A Message from IGA CEO John Ross on Aggregated Data

In the above video, IGA CEO John Ross asks IGA retailers who use AppCard to opt-in to sharing their aggregated T-log data. Prefer to read? The full transcript is below.

Today, I want to talk to you about data — specifically, about sharing data. I’ve got a quick request for you at the end, but don’t worry, it’ll be brief.

In our world, there are essentially two buckets of money that brands use to invest in our industry. One is trade spending, which we know how to access through our wholesale partners. The other is national funding, which has historically gone to the largest national retailers.

At IGA, we’ve been on a mission for the past eight years to ensure that independents don’t miss out. We represent one-third of the U.S. grocery industry, so it only makes sense that one-third of the national media investment should come our way too. That’s only fair.

But to make that happen, we need to make a promise to manufacturers: that we’ll operate like a national chain. That means being easy to work with, setting up offers smoothly, and — critically — sharing results so brands can see whether independents are a smart place to invest.

When we do this well, more money flows in. Shoppers get better deals. Everyone wins.

To keep that momentum going, we need your T-Log data.

Now, you know IGA. We operate as a not-for-profit. We’re the most trusted link in the value chain. We don’t sell your data — we never will. We don’t expose it. We aggregate it, anonymously, across independents, and we share it in a way that demonstrates to brands they get a better return investing with us than with Walmart or Target.

And it’s true — retailers in our network have seen over an 18% sales lift, with one of the highest ROIs of any media investment brands can make. We’re a great buy in the ecosystem.

But again — we need data to prove it.

Many of you are already working with us in a variety of ways — through training, digital programs, or our national digital ad. No matter how you engage, we want to send you more offers and help get your shoppers more deals.

So here’s my ask: Please, share your T-Log data with us.

It’s easy. We have a simple system to make it happen. Our team will walk you through it. It won’t cost you anything. And if at any point you feel unsure, you can opt out — no questions asked.

We will always work to earn your trust, and we will always advocate on behalf of you and your shoppers.

If we do this together, I promise you — it’s only going to get better and better.

Thank you for listening. I hope you’ll join us.

Ready to opt-in? Simply fill out this brief form and you're all set.