Advocate For Independents In D.C. This May

Join other independent retailers, wholesalers, and state association executives in Washington, D.C. to advocate for a level playing field in the grocery industry by calling for an efficient and sufficient SNAP program, legislation to reform credit card routing to lower swipe fees, and more.

During the event, which is organized by the National Grocers Association (NGA), you will meet with your representatives on Capitol Hill, discuss the pressing issues that are affecting your business, and help NGA to positively impact the policymaking process.

While you're in D.C., NGA’s Government Relations team:

• Schedules your Congressional meetings and pairs you with other NGA members and experienced advocates
• Prepares you with briefing materials, meeting tips, and all logistical information needed for a successful day on Capitol Hill
• Provides opportunities outside of your scheduled meetings to interact with lawmakers and their staffs at receptions and fundraisers

Travel & Hotel Accommodations

The Washington Marriott Capitol Hill
175 L St. NE
Washington, DC 20002

Room Rate: $329.00 Single/Double
Housing Deadline: April 17, 2025
Check hotel availability here.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is the closest airport to our event. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) are additional options that require a little over an hour travel time to get into D.C.

*Please Note: Attendees should plan to participate in meeting on Capitol Hill until 4:00 p.m. Please plan your flights and travel accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you wear when meeting on Capitol Hill?

On May 21, we recommend business casual. For your Hill meetings on May 22, we recommend business professional attire. Please wear shoes that you can walk easily in. They don’t call it shoe leather lobbying for nothing. You will be doing a lot of walking while you’re on the Hill.

What meals will be provided during the event?

On May 21, NGA will provide lunch during our welcome and heavy hors d'oeuvres at the evening networking reception. On May 22, NGA will provide breakfast during the morning briefing and light hors d'oeurves at the evening congressional reception.

You will be responsible for lunch on May 22 between your meetings on Capitol Hill. On the House side of the Capitol, NGA recommends the Longworth Cafeteria (basement), Cannon Carry Out (1st floor) and the Rayburn House Cafeteria (ground floor). On the Senate side, you can visit the Dirksen Cafeteria (basement), Cups (Russell basement), or the Hart Senate Chef (Dirksen/Hart ground floor corridor).

Where do you keep your suitcase if you have a Wednesday evening flight?

NGA strongly advises against bringing your suitcase to Capitol Hill and recommend leaving them with your hotel.

*Note: Attendees should plan to participate in meeting on Capitol Hill until 4:00 p.m. Please plan your flights and travel accordingly.

What is the recommended approach for participating in this event's social media presence?

NGA encourages the use of social media during the Fly-In for Fair Competition. NGA has developed a social media strategy for the event that will help amplify the stories attendees tell in their meetings. Please share NGA’s social media guide with your communications team in advance of the fly-in.

How will we arrive at Capitol Hill on May 22?

Two buses to Capitol Hill will depart from the Washington Marriott Capitol Hill immediately at 8:30 a.m. on May 22 outside of the front entrance. Busses cannot legally drive up Capitol Hill, so they will drop attendees off near the Ulysees S. Grant statue at the base of the Capitol facing the National Mall.

Sponsor the Fly-In

Are you a vendor looking to sponsor the Fly-In? Sponsorship offers the opportunity to demonstrate commitment to retailers and take the position as a partner-for-change. Click here for sponsorship details.

If you have any questions, please reach out to NGA's Government Relations team atgr@nationalgrocers.org.