NGA Show 2025 Recap: What’s Next for Grocery Retailers?

The NGA Show 2025 brought together grocery leaders, retailers, and innovators to discuss the future of the industry. Burq was present as a sponsor, where our team engaged with attendees and met with industry leaders to share our solution and gain deeper insights into the challenges grocers face in last-mile delivery.

After conversations on the expo floor, here are the biggest takeaways shaping the industry right now.

1. Owning the Customer Experience Is More Important Than Ever

Grocers are looking for more control over their customer experience, ensuring that every touchpoint—from in-store to online ordering to last-mile delivery—feels seamless and consistent with their brand.

• Key Insight: Retailers are prioritizing customization and branding in their technology solutions to create meaningful connections with shoppers.
• Why It Matters: Standardized solutions don’t cut it anymore—flexibility and brand consistency are key.

2. Profitability Remains a Top Priority

Sessions and conversations alike reinforced that grocers are laser-focused on profitability amid shifting consumer behavior, supply chain challenges, and inflation concerns.

• Key Insight: Grocery leaders are looking for smarter, data-driven ways to optimize pricing, reduce waste, and streamline operations.
• Why It Matters: Technology solutions must not just be innovative but practical and ROI-driven to help grocers maintain strong margins.

3. Technology Should Work for Grocers—Not the Other Way Around

From AI-powered pricing strategies to digital loyalty programs, technology is playing a bigger role in grocery than ever before. But one theme was clear: tech for tech’s sake isn’t enough.

• Key Insight: Grocers want intuitive, well-designed solutions that integrate seamlessly with their existing systems.
• Why It Matters: The focus should be on real-world application—if technology doesn’t make operations easier, faster, or more efficient, grocers aren’t interested.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

NGA Show 2025 made one thing clear—the grocery industry is evolving fast, and retailers are looking for partners who understand their challenges and can build solutions that truly support them.

At Burq, we’re committed to working with grocers to help them scale, improve efficiency, and create the best possible experience for their customers. If you want to learn more about how we can help, let’s connect!