Supermercados Selectos Wins Award for 45 Years of Excellence

For three days, the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico, became the venue for the summit event of the food industry in the Caribbean – the annual MIDA conference and food show. Attendees networked, participated in workshops, and recognized outstanding businesses in retail grocery.

One of the Independent Grocers Alliance's newest members earned recognition among the awards presented. Supermercados Selectos won an award for their 45 years in business, their growth, and for setting an exemplary role to others in the industry.

“Selectos has been a great example of local businesses successfully competing with national and international retailers, using a co-op-like model where independent owners join for purchasing and marketing, which provides an important competitive edge,” said Vivian Maldonado, director of communications at MIDA.

The award was received by Selectos President of the Board of Directors Ariel Torres and Selectos Executive Director Mayreg Rodriguez, along with Selectos associates. Also shown: MIDA President Joeyleen Quiñones (far left) and MIDA Executive Vice-President Manuel Reyes Alfonso (far right).

Created in 1978 by a group of independent merchants who wanted to provide better service to their customers, Supermercados Selectos has come a long way. The first stores used a basement as a warehouse and bought in groups, advertised specials, and shared experiences to compete with large supermarket chains. As more merchants joined, the store moved to Carolina and later established a larger facility in the Royal Industrial Park in Cataño.

Supermercados Selectos is unique in that they operate as a chain, but all 39 of their stores are independently owned. This model allows them to combine the benefits of a larger chain, such as increased buying power, with the personalized service and attention to detail for which independent grocers are known.

Looking to the future, Selectos is currently expanding its central warehouse to 120,000 square feet.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Selectos Supermercados on their remarkable achievement of 45 years in business,” said IGA CEO John Ross. “It is truly an exceptional milestone that highlights their steadfast dedication to excellence and focus on serving their customers. This well-deserved recognition from MIDA is a testament to their hard work, vision, and the outstanding service they provide to their communities."