Last updated on June 20th, 2022 at 11:11 am
After a two-year absence, Associated Grocers Inc. held its Spring Food Show for member retailers April 27 at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales, Louisiana.
Themed “AG Into the Future,” the event drew more than 1,000 vendors, manufacturers, retail members and store representatives.
Associated Grocers Inc. is a wholesale distributor to more than 180 independent retailers spanning Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. AG provides retail operations support and solutions to its members, which allow independent supermarkets to compete with the national chains while providing hometown flavors and fast, friendly service.
The company’s first show since fall 2019 featured new items, merchandising ideas and current services available to its retailers. In addition, Associated Grocers’ Retail Systems debuted self-check-out stands at the event.
For Associated Grocers, the gather also was an opportunity to impact the community with bulk food, products and floral donations.
“On behalf of Associated Grocers, our retailers, and gracious vendor/partners, it is our pleasure and honor to facilitate one of our biggest donations ever to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank through our Food Show program,” said Roeshawn Peters, corporate marketing manager. “We are humbled to make a difference for so many individuals and families in need.”
The company donated 24,749 pounds of food, which is the equivalent of 20,625 meals, to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.
Summed up another way, that is three box trucks (24 feet long) holding 10 pallets each, one 18-wheeler with 20 pallets and half 18-wheeler with 11 pallets.
“Associated Grocers has been a great partner to help address hunger in our 11-parish service area for many years,” said Mike Manning, president and CEO of the food bank. “This latest food show donation will be a tremendous help for the increased need we face during the summer and will also help us as we prepare for hurricane season.”
In addition, all of the flowers at the show were packed up and delivered by the AG team to eight nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals in Gonzales and the Baton Rouge area.
During the kick-off cookout, which was held on the evening of April 26, guests enjoyed crawfish, fried shrimp, fish, prime rib and boudin sausage, among other delicacies.
Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos dazzled guests throughout the evening, while AG vendors served up some of their products.
To view the full photo gallery by The Shelby Report, click here.
