How Small Businesses Are Helping Shoppers Save Big at Major Retailers
For savvy shoppers hunting for value without compromising on quality, a new wave of local products on big-box store shelves is reshaping the way America shops. The “Buy Local” movement is no longer just a farmer’s market weekend trend — it’s arriving in full force at mainstream retailers like Walmart and Fry’s Food Stores, thanks to growing partnerships with homegrown businesses.
These collaborations are not only driving consumer savings but are also redefining what “Made in America” looks like in modern retail.
A Produce Powerhouse with a Local Advantage
At the heart of this shift is a quiet revolution taking place in Arizona’s own backyard. Family-run farms like EverKrisp Vegetables, now in their 53rd harvest season, are proving that sourcing locally isn’t just about sustainability — it’s also a strategy for savings.
“Our costs drop dramatically when we cut out the extra freight and miles,” said EverKrisp’s Arizona Operations Manager, Etchart Fraser. “Those dollars really add up, especially in logistics. We’re able to deliver fresher produce for less.”
Each year, EverKrisp moves over 7 million pounds of green cabbage directly to Valley grocery stores. Because these crops are grown and shipped within state lines, they bypass many of the charges and tariffs associated with international imports. The result? A staple like cabbage, sold at a consistent 99 cents per pound at Fry’s, that’s both wallet-friendly and packed with freshness.
Local Farms, Global Impact
While EverKrisp also maintains farming operations in Mexico, the Arizona-grown line remains untouched by international tariffs. That gives them a competitive edge on shelves — and a compelling value proposition for shoppers trying to stretch every dollar.
“Most of what you see on our produce shelves is grown right here in Arizona,” said Dawn Baker, Fry’s food expert. “It’s not just about freshness — it’s long-term savings for the customer.”
Dog Food with a Purpose: Bundle x Joy Breaks Out
Beyond the produce aisle, another Arizona-based brand is making waves with a mission-driven product line that’s going national.
Meet Bundle x Joy, a Phoenix-based women-led startup focused on crafting gut-friendly, allergy-safe food for dogs. Founder and CEO Jessica Berger, often seen packing orders with her Great Dane Luna by her side, says the company’s mission is rooted in both science and empathy.
“Our products combine dry food, probiotics, and wet food into a convenient bundle — and all for under $18,” said Berger.
Bundle x Joy recently inked a distribution deal with Walmart, expanding its presence to over 500 stores nationwide. Yet, the brand maintains its strong Arizona roots, with in-state production helping it keep costs down and quality up.
“Local production lets us stay lean and pass the savings directly to our customers,” Berger added.
Walmart’s Roadmap to Supporting Small Businesses
Walmart’s support for U.S.-based entrepreneurs isn’t incidental — it’s strategic. Through its Road to Open Call initiative, Walmart invites small business owners to pitch American-made, shelf-ready products for distribution.
“This program is exclusively for U.S. vendors,” said Matt Carter, Store Manager at Walmart. “We want items that are grown, manufactured, or assembled here in the United States.”
The effort is paying off: over 60% of Walmart’s U.S. suppliers are small businesses, and two-thirds of its overall merchandise is sourced domestically.
In May, which marks Small Business Month, Walmart is spotlighting local brands, leading up to its major Open Call event in October at its headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Arizona-Made, Nationwide Reach
It’s not just fresh food and pet products grabbing shelf space. Other Arizona standouts include Kettle Heroes, a Tempe-based artisan popcorn company, and My Nana’s Tortilla Chips from Glendale. These products represent a growing appetite for regional flavors and trusted local brands — now being served at scale.
Economist Jim Rounds from Round Consulting Group notes that while the “Made in America” movement isn’t new, its momentum is stronger than ever — especially as consumers look to simplify supply chains and reduce risk.
“Big corporations are realizing the value in localizing portions of their supply chains,” Rounds said. “It reduces volatility, supports communities, and can often lead to better pricing models.”
However, he cautions that being “Made in America” doesn’t always mean every component is locally sourced. Some small businesses still rely on overseas raw materials, which may remain subject to tariffs and global market shifts.
The Bottom Line for Budget-Conscious Shoppers
As inflation and cost-of-living pressures remain high, many Arizona residents are choosing products that not only support the local economy but also make cents — literally.
“I’ll always lean toward the local,” said Phoenix resident Mary Meade, who was shopping with her pup Lily. “It feels good to know where your money is going — and it goes even further.”
Bill Lawson, another Phoenix local, echoed that sentiment: “Everybody’s tightening their budget. It’s a win-win when the fresher option also costs less.”
The Future of Smart Shopping? Hyper-Local, Nationally Available
With local produce in your grocery cart and homegrown pet food on big-box shelves, Arizona businesses are proving that shopping small doesn’t have to mean paying more. It’s a model that’s empowering entrepreneurs and smart shoppers alike — and it might just be the future of American retail.
Whether you’re picking up popcorn for movie night or cabbage for dinner, one thing is clear: the next time you shop at a big retailer, you might just be supporting a neighbor’s dream.
EXCERPT:
Arizona-made goods like fresh cabbage and dog food now fill shelves at Fry’s and Walmart, helping shoppers save while supporting local small businesses.
