Honor highlights ongoing store reinvestment, private label growth, and nearly a century of community-driven grocery leadership in Connecticut

(PRUnderground) March 23rd, 2026

Cingari Family Markets, the family-owned and operated Connecticut-based supermarket company, has been recognized as an Exceptional Independent Grocer by The Shelby Report for the second consecutive year. This prestigious award honors independent U.S. grocery operators who lead with innovation, community focus, and resilience.

Cingari Family Markets owns 10 ShopRite supermarkets and two specialty Cingari Grade A Markets in southwestern Connecticut. This award recognizes the company’s commitment to the Connecticut communities it’s been actively serving since 1929.

Over the past year, the family-run business has been working steadily to renovate its store locations. The renovations include new and expanded in-store offerings, contemporary decor, and new eco-friendly display cases and lighting. In addition, Cingari Family Markets continues to expand its popular private-label product lines.

The Shelby Report presented the award to Cingari Family Markets at the 2026 National Grocers Association (NGA) show in Las Vegas on February 2nd.

“We are honored to be recognized as an Exceptional Independent Grocer,” said Thomas Cingari Sr., president and CEO of Cingari Family Markets. “This recognition belongs to our incredible employees. Their pride and dedication to their work every day make it possible for us to deliver excellent service and quality to our customers. They’re the heart of our store, and I couldn’t be more proud.”

Cingari Family Markets has built a reputation for blending tradition with innovation and offering a shopping experience that reflects the needs of the local community. Through the Cingari Family Foundation, the company has donated over $5 million. Cingari Family Markets is a member of the retailer-owned supermarket cooperative Wakefern Food Corp., which is made up of many family-owned businesses.

Family-owned and operated for over 90 years, Cingari Family Markets continues to look ahead and remains committed to sustainability and a positive customer experience, while investing in its employees so they can continue to deliver on their promise of quality and care.

About Cingari Family Markets

Founded in 1929, Cingari Family Markets is a renowned name in quality grocering, embodying a rich family legacy that has flourished over four generations. Based in Stamford, Connecticut the company has established itself as a pillar in the community, known for an exceptional selection of fresh, locally sourced, and homemade prepared meals, along with a meticulously curated range of pantry items. Cingari Family Markets’ commitment extends beyond providing premium quality food to creating genuine connections with customers and contributing positively to the community. Cingari Family Markets owns and operates 10 ShopRite locations in CT as well as two Grade A Markets in Stamford, CT.

The business has been recognized as a 2024 Top Connecticut Workplace by Hearst CT Media.

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