By: David Fikes, Vice President of Communications and Consumer/Community Affairs, Food Marketing Institute
Customer service is at the heart of the food retail industry. In a time when the industry is experiencing an unprecedented pace of change, it’s important to remember our roots and showcase those in our industry who exemplify our customer service values every day.
During FMI Connect, we honored two of our Executive Leadership Award winners for their outstanding commitment to the food retail industry. Maureen Murphy, manager of consumer trends, nutrition and lifestyles for Price Chopper Supermarkets / Market 32, received the Esther Peterson Award for her exceptional consumer service. The Glen P. Woodard, Jr., Award for public affairs was awarded to Jack Brown, executive chairman of Stater Bros. Markets, for his commitment to the industry and the nation.
In addition to these awards, which are two of the highest food retail industry honors , FMI Connect highlighted exceptional store managers in the grocery industry for their success spurring sales growth, providing great customer service and playing an integral role in their communities. Out of 10 finalists who traveled to Chicago for FMI Connect, the following store managers were awarded the 2016 Store Manager Award.
Category A: (1-49 Stores)
Alberto Ayala, Northgate Gonzalez Market, Los Angeles, California
Category B: (50-199 Stores)
Piotr Soja, Big Y Foods, Inc., Northampton, Massachusetts
Category C: (200+ Stores)
Josh Birmingham, The Kroger Co. Columbus Division, Holland, Ohio
Category D: (International)
Ted Pigeon, Overwaitea Food Group, Victoria, BC, Canada
2016 Store Manager People's Pick Award
Jon Wieser, Festival Foods, Green Bay, Wisconsin
See how these exceptional food retailers were recognized at FMI Connect and what industry experts have to say about doing business now and in the future by watching FMI Connect TV on YouTube.
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