---
title: "Keynote: Challenges & Opportunities for Independent Grocers in COVID & Beyond"
description: IGA CEO John Ross' keynote shares how to use shopper behavior insights & IGA tools to overcome challenges & capitalize on opportunities.
image: https://www.iga.com/hubfs/Newsletters/_archive/IGA%20Minute/2021/102821/Grocery%20challenges-1200w.jpeg
---
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1 min read
# Keynote: Challenges & Opportunities for Independent Grocers in COVID & Beyond
Written by [John Ross](https://www.iga.com/insights/author/john-ross)
Oct 28, 2021
The last two years have shifted shopper behavior in many ways—some expected and some not. As independent retailers look to what lasting impact the pandemic will have on their businesses and the next generation of shoppers, they must also try to determine how to earn and keep the sales they've gained during the pandemic.
In this keynote presentation during this week's IGA Global Rally virtual event, IGA CEO John Ross addresses challenges facing retailers not just in the U.S., but globally, including:
- Where can I find workers for my store?
- How do I take care of my managers and associates?
- How can I keep products in stock in the midst of global supply chain disruption?
- How can I manage prices when prices are rising while taking care of low-income shoppers?
- How do I protect my small business from cyber crime?
As IGA grows globally and nationally, with more brands engaging with IGA than ever before, Ross also shares the opportunities for independent grocers now and post-COVID to drive sales by concentrating on new shopper trends, including:
- Helping shoppers become more confident through shopper education
- Trust and preference for private label
- eCommerce as a component of customer service
- Converting the shift to digital into a personal relationship with the shopper
Watch Ross' presentation for valuable insights into the independent grocery industry now and post-COVID and learn how retailers can use these insights and IGA tools to overcome their biggest challenges and capitalizing on available opportunities.
*Sponsored by Coca-Cola*
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