In the past month PG&E power shutoffs have quickly become the new normal in California as the energy company works to mitigate wildfire across the state.
Because of the impact on our grocery community, CGA has taken a leading role in becoming a stakeholder for emergency planning solutions, but also in making our industry’s voice heard in the broader public.
On Thursday, October 25, The Wall Street Journal interviewed CGA CEO and President Ron Fong, who shared why grocery stores are among those most impacted by the recent shutdowns.
Grocery stores have been among the most affected during the shutdown because of their perishable inventory. Preliminary numbers indicate that grocers in California lost anywhere from $3,000 to $100,000 a store from the last blackout, said Ronald Fong, chief executive of the California Grocers Association trade group.
While many smaller grocers are planning to buy generators this year, Mr. Fong said it is a strain for them. Generators can cost $100,000 to buy and $20,000 a day to rent.
The Association has also worked to advocate for the industry at the Capitol, penning a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom and PG&E. You can read the letter below.