Independent grocers across the nation will soon be able to accept healthy benefit cards more easily thanks to a new partnership between the National Grocers Association (NGA) and Fincretive.
This collaboration aims to level the playing field for independent grocers, who have historically faced challenges processing these cards, ultimately benefiting retailers and consumers.
Leveling the Playing Field for Independent Grocers
The partnership addresses a significant hurdle for independent grocers.
Previously, these retailers often lacked access to healthy benefit cards offered through Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits programs.
This exclusion placed them at a disadvantage compared to larger supermarket chains, despite independent grocers’ investments in technology and upgrades.
Stephanie Johnson, NGA group VP of government relations, explained that the new partnership simplifies the process by connecting NGA members to major card processors through their existing POS systems. This eliminates the need to navigate multiple sign-ups and system updates.
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Healthy Benefit Cards with Fincretive
Fincretive’s universal Medicare/Medicaid Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Healthy Benefit Card (HBC) payment solution is designed to integrate seamlessly with virtually all point-of-sale systems and payment processors.
This compatibility is crucial for expanding the acceptance of HBC payments in independent and ethnic grocery stores and convenience stores.
Fincretive’s chief strategy officer, Judd Ferrer, highlighted the platform’s ability to modernize OTC/HBC processing. Grocers will no longer need to manage multiple card processors or terminals, simplifying transactions and reducing administrative burden.
Boosting the Independent Grocery Sector
The independent grocery sector plays a vital role in the national economy, generating over $250 billion in sales annually. This translates to 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages, and $36 billion in taxes.
By facilitating the acceptance of healthy benefit cards, the NGA-Fincretive partnership is poised to strengthen this vital segment of the economy further.
Allowing these smaller grocers to accept healthy benefit cards will boost them and attract more customers to their locations.
Empowering Consumers and Expanding Access
Beyond the benefits for grocers, the partnership also empowers consumers. Medicare Advantage participants often receive monthly grocery stipends through healthy benefit cards.
Increased acceptance of these cards at independent grocers expands beneficiaries’ access to nutritious food options, particularly in communities where these smaller stores serve as essential neighborhood hubs.
A Collaborative Effort
As part of the partnership, the NGA and Fincretive launched a new website to provide shopkeepers with information and guidance on accepting healthy benefit cards.
Later this month, they will also host informational sessions at The NGA Show in Las Vegas, demonstrating their commitment to supporting independent grocers in this transition.
This collaboration signifies a significant step toward greater inclusivity and accessibility within the grocery industry, ensuring that healthy benefit cards can benefit both retailers and consumers.