For their commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service and customer satisfaction, 15 produce managers have been recognized by the 2023 Retail Produce Managers Award Program from the International Fresh Produce Association.
“The produce industry’s front line – produce managers – make a difference every day for their companies and their communities. I’m thrilled to name 15 produce managers who stand out from the crowd,” said Joe Watson, IFPA vice president of retail, foodservice and wholesale membership.
“IFPA is committed to advancing member prosperity and a healthier world,” he said. “Awards that recognize the best of the best not only reward stellar performers, they also inspire others to up their game. We are especially thankful to the award sponsor, Dole, which is equally committed to recognizing excellence.”
These winners represent the produce industry to the consumer and work to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables for their banners and their communities.
Left to right: Patrick O'Brien of Albertsons Companies, Denver, Colorado; Brandon Hash of Brookshire Grocery Co., Willow Park, Texas; Laura J. Marquand of Haggen Northwest Fresh, Ferndale, Washington
Left to right: Jenn Lane of Harris Teeter, Cornelius, North Carolina; Greg Kimmel of Hy-Vee, Inc., Davenport, Iowa; Skylar Leonard of K-VA-T Food Stores, Inc./dba Food City, Piney Flats, Tennessee
Left to right: Darron Hyatt of Lowes Foods, Southern Pines, North Carolina; Timothy F. Baker of Orcas Island Market, Eastsound, Washington; Gary Lasalle of Price Chopper/Market 32 Supermarket, New Hartford, New York
Left to right: Olin Williams of Corner Market, Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Josh Alsberg of Rubinette Produce Market, Portland, Oregon; Mark Bentley of Southeastern Grocers, St. Johns, Florida
Left to right: Mitch Harris of Strack & Van Til, Valparaiso, Indiana; Breanna Norris of The GIANT Company, Doylestown, Pennsylvania; Christopher DeMarie of Tops Markets, Dunkirk, New York
The winners receive:
- A recognition visit with each winner at their store.
- A trip to IFPA's Global Produce & Floral Show, October 19-21 in Anaheim, California where they will be recognized at a special dinner.
- Additional recognition on social, trade and their local media.
The IFPA awards program solicits nominations from anyone in the industry who knows a produce manager who is raising the bar on performance. Find more information here.
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
ASempowski@freshproduce.com
https://www.freshproduce.com/