Award recognizes private label leaders driving innovation, value, and shopper-focused growth
Norwalk, CT (PRUnderground) July 1st, 2026
Cingari Family Markets, the family-owned and operated Connecticut-based supermarket company that operates 10 ShopRite stores and two Grade A Markets, today announced that brand supervisor, John Cingari, has been named a 2026 Store Brands Rising Star by Store Brands. The honor recognizes emerging private label leaders shaping the future of store brands through innovation, collaboration, and strategic thinking, and highlights professionals elevating product quality, strengthening brand identity, and developing fresh ideas that resonate with today’s consumers.
At Cingari Family Markets, John has played a key role in the company’s rebranding and private label expansion, helping unify the family business’s long legacy in the community with a more modern, fresh-first identity. He has been instrumental in the growth of the family’s “Cingari Family Markets” private label products and fresh prepared foods, including vertically integrated products such as the family’s signature marinara sauce, as well as olive oils, spices, scratch baked breads, and chef prepared entrees and sides.
“John’s recognition is a reflection of the entire Cingari Family Markets team and the care that goes into every part of our private label program,” said Tom Cingari, Sr., CEO of Cingari Family Markets. “This achievement belongs to the designers who gave the brand its look, the recipe makers who brought our family flavors to life, the merchants and store teams who execute every day, and everyone across our organization who helped turn an idea into a family of products our customers can trust and enjoy.”
The award comes as Cingari Family Markets continues to invest in its identity as a Connecticut-based, family-run grocer serving communities across southwestern Connecticut. The company’s rebranding effort and private label strategy focus on what makes the grocer different while also emphasizing the company’s local roots and commitment to quality and authenticity. This approach has helped the business better connect with shoppers seeking value, convenience and products made with a personal touch.
John’s nomination by Store Brands reflects both his leadership in the business, as well as his deep commitment to community. Through the Cingari Family Foundation and related initiatives, the family business has contributed millions to local organizations, with a strong focus on food security and charitable giving throughout the region.
“Being named a Rising Star is deeply meaningful, but I see it as recognition of a collective effort,” John Cingari said. “Our family, our teammates, our designers, our recipe developers, and our store associates all played a part in building something special. We set out to create products that feel authentic to our history and relevant to today’s customer, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
About Cingari Family Markets
Founded in 1929, Cingari Family Markets is a renowned name in quality grocering, embodying a rich family legacy that has flourished over four generations. Based in Stamford, Connecticut the company has established itself as a pillar in the community, known for an exceptional selection of fresh, locally sourced, and homemade prepared meals, along with a meticulously curated range of pantry items. Cingari Family Markets’ commitment extends beyond providing premium quality food to creating genuine connections with customers and contributing positively to the community. Cingari Family Markets owns and operates 10 ShopRite locations in CT as well as two Grade A Markets in Stamford, CT.
The business has been recognized as a 2024 Top Connecticut Workplace by Hearst CT Media.
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Original Press Release.
