78 • March | April 2026 • abasto.com BY ABASTO T he National Super- market Association formally welcomed its new president and board of directors elected for the 2026–2027 term. The cere- mony was held on January 29, marking the beginning of a new era of leadership focused on representation, collaboration, and sustaina- ble growth for independent supermarkets. Formal Beginning of New Leadership Beyond the protocol of the official swearing-in ceremony, the event sym- bolized the beginning of a new strategic cycle. The as- sociation of independent Hispanic grocers seeks to reinforce its mission of “Shaping Tomorrow” whi- le addressing the current challenges facing the su- permarket industry. The National Supermarket Association’s board of di- rectors will serve for a two- year term, covering 2026 and 2027. The new team combines operational ex- perience, business leader- ship, and deep knowledge of independent retail. Anthony Peña assumed the position of national president. From that po- sition, he will lead the organization in a context marked by inflationary pressures, regulatory changes, and transforma- tions in consumer habits. Frank Félix Zapata serves as vice president, and Jorge Guillén serves as secretary general. Pedro Goico is the association’s treasurer. The board is completed by directors José “JD” Azco- na, Iván Bueno, Anthony Es- pinal, Jason Ferreira, Arturo Payamps, Frank Pimentel, and Ángel Rafael Núñez. Together, the group will define strategic priorities, develop trade association policies, and support mem- ber programs. The National Supermar- ket Association has indica- ted that this board will be responsible for strengthe- ning the voice of the inde- pendent sector and expan- ding the services it offers to its members on the East Coast. The NSA Swears in Its New Board of Directors for 2026–2027 Trade Association Advocacy and Direct Support The National Supermarket Association actively repre- sents its members in the public and private sectors. The organization defends its members’ interests on key issues, including labor regulations, food assistan- ce programs, public safety, operating costs, and su- pply chain stability. In addition, the asso- ciation promotes training initiatives, networking opportunities, and stra- tegic alliances with su- ppliers. These actions enable independent super- markets to remain compe- titive and continue to play an essential role in their communities. In an environment mar- ked by retail consolidation, e-commerce growth, and margin pressure, the NSA emphasizes the importan- ce of strong, unified repre- sentation. NSA History Founded in 1989 by Hispanic entrepre- neurs, the National Supermarket Asso- ciation has establi- shed itself as one of the leading organi- zations representing independent super- market owners in the United States. Its reach spans New York, other East Coast cities, the Mid-Atlantic region, and Florida. Over the past two decades, the association has seen steady growth in both its members- hip and institutional influence. Currently, it repre- sents approximately 600 supermarkets. The majority of its members are of His- panic descent and operate stores that serve communities of color, many of which are located in urban areas with limited access to major retail chains. ANTHONY PEÑA PTE NSA ANTHONY PEÑA PTE NSA Anthony Peña, new president of the NSA. Swearing-in of the NSA Board of Director • FOOD INDUSTRY