AWG

At the heart of Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) is a culture deeply rooted in the success of the independent grocer. Founded in 1924 by a small group of retailers who understood the power of collaboration, AWG was built on the principle that working together creates a strength that allows local businesses to thrive against national chains. This cooperative spirit remains the company's guiding force. The mission is clear and unwavering: to provide member-retailers with all the tools, products, and services they need to compete favorably in any market. This is achieved by ensuring top-quality merchandise and comprehensive support services are available at the lowest possible cost, with all profits ultimately returned to the members. This model fosters a unique partnership where the company's success is intrinsically linked to the prosperity of the family-owned businesses it serves.

The internal culture at AWG is defined by a set of core values: Humility, Accountability, Transparency, and Serving. These aren't just words on a wall; they are the pillars of the organization's identity. Humility drives genuine collaboration and active listening, ensuring that feedback from members, employees, and vendor partners is embraced to continuously improve. Accountability means a collective commitment to delivering on promises and achieving results, empowering employees to be innovative and solution-oriented. Transparency is paramount, with a dedication to honest, open, and ethical dealings in every interaction. Above all, the value of Serving encapsulates the company's passion for supporting its members, employees, and partners. This dedication has fueled nearly a century of growth, expanding from a modest Kansas City operation into the nation's largest cooperative food wholesaler, a testament to the enduring power of community and shared success.