(Versailles, IN) – Versailles IGA has been named a 2026 IGA USA Centennial Retailer of the Year, honoring the independent grocery store for its strong community leadership, dedication to employees and continued investment in improving the local shopping experience.
Presented by the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA), the Retailer of the Year award recognizes independently owned grocery retailers nominated by their Licensed Distribution Centers and selected for excellence in operations, customer service, innovation and community engagement.
For Kelly Gutzwiller, co-owner of Versailles IGA, the recognition reflects the store’s mission to serve its rural community while building on the legacy started by her family when the store opened in 2014.
“This recognition means so much to our family and our team,” Gutzwiller said. “Versailles IGA was built because our community needed a local grocery store, and everything we do today is still focused on serving the people who rely on us every day.”
The store was originally opened by Gutzwiller’s parents Robert and Dotty Wood along with her brother Daren Wood to ensure Versailles residents had access to a local grocery store. After Robert’s passing in 2020, Gutzwiller joined the business in 2022 to help continue the family’s mission and strengthen the store’s future.
Since then, the store has undergone significant revitalization, with profits consistently reinvested into upgrades and improvements designed to enhance the customer experience. Recent investments include a new point-of-sale system, upgraded register equipment, new grocery carts, a repaved parking lot and expanded technology such as digital coupons and Instacart delivery services.
“When we came into the business, our focus was simple: reinvest in the store, support our employees, and earn the trust of our community,” Gutzwiller said. “We believe if you take care of people and operate with integrity, the business will follow.”
The store’s leadership philosophy is rooted in respect and service. Employees are encouraged to connect with customers, many of whom rely on the store not just for groceries but also for social interaction and support in a small-town environment.
“Sometimes a grocery store is the only place someone will see a friendly face all day,” Gutzwiller said. “We want every person who walks through our doors to feel welcome and valued.”
Under Gutzwiller’s leadership, Versailles IGA has also strengthened operational performance and store growth, with year-over-year increases in purchases and improvements across multiple departments. The store continues to invest in future improvements, including refrigeration upgrades and new store features designed to improve efficiency and customer convenience.
The store’s identity is also shaped by its values-driven leadership and strong sense of purpose, which guide decisions about how the business operates and how it serves the community.
“We see this store as more than a business—it’s a mission,” Gutzwiller said. “Our goal is to serve our community with integrity, treat people with respect, and create a place where customers and employees feel cared for.”
As part of the Centennial recognition, IGA President and CEO John Ross will visit Versailles IGA on Monday, March 16 at 12 p.m. to celebrate the achievement with store leadership, employees and community members.
(Provided Information)
