Associated Wholesale Grocers

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. is a prominent private grocery wholesale and distribution cooperative established in 1924. Headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, this retailer-owned cooperative serves over 3,500 locations across 33 states, primarily covering the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions, including strategic operations that impact Miami and other key markets.

With approximately 1,559 employees and annual revenue of $12.1 billion in 2024, Associated Wholesale Grocers offers a robust portfolio of private label grocery brands such as Best Choice, Clearly Organic, Always Save, and Superior Selections. The company’s focus on providing high-quality merchandise and cost-effective support services enables independent supermarkets and grocery stores to compete effectively in their markets.

When Was Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. Established?

Founded: 1924
Type: Private
Headquarters: Kansas City, Kansas, United States
Industry: Grocery Wholesale and Distribution
Locations: Over 3,500 locations in 33 states
Employees: Approximately 1,559
Annual Revenue: $12.1 billion (2024)

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. Mission Statement

To provide our member retailers all the tools, products, and services they need to compete favorably in all markets served. This includes top quality supermarket merchandise and support services, all at the lowest possible cost.

What Is Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. Known For?

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. stands out in the grocery wholesale and distribution industry through its unique cooperative business model and comprehensive private label product offerings.

Retailer-Owned Cooperative Model

The company operates as a retailer-owned cooperative supplying independently owned supermarkets and grocery stores. This model allows AWG to deliver low-cost products and services, competitive marketing strategies, and return all profits to its member retailers, reinforcing a strong community and common interest among members.

Private Label Grocery Brands

AWG offers a variety of private label brands, including Best Choice, Clearly Organic, Always Save, and Superior Selections. These brands provide quality alternatives for consumers and help member retailers differentiate their product offerings in competitive grocery markets like Miami.

Efficient Distribution Network

With nine modern and efficient distribution centers totaling over nine million square feet, AWG maximizes logistics efficiency to ensure timely delivery and consistent supply across its 33-state network, strategically serving markets in the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions.

How Many Locations Does Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. Operate?

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. supports more than 3,500 independent grocery store locations dispersed throughout 33 states. This extensive footprint spans critical regional markets including the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest with a growing influence in Florida markets such as Miami.

The cooperative's expansive presence enables member retailers to maintain strong local roots while benefiting from the operational scale and purchasing power of one of America's leading wholesale grocery suppliers.

Which Areas Does AWG Serve?

The company focuses primarily on the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions of the United States. Its presence in these areas allows it to meet diverse market needs and support retail grocers effectively with competitive pricing and comprehensive product assortments.

Who Owns Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc.?

Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. is owned by its member retailers through a cooperative business structure. These independently owned supermarkets and grocery stores control the company, allowing all profits and benefits to be reinvested in strengthening their collective competitive position.

Is Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. Currently Hiring?

You can check out the open positions that Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. has right here on OysterLink.