Ingles Markets (NASDAQ: IMKTA) released an investor presentation ahead of its April 30, 2026 annual shareholders meeting, urging investors to vote for the company's two director candidates rather than a nominee backed by Summer Road, an investment firm controlled by David Sackler.

The North Carolina-based grocery chain is recommending shareholders vote for Rebekah Lowe and Dwight Jacobs on its white proxy card. Lowe brings 25 years of experience in customer-focused operations, while Jacobs has C-suite and board experience in operations, supply chain, and real estate.

Ingles opposes the election of Rory Held, who is backed by Summer Road, the family investment office for members of the Sackler family. The company states that Summer Road rejected multiple proposals to collaborate on identifying an independent director candidate unaffiliated with the Sacklers.

The grocery retailer operates 197 supermarkets across six southeastern states and is headquartered in Asheville, North Carolina. Three stores remain temporarily closed due to Hurricane Helene damage but are expected to reopen in 2026.

Ingles cited concerns about potential customer boycotts and brand damage from association with the Sackler family, which owned Purdue Pharma. The company argues that its strategy of owned real estate, vertically integrated operations, and community relationships has delivered strong shareholder returns compared to industry benchmarks.

The presentation highlights the company's 60-year market presence, owned real estate portfolio, and recent improvements in first-quarter fiscal results. Ingles also operates neighborhood shopping centers and a dairy facility that supplies its stores and outside customers.

Shareholders can access proxy materials through the SEC website or the company's investor relations page. The company has engaged MacKenzie Partners as its proxy solicitor for the contested election.