerful mega chains manipulate the system to protect their monopolies at the expense of hardworking Americans,” Ferrara said.
The campaign highlights the need for stronger antitrust enforcement to ensure fair pricing for independent businesses and consumers. It also pushes for credit card fee reform to prevent financial institutions from inflating costs with hidden charges.
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Reducing Regulations That Drive Up Food Prices
Beyond pricing concerns, government regulations often stifle growth and limit consumer choice. Independent grocers struggle with excessive red tape, which increases operational costs and makes it harder for them to compete with larger chains.
NGA’s campaign calls for eliminating unnecessary restrictions that inflate food prices and limit community access to fresh, affordable groceries.
The organization also urges policymakers to remove barriers preventing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants from making food choices.
A Unified Voice for Independent Grocers
NGA’s Chief Government Relations Officer, Chris Jones, made it clear that independent grocers are not seeking preferential treatment—only a fair chance to compete.
“With this campaign, we are making it clear: Independent grocers are not asking for special treatment—we are simply demanding fair treatment,” Jones said.
By bringing real-world stories from small grocers to the forefront, Fair Markets, Fresh Choices will educate lawmakers and the public about the impact of unfair market practices.
The campaign will also ensure that independent grocers’ concerns reach key decision-makers in Congress, regulatory agencies, and the White House.
The Future of Fair Food Markets
As independent grocers fight to sustain local businesses and ensure consumer choice, NGA’s advocacy campaign will continue pushing for market fairness, transparent pricing, and reduced regulatory burdens.
With a united front, these grocers aim to secure a competitive future for small businesses while keeping food accessible and affordable for all Americans.