A Meaningful Retreat
The Independent Operators Symposium offers a timely opportunity to pause, reflect, and find inspiration for the year ahead.
Imagine a place where you can reinvest in yourself, revitalize your creative spirit, and shift your focus to the long-term health of your business.
The 2026 Independent Operators Symposium offers a stress-free place to step back from the day-to-day and refocus on your personal and professional priorities. Surrounded by your peers and business partners, this annual retreat provides a uncommon experience where attendees can safely share the obstacles to their growth and learn new perspectives on the path forward.
We invite you to gather for a week of inspiring speakers, practical share group discussions, and just the right setting to give yourself a much-needed break.
Join us January 11-18, 2026 to rejuvenate your spirit and improve the health of your business. You will come away with a renewed energy and fresh ideas that will benefit your business for years to come!
EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS
Each year CGA assembles an impressive line-up of well-respected experts to address some of the key opportunities and challenges facing today’s independent grocery business leaders.
Educational sessions are designed to be informative and interactive, with ample time for dialogue and to share best practices. You’ll return from the symposium with fresh ideas and a renewed drive to improve your business for years to come.
Once again, this year’s Symposium kicks off with a free flowing, share group session where owners will contribute to discussions on employer/employee challenges, store marketing and merchandising methods, thorny compliance issues, and emerging opportunities.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
The Independent Operators Symposium is a perfect blend of inspirational educational programming coupled with entertaining social events and plenty of free time to enjoy the Big Island and relax in one of the world’s most incredible natural settings.
2026 HOST HOTEL
Four Seasons O’ahu at Ko Olina
Join us in Ko Olina and find your very own place of joy. The beachfront island resort sits on Oahu’s wild and rugged western coast, where vast ocean views and lively pools and lagoons provide the setting for an unforgettable adventure. Take the family for a ride on a traditional Polynesian canoe, splash around in the turquoise waters of our white-sand beach, play a round of golf as you weave through waterfalls at Ko Olina Golf Club, or spend the day reconnecting with your inner self at Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre.
QUESTIONS?
Email Dave Cook or call (916) 448-3545.
2026 SPONSORS
Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the 2026 Independent Operators Symposium. Contact Dave Cook for sponsorship information.
