Independent Grocers to Convene in Washington, D.C. for NGA’s Fly-In for Fair Competition

• May 19, 2026

Washington, D.C. - The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, will welcome independent grocers, wholesalers, and state association executives to Washington, D.C. today for NGA's Fly-In for Fair Competition, a two-day advocacy event focused on creating a level playing field in the grocery industry.

During the event, attendees will meet with members of Congress and their staff, hear from policy experts on key industry issues, and collaborate with independent grocers from across the country on the most pressing challenges facing the independent supermarket industry.

The Fly-In will focus on several policy priorities, including legislation to reform credit card swipe fees, enforcement of the Robinson-Patman Act to address unfair pricing practices, and passage of a strong Farm Bill.

"Independent grocers are essential to the communities they serve, and this event gives our members the opportunity to bring their voices directly to legislators," said Stephanie Johnson, NGA SVP and head of government affairs. "We are looking forward to productive conversations with Congress about the need for fair competition policies that strengthen local grocery stores, support consumers, and ensure independent retailers can continue serving families across America."

The first day of the Fly-In will feature policy briefings, advocacy training, and expert-led discussions designed to prepare attendees for meetings on Capitol Hill. Programming will begin with welcome remarks from Sen. Peter Welch (VT) and Greg Ferrara, NGA president & CEO, followed by sessions covering credit card competition reform, economic trends, congressional advocacy strategies, and NGA's legislative priorities.

Tomorrow, attendees will meet with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to discuss how federal policy decisions impact independent supermarkets, their employees, suppliers, and the communities they serve.

###

About the National Grocers Association

NGA is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for about 1.2 percent of the nation's overall economy and is responsible for generating more than $250 billion in sales, 1.1 million jobs, $39 billion in wages and $36 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers' associations, manufacturers and service suppliers.