(2025 information coming soon!)

Independent grocers have a rich history of innovation, community involvement and customer-centric services. In particular, independent grocers have a distinct advantage in providing enhanced selections of produce, deli items, meat, seafood and local products. Through a strong emphasis on the quality of their fresh departments, smaller grocers have managed to stay competitive even while operating at a technological and pricing disadvantage compared to large chain, big-box and discount retailers.

While fresh has been the traditional differentiator for independents, will this be enough to maintain their edge into the future? Or should independents explore other investments – such as technology, AI, retail media, private label brands, alternative store formats or other turnkey solutions designed for smaller operators – to make them more competitive amid an increasingly crowded marketplace?

Questions to be addressed in the Case Study presentation:

1. Do future customers’ preferences support continued investments in the fresh category?
2. How do independents continue to drive in-person sales in the future while growing their digital presence to deliver an integrated shopping experience?
3. How will independents differentiate themselves in the next 10 years (artificial intelligence, retail media, private label brands, alternative store formats, etc.)?
4. Depending on what you think will be the future differentiating factor, design a strategy to maintain a competitive edge. An estimated return on investment, at the 3-year mark, should be included.

NGAF partners with Niemann Foods, Inc,and employee-owned operator of more than 130 supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience, pet and hardware stores under several banners including County Market, Harvest Market, Haymakers, Ace Hardware, Pet Supplies Plus and Save-A-Lot. These retail locations are located in six states; in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Michigan, and Wisconsin and soon to expand to Minnesota. Students will consider their newest retail banner, Niemanns when researching and developing their solutions to the case study.

For more information, please visit the NGA Foundation.