Associated Food Stores Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Salt Lake City-based grocery wholesaler Associated Food Stores recently celebrated its milestone 75th anniversary and is committed to strengthening the grocery experience for independent retailers. The company supplies groceries and other goods to more than 400 independent retailers throughout the west and continues to grow its membership with new stores and retailers each year. Associated Food Stores was established in 1940 during a time when competition from large chain stores and unfair and inconsistent supplier costs drove many smaller grocers out of business. To fight the challenge, 34 independent Utah grocers joined together to create a warehouse that would enable them to survive the competitive nature of the grocery industry. They understood that the only way to survive was to combine their buying power and opened a warehouse that would allow them to benefit from lower costs while maintaining their independence. That same fighting spirit continues to drive Associated Food Stores 75 years later and has enabled the company to grow and serve retailers in Utah, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, Arizona and Oregon. Members of the grocery wholesaler benefit from more than just combined buying power. Member stores have access to store development, retail technology and marketing assistance among other resources through the company. Associated Food Stores entered into retail operations in 1999 and operates 42 stores under the Macey’s, Dan’s, Dick’s Market, Lin’s and Fresh Market banners. With more than 5,500 employees in its corporate offices, distribution center and retail stores, the company is one of the largest employers in Utah. The grocery wholesaler is committed to giving back to the communities they serve in more ways than simply supporting the “little guy.” AFS works to fight food insecurity with regular donations to Utah Food Bank and Catholic Community services. It also supports American Heart Association, Muscular Dystrophy Association and United Way and many other local charities. As part of the 75th anniversary celebration, the compnay worked with their vendors to donate 750 personal care kits to Volunteers of America Utah’s homeless youth unit. “We have had an incredible past and look forward to a bright future filled with many more opportunities to serve our retailers and communities,” says Neal Berube, president and CEO of Associated Food Stores.