[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 19 (Tuesday, January 27, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E76]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INDEPENDENT GROCERS ALLIANCE

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                        HON. RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 27, 2026

  Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th 
anniversary of the Independent Grocers Alliance. Founded in 1926 by 
Chicago entrepreneur J. Frank Grimes, IGA began with a bold and simple 
vision: to bring together independent grocery stores under one banner 
to provide local communities with quality products, fair prices, and 
personalized service. Over the past century, that vision has grown into 
a powerful global alliance of thousands of independently owned grocery 
stores serving towns and cities across America and around the world.
  From its earliest days, IGA has embodied the spirit of Main Street 
America: entrepreneurial, community-minded, and deeply committed to 
service. Its member stores are often family-owned businesses that have 
supported local jobs, sponsored youth sports teams, and supplied fresh 
food to rural and urban neighborhoods alike. Through wars, economic 
downturns, and changing retail trends, IGA retailers have continued to 
adapt, innovate, and thrive.
  Today, as the grocery industry evolves through technology and 
shifting consumer needs, IGA's enduring commitment to local ownership 
and community engagement remains as strong as ever. The alliance's 
focus on innovation, local food and support for local businesses, and 
customer care ensures that independent grocers will continue to play a 
vital role in our Nation's food system for the next hundred years.
  I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating this milestone and in 
recognizing IGA's century-long dedication to the people and places that 
define America's Main Streets. I extend my warmest congratulations to 
the Independent Grocers Alliance on its 100th anniversary and wish 
continued success for many years to come.

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