By: Cynthia Brazzel, Senior Director, Member Relations and Advocacy (Western Region), FMI 

Holiday To DoThe holiday to-do list has snuck up on me and there is less than a month to get all the shopping, decorating cookie-making, wrapping and holiday traditions accomplished. With all that going on, we hate to add one more to-do to the list, so we’re not. But we are giving you a heads up! 

In just four weeks, we’ll open nominations for FMI’s 21st Store Manager Awards—an event that honors and celebrates the incredible contributions of grocery store managers across the industry.   

Why It Matters 

Even as technology and AI bring new efficiencies to the grocery business, nothing replaces the human touch. At the heart of every successful store is a leader who inspires, motivates, and drives innovation. Store managers do more than oversee operations—they build teams, create memorable shopping experiences, and connect with communities. Their leadership transforms grocery stores into essential hubs of service and innovation. FMI and The Coca-Cola Company proudly celebrate these exceptional individuals, recognizing that great leadership fuels great business. 

The Big Picture 

Nominate one or more store managers who embody leadership, mentorship, and community engagement. While metrics are essential, the Store Manager Awards highlight the intangible qualities—focus, discipline, inspiration, and risk-taking—that drive success. These awards reveal the story behind the numbers: the people who make it happen. 

Take Action 

Nominations open January 7, 2025, and run through February 28, 2025. Start thinking about the exceptional leaders in your stores and prepare to recognize their impact. 

Celebrate the leaders shaping the future of grocery—one store, one community, and one team at a time. 

Store Manager Award Details