Advocates for Independent Grocers
Since 1940, Associated Food Stores has been advocating for the independent grocers throughout the Intermountain West. In that time, membership has grown from 34 independent grocers to over 400 today; operating a 1-million-square-foot warehouse in Farr West, Utah; and the integration of new technologies in the grocery industry.
From Our Founding
In 1940 the grocery industry was a rough place for independent retailers. Strong competition from national chains, increased prices from wholesalers and low margins left many families and independently-owned businesses with boarded windows. Determined to succeed against the competition, 34 independent retailers and Donald P. Lloyd, the then president of the Utah Grocers Association, joined together to combine their buying power and open a warehouse, leading to the birth of AFS.
The foundational elements that were laid in 1940 are present today and represented in our Mission, Values and Compass for Excellence.
Click to view full documents.
Corporate Office
Our corporate office, located in SLC, UT, is home to a variety of wholesale and retail operations and support leading to the success of our retailers.
Distribution Center
The Farr West Distribution Center provides groceries, non-foods goods, and other products to more than 400 retailers across eight states.
ARO
Associated Retail Operations team oversees operations at the six corporately-owned store banners.
If you are interested in working at one of our corporately-owned stores, click the store logo below.
