IGA partners on Seattle food desert initiative

[Viable Food News Desk]

Publisher: Supermarket News
Published: September 21, 2026
Source: Read at Supermarket News
Category: Food Access

The Independent Grocers Alliance is partnering with Seattle on a project to support local grocery stores in underserved areas. IGA will conduct market analyses in eight neighborhoods and provide a year of technical assistance to 10 independently owned grocery stores, paired with municipal funding for essential improvements. The initiative will also support security and facility upgrades for selected supermarkets, while the Seattle Office of Economic Development continues work with Lam's Seafood Asian Market as it prepares to open its third location in a storefront vacant for eight years. Mayor Katie Wilson approved $1.7 million for the grocery support initiatives.

Why this matters: Independent grocers in underserved Seattle neighborhoods may gain technical help, funding for facility improvements, and access to security grants. The market analyses could also help communities assess what types of grocery stores fit local needs and existing food access.

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