For the third time, Associated Food Stores (AFS) has been recognized among the top retail distributors of Certified Angus Beef (CAB). At the 2025 CAB Annual Conference, AFS ranked #3 out of 115 retail distributors worldwide based on pounds of beef sold.
AFS became a licensed CAB Retail Distributor in 2008. At the time, many member retailer stores sold USDA Select beef, a lower grade commonly found in retail. Starting from zero pounds in 2008, AFS has grown the program to represent about 75 percent of beef sales today, excluding Harmon’s and Ridley’s, which carry other brands.
This growth benefits both retailers and shoppers. CAB is the first and leading branded beef program in the world, and AFS is the only licensed retail distributor in its markets. That exclusivity gives AFS an advantage against competitors, both at retail and at the warehouse.
The award shows the long-term focus AFS has placed on quality. Guests see that in stores through premium beef products and strong point-of-sale materials. Competing retailers often sell a lower grade of beef, but AFS stores set themselves apart by offering the CAB brand.
Marty Berlin, director of meat for AFS, said the recognition highlights years of commitment, “Our retailers and team members take pride in selling Certified Angus Beef. It is the number one branded beef program in the world, and ranking #3 worldwide proves how much our shoppers value quality. We are proud to stand behind a program that gives our retailers a real edge in the marketplace.”
Many teams throughout the company helped make this success possible, including Meat Sales Specialists, Buyers, the Category Manager, the Marketing Team, the Advertising Team, and the CAB staff. Their combined efforts help AFS retailers deliver the best beef to shoppers every day.