Confidence, Trust & Determination
Associated Grocers, Inc. was organized on May 23, 1950 with 17 member stores. The original membership consisted of grocers from old and respected business families of Baton Rouge. From its humble beginnings in 1950, Associated Grocers, Inc. quickly developed into a success for Baton Rouge and eventually the southeastern region of the United States. The association’s marketing strategy was simple, but effective. Through association buying power, member-retailers decreased the cost of goods by purchasing directly from food manufacturers.
Over the years, Associated Grocers has developed an impressive campus of warehouse and administrative buildings, including over 670,000 square feet of grocery and perishable warehouse space.
Associated Grocers has continued to build on the founding members’ vision by acquiring subsidiary companies in 2011 and 2014. Helping provide everyday solutions for its members, the companies are positioned to assist with energy efficiency and bring fresh, specialty meal solutions directly to its members.
Since 1950, Associated Grocers has seen constant, measurable growth ensuring its vitality by enhancing technology, re-shaping the appeal of the supermarket and leaving space for expansion. Today, with over 650 full-time employees and annual sales over $800 million, Associated Grocers, Inc. is a key player in the economy of Louisiana.
Associated Grocers Founding Members
Representing 17 Stores
A.A. Allen
W.F. Arnold
E.J. Brown
Brazil Calandro
Clarence P. Carlin
Domonic Cascio
Joseph S. Cicero
A.F. Courville
Ben & Peter Crifasi
O.W. Germany
Perdy Guillory
Carl L. Montalbano
P.F. O’Deay
Pete Prestigiacomo
Joseph M. Romano
John P. & Steve W. Schittone
Anthony J. & Joseph A. Schittone
Embracing Growth and Modern Innovation
As the grocery landscape transformed, Associated Grocers, Inc. evolved from a traditional “cash and carry” wholesaler into a total Retail Operations Support and Solution Center. To meet the demands of a rapidly changing marketplace, the company consistently invested in technological advancements to aid retail efficiency. The implementation of optimized warehouse management systems, advanced retail data tools, and strategic merchandising programs completely redefined how the cooperative empowered its members to compete.
Today, that original 1950 alliance of 17 local families has expanded into a premier distribution network. Associated Grocers proudly supports more than 200 independent retail members across a four-state footprint, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Arkansas.
As the nation reflects on its 250th birthday, our ongoing Associated Grocers history serves as a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and dedication of the independent grocers anchoring our communities. Through reliability, authenticity, and a deep-rooted commitment to service, we ensure our family-owned establishments are positioned to thrive for generations to come.
To read the recent comprehensive industry coverage of our modern operational advancements and founding principles, view our full summary in Associated Grocers In The News.