New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors Urges Community Action as Inner-City Grocery Stores Face Economic and Security Crisis

NEW YORK, Oct. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Grocery stores in our inner cities are under siege, facing unprecedented challenges that threaten their survival and, by extension, the well-being of the communities they serve. As vital lifelines for families, these stores provide essential goods and services, yet they are grappling with a perfect storm of economic pressures and rising violence.

Operating on razor-thin profit margins of just two percent, inner city grocery stores are struggling to stay afloat. The financial strain is exacerbated by factors such as spoilage, increased energy costs, inspections, increased regulations, illegal distribution of competing goods, crime and rising rents. Additionally, the costs of goods continue to rise due to supply chain disruptions and other economic pressures, further squeezing these businesses.

In recent months, grocery stores have also become targets for organized theft, with gangs raiding stores in coordinated attacks. These incidents not only lead to massive theft but also cause significant destruction, resulting in millions of dollars in losses. The fear of violence and the need for heightened security measures divert crucial resources away from operations, leaving grocery store owners in a precarious position.

"It is essential that we recognize the hard work and dedication of grocery store owners who rise early and stay late to serve their communities," said David M Schwartz, Esq, Director of the New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors. "Labeling them as price gougers due to rising costs is not only misguided but harmful. These hardworking individuals are trying to provide for their families and communities under increasingly difficult circumstances."

Grocery stores play a crucial role in the well-being of inner-city residents by providing access to nutritious food and creating job opportunities. The absence of these stores can result in food deserts, where residents face significant challenges in accessing healthy food options, leading to negative health outcomes and increased reliance on convenience stores that offer less nutritious choices.

To combat this crisis, community members are urged to support their local grocery stores by shopping there and advocating for policies that reduce their financial burden. Additionally, efforts to enhance security measures and raise awareness about the challenges these businesses face are crucial for their survival.

"We must come together as a community to support our local grocery stores. They are more than businesses; they are integral parts of our neighborhoods. If we want to see them thrive, we must act now. We should be lifting grocery stores and celebrating the hardworking employees of these stores by providing incentives to thrive and survive. Blaming the grocery stores for rising prices is completely unconscionable and the blame game needs to stop. The only reason for rising grocery costs is inflation, plain and simple," David Schwartz added.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:
David Schwartz
Jacqueline Téllez
New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors
[email protected]
212-641-0499

About the New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors:

The New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors is a leading organization dedicated to representing the interests of retailers, wholesalers and distributors in New York. Committed to fostering a legal and fair marketplace, NYAWD advocates for policies that promote economic growth, public safety, and the sustainability of legitimate businesses.

SOURCE New York Association of Wholesalers and Distributors