NARMS Forms Independent Food Broker Division
PLOVER, Wis. - A steering committee representing independent food brokers has met to officially form a new division of the National Association for Retail Marketing Services (NARMS).
The new division, to be called Independent Food Brokers of America, or IFBA, is comprised of independent foood brokers from North America. Its inaugural meeting was held in Chicago prior to the FMI Show.
Addressing the inaugural meeting was Chip O'Hare, president of the Johnson-
O'Hare Companies, who laid out the organizational objectives and vision for the new division of NARMS. O'Hare cited the need for development of a single voice representing benefits offered by today's independent food broker.
"It is now clear that the independent broker option has been re-established for any manufacturer, large or small. The independent broker is locally focused and incented on the success of his customers and principals. The independents are back!" O'Hare said.
Also addressing the group was Robert Mariano, president and c.e.o. of Roundy's. He discussed the need for regional retail knowledge, that in his opinion the independent brokers provide. Mariano also cited the importance of specific retail intelligence by location.
The National Association for Retail Marketing Services and its 400 member companies represent the merchandising and marketing service industry on an international basis. Its members perform more than $2 billion in merchandising/event marketing and sales marketing services each year.
The new division, to be called Independent Food Brokers of America, or IFBA, is comprised of independent foood brokers from North America. Its inaugural meeting was held in Chicago prior to the FMI Show.
Addressing the inaugural meeting was Chip O'Hare, president of the Johnson-
O'Hare Companies, who laid out the organizational objectives and vision for the new division of NARMS. O'Hare cited the need for development of a single voice representing benefits offered by today's independent food broker.
"It is now clear that the independent broker option has been re-established for any manufacturer, large or small. The independent broker is locally focused and incented on the success of his customers and principals. The independents are back!" O'Hare said.
Also addressing the group was Robert Mariano, president and c.e.o. of Roundy's. He discussed the need for regional retail knowledge, that in his opinion the independent brokers provide. Mariano also cited the importance of specific retail intelligence by location.
The National Association for Retail Marketing Services and its 400 member companies represent the merchandising and marketing service industry on an international basis. Its members perform more than $2 billion in merchandising/event marketing and sales marketing services each year.