Associated Wholesale Grocers Expanded Italian Food Line

The supplier has added new pasta and sauce varieties to its Superior Selections by Best Choice brand.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Italian Food

Bold vector editorial illustration of raw pasta shapes and plain glass jars on a wooden surface, representing an Italian food product rollout. — Associated Wholesale Grocers has expanded its Imported from Italy product line, adding new pasta and sauce varieties to its Superior Selections brand to meet consumer demand. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Associated Wholesale Grocers has expanded its Imported from Italy product line to meet consumer demand for authentic regional ingredients. The rollout includes new pasta and sauce options sourced and bottled in southern Italy.

Why it matters

The move aligns with the rising popularity of Italian cuisine, which ranks among the three fastest-growing food trends globally. Retailers are responding to data showing that 60% of shoppers now prioritize authentic regional products over generic store brands.

The expansion introduces five pasta varieties and eight sauce flavors, adding to a partnership with an Italian family farm that has lasted nearly 20 years. These products will reach shoppers across 1,100 member companies in 33 states.

The players

Associated Wholesale Grocers

This cooperative serves as a major supplier to 1,100 member companies and 3,500 supermarket locations across the United States.

The details

The new pasta selection includes bucatini, medium shells, rigatoni, trottole, and fusilli bucati, while the sauce lineup features options like cacio e pepe, pesto, and various alfredo styles. To support the launch, member retailers will utilize in-store signage, digital coupons, and online content.

The partnership with the Italian family farm began 20 years ago.
Olive oil products are rolling out to member stores as of October 2026.
The full range of pasta and sauces will launch in fall 2026.

Culture Shift

This product expansion follows the industry pattern of capitalizing on the rapid growth of Italian cuisine as a top global food trend. It reflects a wider move by cooperatives to capture the premium segment as shoppers shift away from legacy generic private-label goods.

Shoppers can expect to find these new authentic Italian imports arriving on shelves at local member grocery stores throughout the fall. The inclusion of digital coupons and content means customers should check their local retailer apps for potential savings on these new items.

The takeaway

Retailers are increasingly pivoting toward premium regional imports to retain customers who are seeking higher-quality pantry staples. Consumers looking for authentic international flavors should watch for in-store signage highlighting these new specialty items.