6 • July | August 2026 • abasto.com BY ABASTO T he National Grocers Association (NGA) re- leased a new report finding that independent grocers drive $557.5B in economic activity, underscoring their vital role in the U.S. eco- nomy despite costs. The new Economic Im- pact Analysis quantifies the substantial role America’s independent supermarket operators play in the na- tion’s economy. Conducted by Arizona State University, the report finds that the in- dependent grocery industry generates $557.5 billion in total annual economic acti- vity, representing nearly 2.0 percent of U.S. gross domes- tic product, even as commu- nity grocers contend with inflation, supply chain dis- ruption, rising costs, and an increasingly uneven com- petitive landscape. The report underscores the vital role independent grocers play as a strong and growing force in the Ame- rican economy and in com- munities across the coun- try. From supporting Main Street jobs to sustaining local supply chains, inde- pendent supermarkets con- tinue to drive economic ac- tivity in every region of the nation while serving as trus- ted community anchors. “Independent grocers are helping power the American economy from the ground up,” said Greg Ferrara, NGA president and CEO. “These are Main Street businesses creating jobs, supporting families, and reinvesting in the commu- nities they serve every sin- gle day. A strong indepen- dent grocery sector means stronger local economies, stronger supply chains, and stronger communities across America. NGA will continue advocating for po- licies that help these busi- nesses compete, grow, and continue delivering for the American people.” Independent Grocers Drive $557.5B Yearly NGA REPORT: $557.5 billion in total annual economic output, representing near- ly 2.0% of the entire U.S. economy. $353.5 billion in direct retail sales, ac- counting for 38.4% of the $920 billion U.S. food re- tailing sector. 1.58x multiplier effect, meaning every $1 in in- dependent grocery sales generates an additional $0.58 in supply chain and household spending na- tionwide. 1.48 million American jobs supported, including 1.14 million di- rectly employed, plus an additional 340,000 su- pported through supply chain and induced activity. $115.2 billion in annual worker income, with average industry-wide earnings of $77,628, well above the U.S. median wage. $191.3 billion in value-added economic activity, capturing the merchandising, logistics, and distribution services independents provide. $27.3 billion in combined annual tax revenue: $4.7 billion fede- ral, $10.2 billion state, and $12.4 billion local. These dollars fund schools, pu- blic safety, roads, and re- creation in communities nationwide. Independent Grocers’ National Footprint SPECIAL INSERT NSA SHOW 2026