Fourth Generation Independent Grocer Testifies Before House Small Business Committee on Tax Reform

July 25, 2018

Arlington, VA -Wettlin Treppendahl, fourth generation grocer and single store operator of Woodville, MS-based Treppendahl’s Super Foods, today testified on behalf of the National Grocers Association before the House Small Business Committee in a hearing titled “The Tax Law’s Impact on Main Street.” The hearing examined how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has affected small businesses and the outlook of small business owners.

Mr. Treppendahl shared how the new tax reform law has increased his confidence in making important business decisions, such as reinvesting in his store. “The new tax law has had an immediate impact on my business’ ability to invest in our store and community. We have upgraded and replaced 12 doors in the frozen foods section, providing work for our local refrigeration company and allowing us to expand our selection of frozen foods and save on energy costs,” said Treppendahl.

In his testimony, Mr. Treppendahl applauded the passage of tax reform, and urged Congress to advance reforms that create a more level playing field and long-term certainty, such as making the pass-through deduction permanent and establishing rate parity between S corporations and C corporations, as well as making the estate tax exemption permanent.

“The 20 percent pass-through deduction is also positive for my business, as we are organized as an S corporation, but long-term certainty for this provision and rate parity with C corporations is desired for the future,” Treppendahl said in his written testimony.

“Independent supermarket operators, such as Wettlin, are the cornerstone of their communities. We know tax reform can help these entrepreneurs to continue to invest in their companies, employees, and communities,” said Greg Ferrara, NGA executive vice president of advocacy, public relations and member services.

Wettlin Treppendahl’s full written testimony can be view here.

Additional Media Resources:

• See more pictures from today’s hearing, click here.