LAS VEGAS — Two political personalities from opposite ends of the spectrum offered words of support for independent grocers during last week's opening session of the National Grocers Association's annual convention here.
In response to a retailer's question asking how independents can become more relevant, Jeb Bush, the former Republican governor of Florida, and James Carville, a Democratic political consultant, endorsed the independents' style.
Bush said he shops at a two-store independent in Florida “because they really focus on quality fruits and vegetables and organic pet foods.
“There's a niche for that kind of grocer — a niche that draws us to those stores because we are a diverse world with diverse needs, and you independents target diversity. You offer us choices — quality-of-life choices that more retailers should offer. You are part of that offering of a better life.”
Carville said his grandparents were independent grocers who used to buy from Associated Grocers, Baton Rouge, La. “It's groups like AG that allow independents to band together and be competitive with the chains,” he said. “People are different, and when I go to a store, I want a particular kind of shrimp that I like and local produce, where the grocer knows the people who grew it.
“You provide services and choices that come from knowing your market and your customers, and the fact you hold your own so well is pretty remarkable — and the more you identify with the communities you're in, the better you'll be.
“It's a tough business, but the fact you can survive and prosper says a lot about your acumen and your business skills.”
