National Grocers Association

The National Grocers Association (NGA) is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. Also represented are affiliated associations, manufacturers, and service suppliers, as well as other entrepreneurial companies that support NGA's Mission and Philosophy.
The meaning of “independent retailer” is more a question of ownership and philosophy of operation, rather than number of stores or type of format.
An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats.
A few are publicly traded, but with controlling shares held by the family, and others are employee owned.
Independents are the true “entrepreneurs” of the grocery/food industry and are dedicated to their customers, associates, and communities.