NGA EXHIBITOR NEWS: AGNE Taps Webstop for Independent Digital Solutions

Associated Grocers of New England will now offer its independent grocery retailers a state-of-the-art digital platform with the help of Tampa Bay, Fla.-based Webstop. Retailers supplied by Associated Grocers will have access to Webstop’s advanced web, mobile and email newsletter features.

“Our independent retailers continue to innovate and adjust in a changing marketplace,” said Mike Violette, SVP of sales and retail development at Associated Grocers. “We recognized their need for more advanced digital features and are confident Webstop will provide them just that."

Associated Grocers’ new digital platform will provide its independents with the same advanced features that many large grocery chains utilize today, the company said. Features will include interactive digital circulars, personalized shopping lists and recipes in both a desktop and mobile format.

Webstop technology is built to provide the same advanced features no matter what device is being utilized by the shopper, be it a tablet, smart phone or their computer, according to Webstop. Each retailer will have a unique web and mobile site that offer a fully connected shopping experience.

“Shoppers today expect their grocers to have web and mobile tools that are helpful and user friendly,” said Shawn Tuckett, Webstop’s senior director of sales and client service. “Associated Grocers’ retailers can now offer advanced digital features that level the playing field with their larger competitors.”

AG New England, a retailer-owned cooperative, supplies over 650 stores across New England and into the Upstate New York/Albany area from its distribution center in Pembroke, N.H., and owns and operates several corporate stores.

Festival Foods has also recently tapped Webstop for its digital services.