Let’s Gather Again

Posted on June 1, 2026June 1, 2026 by Grace Becker

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CGA’s Annual Convention Returns to Rancho Mirage September 27-29, 2026

The California Grocers Association is thrilled to welcome you back to Gather California, our bold annual convention that helps brands like yours break into the state’s ultra-competitive grocery market. Gather brings the industry together to build relationships and explore emerging trends shaping the future of grocery.

Registration is now open. Get a head start and save with special presale rates. Prices go up July 1, so don’t wait.

Stay in Style

We’re thrilled to return to the elevated Westin Rancho Mirage Resort and Spa, a spacious resort spread across 365 acres in the beautiful Coachella Valley. The resort is a convenient drive from downtown Palm Springs and offers a serene escape with premium amenities.

Attendees will enjoy upgraded accommodations and access to all property amenities, including a Pete Dye-designed championship golf course, multiple swimming pools, and an award-winning on-site spa.

Grow Your Brand at Gather

Our event connects brands with California’s top retailers—from independent operators to large chains. Sponsors of Gather get the added benefit of pre-arranged meetings with selected participating retailers, opening the door to valuable relationships and new business opportunities.

Our packages are fully customizable to align with your objectives, so click the link below to view available sponsorship opportunities. Reach out to Dave Cook, Business Development Manager, to start the conversation.

Learn More

Read CA Grocer Issue 1 Here

Posted on April 29, 2026April 29, 2026 by Grace Becker

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What’s For Dinner: What Americans are Eating Now

The latest issue of California Grocer unpacks the myriad transitions happening in the food industry right now. We start off by exploring the USDA’s new nutrition guidance, which has quite literally turned the old food pyramid on its head, putting a new emphasis on whole foods.

Following on the heels of the protein craze, Issue 1 projects fiber as the next big thing in nutrition. We also have a candid conversation with industry-favorite economist Dr. Thornberg to talk about exactly why it’s not a K-shaped economy. Finally, we get some one-on-one time with Illuminators Headlite Lori Brown and celebrate Cal Poly’s win at the NGA Case Study Competition.

Don’t miss the following must-read sections from Issue 1:

Turning the Famous Food Pyramid on Its Head
- Pg. 16 | Katie Bressack
A Thread on Fiber, the Next Big Nutrition Trend
- Pg. 20 | Katie Bressack
Counterpoint: It’s Not a K-Shaped Economy
- Pg. 30 | Dorsey Griffith
Illuminator Headlite Lori Brown
- Pg. 44 | Dorsey Griffith

Click here to read Issue 1.

CGA Educational Foundation Fulfills Goal of $1 Million in Annual Scholarships

Posted on April 7, 2026April 7, 2026 by Grace Becker

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More than 80 Companies and Individuals Contributed to CGAEF to Reach This Milestone

SACRAMENTO, CA (April 2026) – The CGA Educational Foundation (CGAEF) has reached an exciting new landmark, receiving commitments for $1 million in available funds for college scholarships and industry development for the 2026-27 academic year.

By late March, the Foundation had raised $978k through its regular channels, consisting of donations from individuals and company partners, but was still $22k away from fulfilling its goal. Seeing that this milestone was close within reach, CEO of OK Produce Brady Matoian called on his fellow CGA Board Directors to work together to close the gap, committing his company to match donations to help CGAEF reach the $1 million landmark.

“It’s no surprise that this industry has once again gone above and beyond to take care of its community. The outstanding show of generosity demonstrated by our industry donors will enrich the next generation of grocery leaders for years to come,” said Chair of the CGAEF Board of Trustees Adam Salgado, Heritage Grocers Giving Foundation.

The CGA Educational Foundation, which has offered industry scholarships since the program’s inception in 1998, began partnering with CGA member companies to fund scholarship opportunities in 2000. Engagement and donations from member companies has grown the Foundation into what it is today: a source of growth, education, and professional development for the grocery industry.

“Seeing competitors come together for the benefit and betterment of its workforce is awe-inspiring. On behalf of the CGAEF Board of Trustees, we are deeply grateful to our donors that are helping make dreams come true and securing the bright future of the grocery industry,” said CGA President and CEO, CGAEF President Ron Fong.

In 2024, CGAEF mounted another significant milestone, awarding $10 million in college scholarships to grocery industry employees and their dependents for nearly 30 years. To date, the Foundation has awarded 6,985 scholarships, totaling more than $11.4 million.

“I am humbled by all of those who have contributed to help the Educational Foundation reach this milestone to award $1 million this academic year, from generous industry veterans to altruistic company partners. It is an incredible testament to the collaboration and generosity this industry is known for,” said CGAEF Senior Director Brianne Page.

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.

Thank you to our generous donors:

Adam Salgado
Albertsons, LLC
Anheuser-Busch
Anthony Escobar
Baker Tilly
Bertha Luna
Big Saver Foods, Inc.
Brad Thomas
Brady Matoian
Bristol Farms
C&S Wholesale Grocers
Casey Scharteg
Certified Federal Credit Union
Chang So
Chris Dehoff
Dale Stern
Dave & Julie Hirz
Dennis & the late Ruth Darling
Dennis J. Belcastro
Donna Tyndall & Mike Ketcham
Elaina Budge
Eric Pearlman
Gelson’s Markets
George & Debbi Frahm
Heritage Grocers Group/Cardenas Markets
Illuminators Educational Foundation
Instacart
Jeremy Cullifer
Jim & Judy Van Gorkom
Joe & Dolly Falvey
Jon Giannini
Judy & the late Bernard Briskin
Kellanova
Kendra & John Doyel
Kevin Young
Kimberly Clark Corp.
Kristen Sherwood
Mar-Val Food Stores
Matthew Dodson & Erin Johnson
Michel LeClerc
Mike & Renee Stigers
Mike & Sharon Stone
Mike Molinar
Nancy Negrette
Nick Malm
Nick Sass
North State Grocery, Inc.
Nutricion Fundamental, Inc.
OK Produce
Oliver’s Market
PAQ Inc. dba Food 4 Less & Rancho San Miguel Markets
PepsiCo Beverages North America
Pete & Tanya Van Helden
Peter & Jody Larkin
Post Consumer Brands
Ralphs/Food 4 Less
RMS, Inc.
Rob & Leah McDougall
Ron Fong
Ryan & Julie Adams
Safeway Northern California Division
Seaside Market Inc.
Sergio Gonzalez
Smart & Final Stores
Stater Bros. Markets
Steve Brancamp
Subriana Pierce
Super A Foods, Inc.
Super King Markets
Superior Foundation
The Hershey Company
the late Ellyn Gelson
The Save Mart Companies
the Villanueva Family
Treasury Wine Estates
Tyler & Kara Kidd Family
UNFI
Vallarta Supermarkets
Whole Foods Market
Willie & Mary Crocker
WK Kellogg Co.
Young’s Payless Market IGA

CGA Strengthens Events Team with New Talent

Posted on April 3, 2026April 3, 2026 by Grace Becker

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Certified Meeting Professional and KeHe Accounts Rep Join Events and Sponsorship Team

The California Grocers Association is proud to welcome two experienced professionals to the marketing and events team, Pascale Senejoux, director of events and sponsorship, and Dave Cook, business development manager.

“The Association is thrilled to welcome extraordinary new talent to the team to elevate our signature industry events and strengthen our relationships with our corporate partners,” said Chief Operating Offer Doug Scholz. “With Pascale’s background as a Certified Meeting Professional and Dave’s long history in the food industry, we look forward to the expertise and fresh perspectives they each bring to their roles and CGA’s offerings.”

As Director of Events and Sponsorship, Senejoux will produce the Association’s meetings, events, and annual conference, Gather California, from conception through to completion. She will also oversee sponsorship development and the work of a combined sales team to ensure revenue budgets are achieved.

Prior to joining CGA, Senejoux served as Vice President of Operations and Client Service at financial advisory practice Sutley Wetzer, Inc. She also served as Director of Event Management for San Diego Tourism Authority. In addition to her certification in meeting planning, Senejoux holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from San Diego State University.

As business development manager, Cook will develop and implement the Association’s sponsorship plans to generate revenue and build strong, long-term relationships with corporate partners.

Cook has more than 20 years of experience in the food industry, most recently working as a Key Accounts Rep for KeHe Distributors. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology from California Polytechnic University.

Both roles report to Chief Operating Officer Doug Scholz.

Rachael O’Brien, Former CDFA Legislative Secretary, Named CGA VP of Government Relations

Posted on February 23, 2026February 23, 2026 by Grace Becker

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Senior Newsom Political Appointee Will Lead CGA’s Government Affairs Departments as Chief Lobbyist

The California Grocers Association is pleased to announce that Rachael O’Brien has been hired as Vice President, Government Relations, effective February 9, 2026.

In this position, O’Brien will serve as the Association’s chief lobbyist and be responsible for managing all aspects of CGA’s advocacy efforts. She will represent CGA member companies on strategic advocacy efforts before the State Legislature, regulatory agencies and local municipalities, as well as manage CGA’s government relations staff, contract lobbyists, and political action committee (PAC).

“Rachael will make an outstanding addition to the Association’s government relations program,” said President and CEO Ron Fong. “She is highly skilled in the legislative and regulatory process, an expert at policy negotiations and bill analysis, and maintains excellent relationships within the capitol community. Rachael knows what it takes to feed California and will be a key asset to the Association and its members.”

Prior to joining CGA, O’Brien served as Deputy Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the California Department of Food and Agriculture for eight years and was a Senior Political Appointee for Governors Brown and Newsom. She played a key role in leading state initiatives including California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley, California Broadband Council, California Jobs First, and Farm to School Interagency Working Groups. Previously, she served as Manager of Government Affairs for Agricultural Council of California.

O’Brien graduated from CSU Monterey Bay with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International/Global Studies. She is currently a member of California Women Lead and recently served on the Board of Farms Food Future (F3). Previously, she served on the Capitol Network Board of Directors as President and was a mentor for SheShares.

Contact Rachael directly via email at [email protected].

CGA Welcomes New Board Chair, Richard Wardwell

Posted on December 12, 2025December 17, 2025 by Grace Becker

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The Superior Grocers CEO will bring a passion for affordability, homelessness, and mental health to the industry.

SACRAMENTO, CA – On Friday, December 5, 2025, Richard Wardwell, president and CEO at Superior Grocers, was elected the California Grocers Association Board Chair. With the gavel passed, Wardwell will lead the Board’s strategy regarding CGA’s numerous legislative, educational, and industry-related programs over the next year. Wardwell succeeds Michel LeClerc, Chief Administrative Officer, North State Grocery.

At Superior Grocers, Wardwell spearheads the company’s business strategy and oversees internal culture. Wardwell has been with Superior Grocers, which serves primarily Latino communities across 74 locations, for 11 years. Prior, he spent 25 years with Raley’s, including three years as vice president of operations for the food source division.

“Rich has an admirable track record of helping those in need and has already set a clear vision to help improve affordability, and support homelessness and mental health programs during his tenure as Chair,” said CGA President and CEO Ron Fong. “An active member of the industry and CGA Board for many years, I’m confident his integrity, compassion, and drive will be of great service to our grocery community over the next year.” 

Wardwell will be joined on the CGA Executive Board by First Vice Chair, Johnson Chen, 99 Ranch Markets; Second Vice Chair, Bertha Luna, Stater Bros. Markets; Treasurer, Elliott Stone, Mollie Stone’s Markets; and Secretary, Sergio Gonzalez, Northgate Gonzalez Markets.

Directors elected to their first full three-year term include: Steve Tsujimoto, Berkeley Bowl Marketplace; Adam Caldecott, Good Food Holdings; Shant Fermanian, Super King Markets; Ryan Adams, Gelson’s Markets; Kristen Sherwood, Grocery Outlet; Priyanka Vijay, Keurig Dr. Pepper; Dom Engles, Classic Wines of California; Anthony Escobar, NuCal Foods; Taylor Chappell, Anheuser-Busch InBev; and Adam Deardoff, FMS Solutions.

Directors elected to their second full three-year term include: Chris Dehoff, Dehoff’s Key Market; Michael Molinar, PAQ, Inc.; Brandon McAbee, Bimbo Bakeries USA; and Stephanie Wu, The Save Mart Companies.

Chang So, Hollister Super, was elected the Independent Operators chair designee. Brenda Palomino, Amazon; Subriana Pierce, C.A. Fortune; and Joe Mueller, Mars Snacking, were elected the Chair’s Appointees. Former CGA Chair Lynn Melillo, Bristol Farms, was elected an honorary board member.

Lawmakers Join CGA at Government Relations Summit

Posted on November 12, 2025November 12, 2025 by Grace Becker

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CGA Hosts Government Relations Summit in Southern California

In early November, CGA convened its government relations committee for a year-end summit in Southern California to assess the year’s outcomes and look ahead to 2026. The summit featured three interactive panels discussions with guest speakers from the Legislature, grocery industry, and capitol community.

Grocery and Tech

Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, Ashley Hoffman from the California Chamber of Commerce, and Kris Staaf from Albertsons Companies discussed attempts from the legislature to regulate AI and grocery technology, including self-checkout laws and surveillance pricing.

The Future of Food Policy

Assembly Republican leader Heath Flora, CGA Chair Michel LeClerc, and CGA’s VP of Communications and Public Affairs Nate Rose discussed the politicization of ingredients, the MAHA movement, and how the industry can get ahead of this evolving conversation.

Packaging and Plastics

CGA’s lead contract lobbyist Louie Brown and Director of Local Government Relations Tim James led an engaging discussion on SB 54 implementation, plastic bags, and CRV recycling.

After the program, guests mingled with lawmakers and colleagues during an evening reception and dinner. Thank you to all who joined us for a productive summit!

Thanks for Gathering

Posted on October 6, 2025October 6, 2025 by Grace Becker

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On the last weekend of September, CGA kicked off the first Gather California in Rancho Mirage. This reimagined conference brought the California grocery community together at a premium resort location for three days of connection, productive business meetings, and fresh insights. We hope those who attended feel more connected than ever to grocery peers and prepared to thrive in the California market.

In addition to our brand-new venue, our reimagined event featured several new events and connective networking experiences, including the Collaboration Kickoff, DIY Networking Adventure, and Dine For A Cause. The popular Emerging Brands Pitch Contest made its return for the fourth year, with Maple Pop! taking home first place. Our General Session program featured an insightful panel discussion between President of Food 4 Less/Foods Co. Kendra Doyel, CGA Board Chair and Chief Administrative Officer of North State Grocery, Inc. Michel LeClerc, and author and political strategist Mike Madrid about what makes doing business in California unique.

Keynote speakers Brent Gleeson, Victoria LaBalme and Chris Failla offered their perspectives on leadership and adaptability through our evolving industry over a series of education sessions. Though we made several changes to this year’s event, Gather also reprised our crowd-favorite Independent Grocers Forum and Enterprise Risk Protection Executive Summit.

Let’s Gather Again

Thank you to all of those who were a part of the first Gather California. Save the date for the next Gather California, taking place September 27-29, 2026 at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage, California. We can’t wait to gather again!

Visit gathercalifornia.com for more information.

CGA Board Experiences Retail Tomorrow

Posted on August 14, 2025August 14, 2025 by Grace Becker

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The CGA Board of Directors took a spin through the future of retail for an immersive Retail Tomorrow experience. Our group visited the Irvine and Young Design Academy at USC to talk all things AI and retail, lunched atop the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, met with entrepreneurial-minded Venture Capitalists Michael Jones and Peter Pham, and TikTok-shopped our way through Santa Monica’s 3rd Street Promenade.

Thank you to our sponsors Kimberly Clark, Instacart, RMS Inc., Kellanova, and Certified Federal Credit Union for making this trip to the future possible. View event photos below.

Issue 1: The Rise of the MAHA Movement

Posted on May 12, 2025May 13, 2025 by Grace Becker

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Exploring Make America Healthy Again

The national conversation around public health and wellness is changing, thanks in part to a movement led by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In Issue 1 of California Grocer magazine, we unpack the Make America Healthy Again or “MAHA” movement and explore the personalities driving the online conversation about reshaping how Americans eat. Plus, our columnists take on the MAHA movement, from ultra-processed foods to artificial food dyes.

While this issue will bring you up to speed on all things MAHA, we also highlight industry leadership and burgeoning talent. Meet this year’s CGA Rising Stars of California’s grocery community and get to know The Illuminators Headlite, CGA Board Member, and industry powerhouse Subriana Pierce.

Click here to read Issue 1.

Be sure to add the following sections to your reading list:

From Food Dyes to Clean Labels: How food culture wars are redefining the aisles
- Pg. 16 | Michele Fuller

Idols: Influencers move the needle on health and wellness
- Pg. 20 | Grace Becker
The Rising Stars of the Grocery Community: Highlighting the best and brightest talent in the grocery industry
- Pg. 24 | Grace Becker
Subriana Pierce, 95th Headline and President of The Illuminators
- Pg. 34 | Dorsey Griffith