Ohio Grocers Association Announces Association Management Partnership with Midwest Retail & Grocery Alliance
July 22, 2026 | 3 min to read
Columbus, Ohio — The Ohio Grocers Association (OGA) is pleased to announce a new
association management partnership with the Midwest Retail & Grocery Alliance (MRGA), a
move designed to strengthen the association’s operations while maintaining its unwavering
commitment to serving Ohio’s grocery industry.
The partnership will provide OGA with additional administrative and operational support while
preserving the association’s mission, priorities, advocacy efforts and member services. Ohio
grocery retailers, wholesalers, suppliers and industry partners can expect business as usual, with
the same dedication to legislative advocacy, industry education, networking opportunities and
member resources that have long defined the organization.
“This partnership represents an investment in OGA’s future,” said OGA Executive Director Joe
Ewig. “Our members should know that nothing changes regarding our commitment to Ohio’s
grocery industry. We will continue to be a strong advocate for retailers, provide valuable
resources and education and create opportunities for our members to connect and grow. By
partnering with MRGA, we are enhancing our ability to serve members while positioning OGA
for continued success.”
OGA Board Chairman Ron Graff Jr. echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the organization’s
continued focus on its members and industry leadership.
“OGA has built a strong reputation as the voice of Ohio’s grocery industry, and this partnership
allows us to build upon that foundation,” said Graff. “The Board of Directors carefully evaluated
this opportunity and believes it will strengthen the association for years to come. Our members
can be confident that OGA will continue to deliver the advocacy, relationships and industry
support they have come to expect.”
MRGA President & CEO Dan Shaul said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to
supporting independent retailers and advancing the grocery industry throughout the Midwest.
“We are honored to partner with the Ohio Grocers Association and support its important work on
behalf of Ohio’s grocery industry,” said Shaul. “OGA has a long history of effective advocacy
and member engagement. Our role is to provide the management support and resources
necessary to ensure the association continues thriving while allowing its leadership to remain
focused on serving members and advancing the industry.”
OGA leaders emphasized that the partnership will not alter the association’s governance
structure, advocacy priorities or commitment to Ohio retailers. Instead, the collaboration is
intended to enhance operational efficiencies and create additional opportunities to serve
members through expanded resources, programs and industry engagement.
As OGA continues its next chapter under the leadership of Executive Director Joe Ewig and
Chairman Ron Graff Jr., the association remains focused on protecting and promoting Ohio’s
grocery industry while building on its tradition of excellence.
About the Ohio Grocers Association
The Ohio Grocers Association is the leading advocate for Ohio’s grocery industry, representing
retailers, wholesalers, suppliers and industry partners. Through advocacy, education, networking
and industry leadership, OGA works to ensure a strong and competitive grocery marketplace
throughout Ohio.
About the Midwest Retail & Grocery Alliance
The Midwest Retail & Grocery Alliance provides association management, advocacy, education
and member services to state and regional retail and grocery organizations. MRGA works to
strengthen the retail and grocery industries by delivering operational support, strategic leadership
and industry expertise.