Annual Gala
XIV NSA Annual Gala
The Annual Gala is the premier event of the National Supermarket Association Florida Chapter, bringing together NSA members, industry leaders, corporate partners, elected officials, and community stakeholders. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with supermarket owners and key decision-makers who continue to shape the independent supermarket industry throughout Florida and beyond.
Participation in this event directly supports the mission of the NSA Florida Scholarship Foundation, helping deserving students pursue higher education and achieve their academic and professional goals.
The NSA Florida Chapter takes great pride in its commitment to social responsibility and community impact. Through the NSA Scholarship Foundation, more than $4 million has been awarded in scholarships nationwide to students from the communities served by our member supermarkets. In Florida alone, the Foundation has now surpassed $1 million in scholarships awarded, supporting hundreds of students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college.
By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our communities and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
NSA Florida's 12th Annual Gala.
The National Supermarket Association Florida Chapter proudly hosted its XIV Annual Gala, Cirque Fantasy, on November 22, 2025, bringing together supermarket owners, industry leaders, suppliers, community partners, and sponsors for an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration.
As one of the association’s premier annual events, the Gala serves as an important platform to strengthen relationships across the independent supermarket industry while highlighting the achievements and contributions of those who help drive its success.
During the evening, NSA Florida recognized Badia Spices as Company of the Year and Vladimir Báez as Member of the Year for their outstanding leadership, commitment, and support of the industry.
The event also celebrated the ongoing impact of the NSA Florida Scholarship Foundation, which awarded $125,000 in scholarships during 2025, reinforcing the association’s commitment to education, community development, and future generations.
The NSA Florida Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to its sponsors, members, and partners whose continued support makes this event, and the association’s mission possible. Through collaboration and shared purpose, the independent supermarket industry continues to make a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.
Member of the Year:
Every year the National Supermarket Association recognizes one of its members with the NSA Member of the Year Award. This award is given to the member who best illustrates great attendance, community involvement, and participation on the NSA events’ committees.
For 2024 the special acknowledgment is to Carlos Hernandez as Member of the year.
Company of the Year:
Since its inception the NSA has partnered up with countless companies who support the organization’s initiatives and programs. Every year an award goes to the company that best represents the NSA’s goals and agendas that also gives back our communities. Congratulations to Lipari Foods as this year’s recipient Company of the Year Award!