A local supermarket chain that has dozens of stores across the South, two located on the island, has named named one of the best independent grocers of 2024. 

Rouses Market is a recipient of Progressive Grocer's 2024 Outstanding Independent Award, the company announced. Progressive Grocer decides recipients based on their ability to connect and bond with a neighborhood, while meeting the various needs of residents. 

The Grocer's Group stated: Although it’s been around for 64 years, Rouses Markets consistently pioneers innovations as it continues to open new locations and renovate existing stores. It’s simultaneously managed to remain in touch with its roots: In 2023, when Rouses built a new store in Houma, La., a stone’s throw from the site of the family’s first grocery store, which opened in 1960, the company created a drive-thru Houma da Chicken concept allowing customers to pick up the chain’s famous fried chicken without ever entering the store.

In addition to chicken, Rouses offers a range of freshly prepared homestyle dishes reflecting local and regional tastes, including such top sellers as gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and fried catfish. Not only does it sell more Gulf shrimp and boil more Louisiana crawfish than any other retailer in the region, but also it also makes a whopping 600,000 king cakes during Mardi Gras, more than 10,000 of which are shipped nationwide.

Alongside its dedication to distinctive local food and supporting area food businesses, Rouses fights hunger through a food bank assistance program. Community involvement also includes sponsorships of local schools, sports teams — among them the New Orleans Saints — and festivals across the Gulf Coast.

Rouses has been an integral part of the community since building their stores in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

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