IGA America

IGA is an American grocery store chain founded in 1926. They currently operate in over 26 countries, which include: USA, Canada, Australia, China, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, South Korea, Poland, Philippines, Fiji, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, and more. They are planning to open stores in Ireland and Türkiye in the future. 
== History ==
In May 1926, the first 100 IGA stores were opened. These stores were made when many different independent grocers came together under one name to simplify marketing. The original CEO of IGA was J. Frank Grimes. 
All IGA locations are independently owned by separate people. This lets owners have lots of flexibility on how they want to run their stores. In 1930, IGA had over 1 000 locations in America. Around this time, IGA made their own food brand which uses the name name as the store itself, this brand is still used in American markets. 
In the 1950s, IGA expanded to the Canadian market, they quickly spread across many Canadian Provinces. In 1964, the Canadian division was bought by the Oshawa Group.
Because every IGA store is independently owned, its quite easy for stores to open in other countries because IGA doesn't have to worry about advertising and food distribution. In America, IGA stores are usually found in less populated areas where there is less competition. 
However, stores within the American alliance are supplied with IGA brand products by the IGA company. Alliance stores also do various community events and fundraisers all at once. Alliance stores also have special training programs which are provided by the IGA company.
IGA continues to be a successful chain of grocery stores in America and many other countries. 
== See Also ==
IGA Disambiguation: IGA 
Category:North America
Category:Supermarkets
Category:Retailers
Category:1926 establishments
Category:International stores
Category:Companies
Category:Franchises