DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA) has named John and Chad Cropper, owners of Crop’s Fresh Marketplace in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, as IGA USA Retailers of the Year. The prestigious annual award recognizes IGA member grocers who have shown outstanding leadership and service to their communities.
The Croppers, whose family started in the grocery business as an IGA back in 1953, will be honored at the IGA Awards of Excellence Ceremony on March 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The nomination came from their Licensed Distribution Center, Bozzuto’s Inc.
IGA CEO John Ross and Senior Vice President of Retail and Business Development Doug Fritsch visited Crop’s Fresh Marketplace on January 26 and experienced firsthand how the retailer interacts with employees, customers, and the broader community.
Following the visit, the committee selected one IGA USA Retailer of the Year for the IGA International Retailer of the Year award, to be presented at the Awards of Excellence Ceremony. Other honorees at the event include fellow IGA Retailers of the Year from other countries, along with selected Red Oval partners and wholesalers.
Crop’s Fresh Marketplace has been a beacon in the Chester County community, participating in multiple IGA programs, including the national digital ad, the IGA Coca-Cola Institute, and the quarterly IGA marketing program. The store has successfully integrated the IGA branding philosophies of “Local Equals Fresh” and “Hometown Proud” into its operations and community outreach.
The Croppers have made significant strides in embracing modern retail technology, using social media and digital marketing to distinguish their store. Their efforts extend to physical upgrades, such as new kitchen equipment, a state-of-the-art salad bar from Picadeli, and an in-house smoker run by the prepared foods department. Crop’s also offers a wide assortment of IGA Exclusive Brands private label products, providing added value for budget-conscious customers.
In addition to their business acumen, the Croppers have shown dedication to their community, hosting neighborhood events like car shows, Girl Scout Trunk or Treats, church and youth organization car wash fundraisers, and food drive shopping events. They’ve also partnered with local farms and vendors, reinforcing their commitment to local freshness.
The recognition of Crop’s Fresh Marketplace is a testament to the store’s commitment to quality, community service, and innovation, truly embodying what it means to be a modern-day IGA.
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