IGA Becomes Topco Member
CHICAGO - IGA announced today it has become a member of Topco Associates LLC, the Skokie, Ill.-based cooperative that supplies procurement, quality assurance, packaging, and other services exclusively for its member-owners, which include supermarket retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice companies.
IGA, which is the world's largest voluntary supermarket network, said it plans to capitalize from Topco's IGA private label quality assurance program. Currently, IGA's licensed distribution centers (LDCs) procure IGA private label products separately and through multiple brokers. Those LDCs who choose will have the right to continue their present practice, according to IGA.
"IGA has always taken pride in the quality of its private label," IGA c.f.o. Robert Grottke said. "The corporation is indebted that its founder, J. Frank Grimes, used the same label on the product as the front of the store, ensuring consumer recognition from day one. IGA's relationship with Topco promises to favorably impact the profitability of the IGA brand for our licensed distributors. We are confident that in working with Topco, the IGA Brand will grow its presence worldwide, ensuring our retailers remain competitive."
Topco's s.v.p. of member development, Ken Guy, called IGA "a premier supermarket network."
"The relationship between Topco and IGA will be of significant benefit to everyone," Guy said.
Other Topco members include companies such as Meijer, Ukrops' Super Markets, Haagen, Schnuck Markets, Stater Bros., Hy-Vee, and many more.
IGA, which is the world's largest voluntary supermarket network, said it plans to capitalize from Topco's IGA private label quality assurance program. Currently, IGA's licensed distribution centers (LDCs) procure IGA private label products separately and through multiple brokers. Those LDCs who choose will have the right to continue their present practice, according to IGA.
"IGA has always taken pride in the quality of its private label," IGA c.f.o. Robert Grottke said. "The corporation is indebted that its founder, J. Frank Grimes, used the same label on the product as the front of the store, ensuring consumer recognition from day one. IGA's relationship with Topco promises to favorably impact the profitability of the IGA brand for our licensed distributors. We are confident that in working with Topco, the IGA Brand will grow its presence worldwide, ensuring our retailers remain competitive."
Topco's s.v.p. of member development, Ken Guy, called IGA "a premier supermarket network."
"The relationship between Topco and IGA will be of significant benefit to everyone," Guy said.
Other Topco members include companies such as Meijer, Ukrops' Super Markets, Haagen, Schnuck Markets, Stater Bros., Hy-Vee, and many more.