April 15, 2025

ASG Leaders Appointed to 2025 Catholic Institute of the Food Industry Board

Associated Supermarket Group proudly announces that team members Matthew Amore, Roberto Scalia, and Magda DeSimone join the 2025 Board of the Catholic Institute of the Food Industry, Inc. We also extend special recognition to Cathy Avery, who...

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About Us

Associated Supermarket Group provides retail solutions to independently owned grocery stores in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, providing distribution, marketing, merchandising, promotional services, and store financing. A relationship with ASG allows independently owned and operated stores to take advantage of the economies of scale normally available only to larger supermarket chains. ASG’s supermarket banners include Associated, Associated Fresh, Compare, Compare Fresh, Met Foods, Met Fresh, Pioneer, and other independently named stores.

50+ Central Bill Vendors

60K+ SKUs Available

Competitive Financing

275+ Stores

70+ Years in the Market

Serving 8 States

80% of Stores in the NY Metro

$2.5B Retail Sales Network

370+ Avenue A Products

1,000+ International Products

Leadership Team

ASG’s experienced leadership team brings deep expertise across operations, merchandising, marketing, technology, and advocacy. Their diverse backgrounds drive a sharp understanding of market dynamics, empower family businesses, and foster entrepreneurial success.

Joe Garcia

Joe Garcia

Co-CEO & Co-President

Zulema Wiscovitch

Zulema Wiscovitch

Co-CEO & Co-President

Pema Tshering

Pema Tshering

Chief Financial Officer

Erin Tregarthen

Erin Tregarthen

General Counsel

Jonathan D'Onofrio

Jonathan D'Onofrio

Executive Vice President of Operations

Ken Scher

Ken Scher

SVP of Business Development

Michelle Mendoza

Michelle Mendoza

VP of Marketing & Customer Experience

Francisco Nieves

Francisco Nieves

VP of Sales

Ladwina Isaac

Ladwina Isaac

VP of Information Technology

Magda DeSimone

Magda DeSimone

VP of Retail Technology

Why Join ASG?

ASG gives independent supermarkets the scale, resources, and flexibility of larger chains while preserving their independence with flexibility and freedom to meet their individual consumer and store needs. Whether opening new locations or upgrading existing stores, ASG delivers tailored services and technology for lasting success.

Experience exceptional customer service and retail solutions.

Access our powerful partners through central bill, and C&S Wholesale.

Explore our full business services: favorable financing, five ad plans, and Insider Deals.

Modernize your store with our technology: digital signs, Instacart, and loyalty programs.

Plan your next venture with our data-driven retail services team; new store setups, resets, and layouts.

Connect with your customers through our marketing and digital advertising services.

Join our network

Our Supermarket Network

$2.5B

Retail Sales Network

275+

Stores

Associated Supermarket Group (ASG) was founded in 1939 as Queens Food Dealers to support small, independent grocers. In 1954, the organization became Associated Food Stores, marking the start of its expansion. By 1987, the Compare Foods supermarket banner was added, further strengthening its presence in the industry.

In 2012, AUA Private Equity acquired Associated Food Stores, and by 2014, the company expanded its portfolio with the addition of Met Food and Pioneer supermarket banners. In 2015, ASG officially rebranded as Associated Supermarket Group (ASG), ushering in a new era of innovation. The company introduced its Avenue A private label in 2017 and launched the ASG Supermarket Academy in 2019 to support the growth of independent grocers.

In December 2020, ASG was acquired by its senior management team, Joe Garcia and Zulema Wiscovitch, further strengthening its commitment to independent supermarkets and expanding its services. Today, ASG proudly serves supermarkets across the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions, providing the resources and expertise to help independent grocers compete and thrive in an ever-evolving market.

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Discover Avenue A

Avenue A is ASG’s exclusive private label brand, crafted to reflect the vibrant diversity of the neighborhoods we serve.

Offering over 250 products — from pantry staples and frozen foods to household essentials — Avenue A delivers national brand quality at a value price.

Each item embodies the spirit of our communities, providing customers with trusted, affordable choices that resonate with their tastes and traditions.

Available at independent supermarkets throughout the ASG network, Avenue A brings the essence of local flavor to every aisle. Avenue A, your road to savings and quality.

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