Outstanding Independents

Independent grocer plans 2nd New Jersey, 8th New York locations

NGA Show is the backdrop for annual awards dinner

A new crop of award-winning independent grocers thrive by answering consumers' calls for improved experience

Independent grocer in Decorah, Iowa underwent a recent remodel, functions as a community hub

This Kentfield, Calif.-based independent grocer continues to grow

This Minocqua, Wis. independent grocer has a list of "Top 5 Reasons to Try Trig's to Go"

This Milwaukee staple is build upon a tradition of family recipes

This Darien, Conn., independent grocer has always been a trailblazer when it comes to foodservice

This Charlotte, N.C., independent grocer connects with all its customers

These 2 independent grocers — one in the Bay Area and one in Baltimore — focus on the customer

These 2 independent grocers — one in Florida and one in Chicago — filled a huge void

A Coeur d'Arlene, Idaho, independent grocer with a passion for natural foods and socially responsible living

These 2 independent grocers — one in Maryland and one in Washington — maintain strict standards on local

This Bergenfield, N.J., independent grocer has built its reputation on the superior quality of its expansive deli and butcher departments.

This Farmingdale, N.Y., independent grocer focuses on the best fresh produce and meats

These 2 independent grocers — one in Pennsylvania and one in California — have a mission beyond groceries

This Seattle independent grocer has a long history of environmental responsibility

2018's Outstanding Independents emphasize local, enjoyable experiences

Expansion doesn’t always mean a second location. Instead, Cardiff Seaside Market owners John and Pete Najjar decided to remodel and expand the location they had, growing it from 13,000 square feet to 18,500 square feet.

Setting your stores apart is a tough business. “We really had to be very forward thinking in this industry,” says Rachel Shemirani, VP of marketing for the seven-store Barons Market, based in Poway, Calif. “The grocery industry, especially in Southern California, is just so competitive.

When My Fresh Basket owner Ramona Higashi was approached about building a supermarket from the ground up along the river in Spokane, Wash., she and her team knew that the concept would have to play off the location. “We have a great view, so we thought, all right, we’re going to highlight

Competition is everywhere, and Geissler’s Supermarkets, with six stores in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts, is in one of the more competitive markets in the country.

What sets Roche Bros.’ bakeries apart from the competition is the bakers, says Josh Naughton, director of deli, seafood and bakery. “We’ve got some of the best bakers in the industry running our departments,” he notes.

To succeed in center store, grocers have to think outside the box. C.E. Lovejoy’s Brookswood Market, in Bend, Ore., also has begun thinking outside the keg.