The National Grocers Association (NGA) celebrated excellence in the independent grocery sector by presenting the prestigious Peter J. Larkin Award for Community Service, the WGA Woman of the Year Award, and the Thomas K. Zaucha Entrepreneurial Excellence Award at the 2025 NGA Show.
The awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made a lasting impact on their communities and the industry.
Trig’s Commitment to Local Communities
The National Grocers Association (NGA) honored T.A. Solberg Co., Inc. (Trig’s) with the Peter J. Larkin Community Service Award, sponsored by Kimberly-Clark, during the Opening Session of the 2025 NGA Show, at the Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Trig’s, an independent grocer with locations across Northern Wisconsin, contributes more than $2 million annually to community initiatives. Their donations support education, conservation, first responders, veterans, healthcare, and food security.
Recent charitable efforts by Trig’s include:
- Funding scholarships for local schools and colleges
- Expanding remote healthcare access for small towns and senior facilities
- Purchasing AED devices for youth camps
- Supporting law enforcement with body cameras and K9 units
- Donating to food banks and backpack programs
- Sponsoring veterans and disabled individuals in outdoor activities
Beyond financial contributions, Trig’s employees actively engage in volunteer work, supporting food pantries, store-led initiatives, and community events.
NGA Highlights Independent Grocers’ Role
NGA President and CEO Greg Ferrara emphasized the impact of independent grocers. “Giving back isn’t just a responsibility; it’s part of who independent grocers are,” he said. “Trig’s embodies this spirit, making a lasting difference in the communities they serve.”
Established in 2019, the NGA Peter J. Larkin Award honors independent grocers dedicated to community service. Past recipients include RoNetco Supermarkets, Ideal Market, and Associated Grocers of New England.
WGA Woman of the Year Award
The NGA and the Women Grocers of America (WGA) announced Amy Niemetscheck, President and CEO of CertCo Inc., as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious WGA Woman of the Year Award.
The WGA Woman of the Year Award is presented to those who exemplify strong leadership qualities and a passion for the independent grocery industry.
With over a decade of experience at CertCo, Niemetscheck has played a crucial role in strengthening independent grocers through innovative business strategies and community engagement.
She has also strongly advocated volunteerism, leading CertCo’s initiatives to support organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, The Humane Society, and Second Harvest.
“Amy’s leadership, advocacy, and dedication to the independent grocery industry make her a truly deserving recipient of this award,” said Chelsea Matzen, vice president of the NGA Foundation. “Her commitment to fostering strong community values, volunteerism, and industry involvement exemplifies the mission of Women Grocers of America.”
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The NGA Thomas K. Zaucha Entrepreneurial Excellence Award
Ted Balistreri, co-owner of Sendik’s Food Markets, was also honored with the Thomas K. Zaucha Entrepreneurial Excellence Award.
This honor, sponsored by FMS Solutions and presented annually, recognizes an independent grocer whose vision, leadership, and dedication have impacted the industry.
Balistreri has been instrumental in expanding Sendik’s from a single store to an 18-location grocery chain known for its commitment to quality and community service.
Under his leadership, Sendik’s has donated more than $4.5 million to charitable causes, including the Wisconsin Honor Flight, which allows veterans to visit Washington, D.C., and be recognized for their service.
“Ted Balistreri is the epitome of what this award represents,” said NGA president and CEO Greg Ferrara. “This award is a testament to Ted’s ongoing impact he continues to make. His drive to innovate, connect with customers, and advocate for independent grocers remains as strong as ever, ensuring that Sendik’s, and the industry as a whole, will thrive for years to come.”