Our …stores owned and operated independently since1884.”

The Central Ohio Retail Grocers Association (CORGA) is a non-profit trade association, located in Columbus, Ohio, which represents independent retail grocers, suppliers, vendors and wholesalers. Shawn Palmer has been the association’s executive director since December of 2010.

A Brief History:   The association was organized in 1884 as the Columbus Retail Grocers Association. Started by a small group of concerned grocers, it worked toward the enforcement of the Ohio Blue Laws, which were being violated at the time.

          In 1890, the Columbus Retail Grocers collaborated with the Ohio Retail Grocers Association to form what is now known as the Ohio Grocer’s Association. In 1923, the group purchased the Franklin Theatre to be home to the renamed United Grocer’s Home Company, and in 1945 the name changed back to the Columbus Retail Grocers Association. 

          These years were marked by what was claimed to be the nation’s largest food show, held in 1924, the development of the Bulletin as a communication channel and the expansion of the Association into 17 counties around Columbus.

          Because of this expansion, the Association elected to change its name in 1962 to the Central Ohio Retail Grocers Association, Inc. and moved its offices to a building erected for the purpose on Harrisburg Pike in Columbus.

          Today, CORGA has continue to grow without losing sight of its original intent: To bring about improved relations within the food industry while keeping public interest in mind, all within the framework of a favorable legislative climate.

          Currently, CORGA is managed by Able Management Solutions, Inc. The executive director and other staff are actively involved in seeking out additional benefits for members and developing a new, more effective website to drive member success.