2025 New Laws Webinar

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CGA understands the challenges members face when impacted by new legislation and strives to provide educational resources to address those challenges. 

On Tuesday, November 12 from 10:00 – 11:30 am PST, the CGA Educational Foundation hosted a webinar to help companies learn more about the requirements of upcoming laws that will affect the grocery industry. Topics for the webinar include, but are not limited to, the list of bills below. 

The 2025 New Laws webinar is now available on-demand for member companies.

Topics:

AB 98 – Warehouses & Logistic Centers

Establishes requirements for the building of new or expansion of existing logistics centers near sensitive sites. 

SB 1046 – Compostable Produce Bags

Requires pre-checkout bags to be compostable beginning January 1, 2025.

SB 399 – Captive Audience Meetings – Employer Restrictions 

Prohibits an employer from punishing an employee that chooses not to participate in certain employer sponsored meetings.

SB 428 – Employee Harassment – Protective Orders

Allows an employer to seek a TRO on behalf of an employee that has suffered harassment.

SB 1053 – Plastic Checkout Bags

Restricts retailers to provide only paper bags at the point of sale for a charge beginning January 1, 2026.

CGA Explores AI at 2024 Strategic Conference

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Each year, CGA brings the California grocery industry together for three days of networking and education to strengthen business connections and explore timely topics and challenges facing the industry. In late September, the grocery community reunited in Palm Springs for the 2024 CGA Strategic Conference: Accelerating Impact. With emerging technologies transforming retail and the way we do business, this year’s conference centered on the impacts of artificial intelligence and new technology to help the grocery industry prepare.

A high-powered panel of AI and supply chain experts took the main stage to break down the implications of AI for the value chain. MIT professor Vivek Farias led a deep dive presentation on AI, then joined a panel discussion featuring Mario Adamy (UNFI), Miguel Paredes (Silicon Foundry), and Craig Rosenblum (Columbus Consulting).

In addition to our signature retailer-supplier business meetings and networking opportunities, this year’s event featured several new sessions and social events. Comedian Jake Johanssen kicked off the event with a hilarious stand-up routine, and attendees decompressed after a day of meetings and education at the CGA Silent Disco. To help attendees navigate California’s unique customers and retail environment, we introduced the first Golden State Summit. Led by subject experts, these TED-talk style presentations unpacked the state’s population and demographic shifts (Hans Johnson, PPIC), the evolving retail environment and store formats (Caroline Wu, Placer.ai), attitudes toward new technology (Jeremy S. Thompson, Edelman Global Advisory), and emerging consumer trends and preferences (Dan Frommer, The New Consumer).

The popular Emerging Brands Pitch Contest was back this year and bigger than ever. Six hand-selected emerging companies took the main stafe to pitch their product to a panel of judges representing Bristol Farms, Gelson’s Markets, Safeway Northern California, Costco Wholesale, and Sprouts Farmers Market. Myles Comfort Food took home first place and the people’s choice award, followed Top Fox Snacks in second place and Fresh Fizz Sodas in third.

Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees, for contributing to the success of this year’s conference. We hope you left our event with strong connections and valuable takeaways to accelerate your business into the food industry’s fast-paced future.

Save the date for next year’s Strategic Conference on September 21—23, 2025 at The Westin Mission Hills, Rancho Mirage.

CGAEF Reaches $10 Million Scholarship Milestone

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The California Grocers Association Educational Foundation (CGAEF) is thrilled to announce it has reached a significant milestone of awarding $10 million in college scholarships to grocery industry employees and their dependents.

Thanks to the grocery industry’s incredible generosity and commitment to education, CGAEF has awarded 6,571 scholarships to California Grocers Association member company employees and their dependents since the Foundation’s inception in 1998. This exciting achievement reflects the grocery industry’s investment in the future of its workforce.

Through our scholarship program, CGAEF helps nurture and retain industry talent to shape the next generation of grocery leaders. This $10 million landmark has already made a lasting impact on thousands of industry employees striving to achieve their dreams.

On behalf of the CGAEF Board of Trustees and staff, we extend our gratitude to the hundreds of individuals and companies who have contributed to this milestone. Your support has made all the difference in molding our industry’s future leadership. CGAEF is proud to support the personal and professional ambitions of hardworking grocery employees.

CGAEF scholarships are open to high school seniors, college undergraduate and graduate students who are employees of, or the dependent sons or daughters of employees of, a CGA member company. For more information on the CGAEF scholarship program, click here.

Newsom Signs Retail Theft Bill Package

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On Friday morning CGA President and CEO Ron Fong joined Gov. Gavin Newsom, legislative leaders, and law enforcement in San Jose as the Governor signed the Legislature’s signature retail theft bill package into law.

Totaling 10 bills, the retail theft package is notable for its focus on aggregation, multi-jurisdictional prosecution, and re-sellers running stolen goods storefronts. Here are the bills included:

AB 2943 allows felony charges on the third theft offense, aggregates dollar amounts and expands drug diversion programs.

AB 3209 allows a court to impose a restraining order for up to two years against a person who has stolen, vandalized or committed battery against an employee. It would also require the court to consider whether a person lives in a “food desert” and whether the store is the only location for necessities.

AB 1779 allows prosecutors to charge several offenses that took place across counties and handle them in a single court.

AB 1802 makes permanent the California Highway Patrol property crimes task force.

AB 1972 expands the California Highway Patrol’s property crimes task force program to include cargo theft and railroad police.

SB 905 creates two new “wobbler” offenses that can be charged as felonies or misdemeanors: breaking into a car with the intent to steal, and possessing property stolen from a car worth at least $950 with the intent to sell it. 

SB 1242 gives a stiffer sentence to people convicted of setting a fire on a retailer’s property to commit organized theft.

SB 1416 creates a sentencing enhancement for selling, exchanging, or returning for value an item acquired through shoplifting, burglary, or theft.

SB 1144 requires online marketplaces to collect information from high-volume third-party sellers and grants authority to district attorneys to bring civil actions to enforce violations.

SB 982 eliminates an end date on the crime of organized retail theft, allowing prosecution to occur indefinitely.

The New Food Frontier: California Grocer Magazine

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How Will GLP-1 Drugs Impact the Grocery Industry?

According to recent projections from FMI, nearly a third of U.S. consumers could begin using GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, reshaping the food landscape as we know it. In the latest issue of California Grocer magazine, CGA explores what’s in store for “The New Food Frontier” amid the rise of GLP-1 drugs and health-conscious consumers.

This issue takes a holistic view of health and wellness to unpack implications for the grocery industry and consumers. In a state that drives national standards, Tim Townsend delves into California food safety laws that shape the grocery industry beyond the state’s borders. As inflation strains shoppers’ wallets, our “Consumer Financial Health Report” projects what lies ahead for grocery spending and prices. Spend “15 Minutes With” Julie Chapon, co-founder of Yuka, an app that analyzes products for impacts on health and the environment. Nutritionist and wellness expert Katie Bressack discusses the grocery store as a destination for personalized wellness, and Kevin Coupe muses about the wellness paradox.

Don’t miss the following must-read sections from Issue 2:

  • GLP-1 Drugs and the Rise of Health-Conscious Consumers
    • Pg 16 | Michele Fuller
  • The California Consumers’ Financial Health
    • Pg 26 | Nate Rose
  • The California Health Laws that Shape the Landscape for Grocers
    • Pg 22 | Tim Townsend
  • The Wellness Paradox
    • Pg 8 | Kevin Coupe

California Grocers Association Endorses Reusable Plastic Bag Ban Bill

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CGA Helps Drive the State Towards a Common Sense and Sustainable Approach to Bags

Sacramento, CA (February 8, 2024) — Today during a press conference at the California State Capitol, the California Grocers Association announced its support of Sen. Catherine Blakespear’s (D-San Diego) and Asm. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan’s (D-Alameda) proposed bill banning the distribution of plastic film reusable bags for grocery retailers.

As consumer demand for sustainability evolves, CGA is helping guide this shift as a natural next step for grocery bags in California following the passage of SB 270 ten years ago, which eliminated single-use carryout bags. Without compromising convenience, this bill encourages a thoughtful approach to bags by prompting shoppers to bring reusable bags they already own from home. Consumers will still be able to purchase paper bags if they do not have a reusable bag.

“Beginning with the passage of SB 270 in 2014, California’s grocery industry has played a leading role in driving the state towards a common sense and responsible approach to the use of plastics and packaging by consumers,” said California Grocers Association VP of Government Relations, Daniel Conway. “We know that even the best policies may need to be updated over time to reflect changes in our society, so today marks the continuation of the work that started with SB 270 and is an important new chapter in our efforts to support the communities grocers serve and our environment.”

Effective January 1, 2026, the bill proposes that grocery stores may not provide a plastic film reusable grocery bag to consumers at the point of sale. To continue incentivizing waste reduction, grocers can offer non-plastic film reusable grocery bags or recycled paper bags to a consumer for no less than 10 cents at the point of sale. Reusable bags must meet certain requirements, like being made of washable material. Recycled paper bags are to be made available at no cost to WIC and SNAP customers.

“Consumers are calling for sustainable practices from California businesses, but still value a convenient shopping experience. This bill bridges the two to meet consumers where they are while demonstrating care for the environments in which our stores reside,” said CGA President and CEO Ron Fong.

About CGA

For more than 125 years, the California Grocers Association has served as the voice of the state’s grocery community. A nonprofit, statewide trade association, CGA’s membership is comprised of over 300 retailers operating more than 6,000 brick-and-mortar stores, and approximately 150 grocery supply companies.

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SEC Store Tour: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Gelson’s Markets in West LA

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On January 30, CGA’s Supplier Executive Council (SEC) had the privilege of gaining an exclusive look into strategic vision behind the latest Gelson’s Markets location in West LA. Hosted by the Gelson’s executives, such as John Bagan, Paul Kneeland, Tim Mahoney, and Rich Gillmore, this behind-the-scenes tour offered invaluable insights into the operations and innovation driving one of the region’s premier grocery chains.

The tour offered participating grocery suppliers and inside view into the culinary innovation that Gelson’s is leaning on to set its new stores apart. From farm-fresh produce to gourmet prepared foods, attendees witnessed firsthand the dedication to quality and variety that defines the Gelson’s experience. Each department showcased meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our hosts John Bagan, Paul Kneeland, Tim Mahoney, and Rich Gillmore for graciously sharing their expertise and hospitality during the SEC tour. Their passion for excellence and dedication to enriching the grocery industry left a lasting impression on all attendees.

Join the SEC

For those interested in joining the Supplier Executive Council and gaining access to exclusive events and networking opportunities like this, we encourage you to reach out to Sunny Porter at [email protected]. Membership in the SEC offers a unique chance to connect with industry leaders, stay abreast of the latest trends, and contribute to shaping the future of grocery retail.

Ron Fong Named a Most Admired CEO by Sacramento Business Journal

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President and CEO of California Grocers Association Ron Fong was named a Most Admired CEO for 2024 by Sacramento Business Journal. The award celebrates and recognizes local CEOs who have positively impacted their respective industries and contributed to the growth and success of Sacramento’s greater business community.

Honorees are selected by a peer group of CEOs, comprised of last year’s honorees, external nominations, and nominations by Sacramento Business Journal staff, that identifies influential local CEOs.

“Ron is a champion of the grocery industry in California and respected voice in the capitol community,” said CGA COO and Senior Vice President Doug Scholz. “This recognition from the Sacramento Business Journal is well deserved.”

The award comes as Ron begins his 16th year at the helm of CGA. During his tenure at CGA, Ron is credited with overhauling the government relations program, including the appointment of a new veteran lobbying and political team. In 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Ron to serve on his bi-partisan Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery to help plan the state’s economic recovery following the financial calamity resulting from COVID-19. Ron also serves as President to the CGA Educational Foundation, which supports education opportunities for grocery industry workers, and oversees the Foundation’s expanding education, research, career development, and college scholarship programs.

Ron was honored alongside 20 other honorees at the Most Admired CEOs awards ceremony on March 7, 2024 in Sacramento. Honorees include: Kenn Altine,  Sacramento SPCA; Derek Chase, OnSight Technology Inc.; Ethan Conrad, Ethan Conrad Properties; Brad DesJardin, DesCor Builders; Dawnté Early, United Way California Capital Region; Linda Farley, Girl Scouts Heart of Central California; Ronald Fong, California Grocers Association; Ginger Elizabeth Hahn, Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates; Lisa Hausmann, Mercy Hospital Folsom, Dignity Health; Preet Kuar, Pacific Staffing; Shobha Mallarapu, Anvaya Solutions Inc.; Heather Mauel, Dutch Bros Coffee Gold Country; Tony Moayed, Tricorp Group; Mymy Nguyen, Saigon Alley Kitchen & Bar; Michael Strech, North State Building Industry Association; Darrell Teat Jr., The Safety Center; Kim Tucker, Impact Foundry; Ali Wing, Oobli Inc.; and Rachel Zillner, Clutch.

View the Sacramento Business Journal press release here.

Independent Operators Symposium Photos 2024

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California’s independent grocery community kicked off 2024 on the Big Island of Hawaii for CGA’s annual Independent Operators Symposium. This immersive retreat allowed independent operators to step away from their family businesses to refocus and explore new opportunities for success.

In addition to relationship-building and taking time to recharge, our independent operators participated in inspiring educational sessions. President and CEO Ron Fong led attendees in the collaborative “Independent Exchange” share group discussion to tackle essential topics and challenges for family businesses; FMI President & CEO Leslie Sarasin walked attendees through FMI’s consumer trends report and sat down with Ron to discuss relevant developments in federal and state politics; Grocery veteran Steve Black revealed “The 5 Rules” for team transformation; and entertainer Sean Bott zeroed in on connection with top tips for attracting and retaining thriving talent.

Thank you to our independent operators for an energizing start to 2024! Check out event photos below. 

Lynn Melillo Elected CGA Board Chair

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Sacramento, CA (Dec. 4, 2023) – Lynn Melillo, Vice President of Asset Management, Bristol Farms, was elected the 2023-2024 California Grocers Association (CGA) Chair of the Board of Directors at the Association’s Annual Meeting on Dec. 1, 2023. 

As Chair, Melillo will take on a strategic role in overseeing CGA’s many legislative, educational, and industry-related programs. CGA is comprised of more than 350 retail companies, operating more than 6,000 stores in the west. The chair serves for one year. Melillo succeeds Dennis Darling, Owner, Foods, Etc. 

“Lynn’s robust career in grocery has equipped her with intimate knowledge of the industry and CGA’s legislative priorities,” said CGA President and CEO Ron Fong. “Her passion and dedication will serve our members and industry well over the next year.”

Melillo has more than 40 years of experience in the grocery industry, having spent the last 28 years at Bristol Farms. In her current role, Melillo oversees compliance, employee safety, customer safety, loss prevention, and insurance and risk for Bristol Farms, Lazy Acres, and New Leaf Community Markets. She holds a certificate in Human Resources Management, Business Administration from the University of California, Los Angeles. Melillo also participates on CGA’s Enterprise Risk Protection and Government Relations committees. 

In addition to Melillo, the following individuals were elected to the 2023-2024 CGA Board of Directors Executive Committee: First Vice Chair, Steve Dietz, UNFI; Second Vice Chair, Michel LeClerc, North State Grocery; Treasurer, Richard Wardwell, Superior Grocers; Secretary, Jonson Chen, Tawa Supermarket, Inc.; Immediate Past Chair, Dennis Darling, Foods Etc. 

Directors elected to their first full three-year team include: Gary Bickmore, FMS Solutions; Kevin Young, Young’s Payless IGA; JR Medina, Super A Foods; Rocky Campbell, C&K Markets; Joe Toscano, Nestle Purina PetCare; Jeremy Runge, Gopuff; Brad Thomas, Kimberly-Clark Corp.; Casey Scharetg E. & J. Gallo Winery; Nick Sass, The Hershey Company. 

Directors elected to their second full three-year term include: Elaina Budge, Costco Wholesale; Tyler Kidd, Mar-Val Food Stores, Inc.; Diane Snyder, Whole Foods Market; Kelli McGannon, The Kroger Company; Mary Kasper, 99 Cents Only Stores; Josh Southerland, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling. 

Elliott Stone, Mollie Stone’s Markets was appointed Executive Committee-IOC Chair. Other Chair Appointments include: Joe Mueller, Kellanova; Subriana Pierce, Navigator Sales, a C.A. Fortune company; Karl Schroeder, Albertsons Companies. Former CGA Chair Renee Amen, Super A Foods was elected an honorary board member.