Advocates for Independent Grocers
Since 1940, Associated Food Stores has been advocating for 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.
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.
Enriching lives one grocer, one family; one meal at a time.
Passion
We display an internal fire, excitement, initiative, humble confidence, and desire to win. We are driven, resilient, positive, and look for innovative, win-win solutions.
Fun
We display enthusiasm and enjoy work, achievement, random acts of kindness, and building friendships.
Accountability
We display dependability, responsibility, and ownership in success and mistakes. We have a sense of obligation and seek opportunities to improve.
Integrity
We display honesty, transparency, trust, character, and ethics.
Teamwork
We display respect, good communication, and a commitment to commonly held goals and standards.
Heart
We display empathy, compassion, and desire for the success of others. We are genuine, loving, and sincere.
THE HISTORY OF AFS
Serving Grocers Since 1940
Since 1940 we have grown from 34 retailers in Utah to nearly 450 independent grocers across Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oregon.
Learn More About AFS
Our corporate office, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, is home to a variety of wholesale and retail operations that lead to the success of our member retailers.
The Farr West Distribution Center provides groceries, non-foods goods, and other products to more than 400 retailers across eight states.
The Associated Retail Operations (ARO) team oversees operations at Lin’s, Macey’s, Dan’s, Dick’s, Fresh Market and select Ace Hardware stores.
