SPRING MILLS — Burkholder’s Country Market has been named a 2026 IGA USA Centennial Retailer of the Year, an honor recognizing independent grocery retailers who demonstrate excellence in operations, innovation, customer service and community leadership.
As part of the Centennial recognition, IGA President and CEO John Ross visited Burkholder’s Country Market on March 5 to celebrate the achievement with store leadership, employees and community members.
The award, presented by the Independent Grocers Alliance, celebrates standout retailers nominated by their Licensed Distribution Centers and selected for operational excellence, innovative merchandising and branding, employee development, community engagement and strong partnership within the IGA network.
Burkholder’s Country Market was selected for its high standards in store operations, its investment in employee growth, its commitment to sourcing local products and its deep involvement in the Spring Mills community.
“Being named a Centennial Retailer of the Year is a tremendous honor for our entire team,” said Russ Burkholder, owner of Burkholder’s Country Market. “From day one, our goal has been simple — serve our neighbors with excellence and integrity. This recognition belongs to every employee who works hard to make this store a place our community is proud of.”
Operational excellence is evident throughout the store, from its clean and well-maintained parking lot to its solar carport, which reflects environmental responsibility while improving the customer experience.
Inside, high standards for cleanliness and service ensure a welcoming and efficient shopping environment.
“Our philosophy is that if the customer isn’t happy, the job isn’t done,” Burkholder said. “We hire friendly people, we demand great service and we respond quickly when our customers need us. That personal connection is what independent grocery is all about.”
Burkholder’s commitment to employee development also distinguished the store in the selection process. The market prioritizes promoting from within, hiring young employees and creating meaningful opportunities for advancement into leadership roles.
“When you invest in people, they invest back into the business and the community,” Burkholder said. “We believe in creating a pathway for growth so our team members can build careers here, not just hold jobs.”
A defining feature of Burkholder’s brand is its clear and consistent message: “We buy Local.” The store sources a significant portion of its produce and grocery assortment from local farmers and vendors, supporting the regional economy while delivering fresh products to customers.
“Buying local isn’t a slogan for us — it’s how we operate,” Burkholder said. “Local farmers, local vendors, local employees serving local families. That connection strengthens our entire community.”
Community involvement remains central to the store’s mission. Burkholder’s supports four local volunteer fire departments through fundraisers and events, participates in hunger relief initiatives, hosts Customer Appreciation Days and honors local veterans with a free meal on Veterans Day. The store also supports area food banks and youth sports programs.
“Being a community partner is just as important as running a successful store,” Burkholder said. “We are proud to stand alongside the organizations and families that make this area special.”
