Greg Ferrara, President and CEO of the National Grocers Association, brings his unique perspective as both a former independent grocer and long-time industry advocate to discuss the rapidly changing political landscape affecting food retailers.

Drawing from nearly two decades of experience at NGA and his background running his family's New Orleans supermarket, Ferrara offers a candid assessment of the volatile tariff situation that's "changing not by the day, but sometimes by the hour." He explains why even grocers who source little directly from China should be concerned about equipment costs, supply chain disruptions, and potential economic impacts on agricultural communities that export to affected countries.

The conversation explores surprising shifts in antitrust enforcement, with both political parties now showing interest in addressing market consolidation. Ferrara connects these issues directly to food deserts, noting how the loss of independent grocers devastates communities: "If we're going to rebuild middle America, rebuild these communities, rebuild our middle class, make America healthy again, we have to have grocery stores, full-service grocery stores."

Perhaps most concerning for grocers are coming changes to SNAP regulations, which Ferrara describes as "the greatest challenge we've had in 20-plus years." With states submitting waivers to restrict purchases and potential budget cuts looming, the industry faces significant uncertainty. The NGA is working to ensure any changes minimize disruption at checkout and recognize SNAP's role in supporting both economically disadvantaged communities and grocery jobs.

Ready to make your voice heard? Join the NGA fly-in this May in Washington DC and help shape the policies affecting your business.

NGA’s Fly-In for Fair Competition Begins in Washington, D.C. - National Grocers Association

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Host: Kristin Popp
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