September 30, 2025 —The Independent Natural Food Retailers Association (INFRA) proudly marks its 20th anniversary this year, celebrating two decades of strengthening and championing independent natural food retailers across the nation.
Founded in 2005 by four visionary retailers—Earth Fare, New Frontiers, New Leaf Community Markets, and Jimbo’s…Naturally!—INFRA has grown from a small network of like-minded pioneers into a vibrant cooperative of more than 380 retailers and 630 storefronts nationwide, representing a collective $3.2 billion in sales. Over the past 20 years, INFRA has become a powerful voice and partner for independents, offering the purchasing power, operational resources, and peer collaboration needed to thrive in a rapidly changing grocery landscape. INFRA Members consistently outpace the natural channel in sales, a testament to the strength of cooperation and the collective commitment to healthier, more sustainable communities.
“For two decades, INFRA has been about more than buying power—it’s been about building community, resilience, and a future where independent natural food retailers thrive,” said Pat Sheridan, President & CEO of INFRA. “We started with four pioneering retailers, and today we stand together with hundreds of members shaping the natural foods movement in their local communities. As we celebrate 20 years, we’re not only honoring our past, but also embracing a bold vision: reaching 1,000 communities by 2028 and proving that independents, united, are an unstoppable force for good.”
Looking ahead, INFRA is committed to expanding its impact by enhancing member access to supply chain solutions, strengthening differentiated product offerings, and helping independents deliver competitive value to their shoppers. This forward-looking strategy is fueled by INFRA’s belief that independent retailers are the heartbeat of a thriving food system—one that supports local economies, increases access to healthy food, and builds a more sustainable future.
Emily Kanter, INFRA Member and Board of Directors Chair, added, “This vision is not just a destination, it’s a shared journey. We are committed to advancing it through intentional growth: expanding our reach, deepening our partnerships, and investing in tools and programs that build resilience and power for all INFRA Members.”
As INFRA celebrates this milestone year, it does so with gratitude for its members, partners, and communities—and with an unwavering commitment to the next chapter of growth, innovation, and collective impact.
About INFRA
INFRA is a cooperative of independent natural food and wellness retailers serving hundreds of communities across the United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. INFRA offers retailers the purchasing power, operational excellence, and peer support they need to thrive in today’s competitive grocery landscape. By simplifying day-to-day operations, INFRA empowers retailers to focus on what truly matters—making healthy, sustainable food accessible to all. As a Certified B Corporation, INFRA is committed to meeting a high standard of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Learn more here.
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