Brad Franklin, produce manager for Tops Friendly Markets in Towanda, Pa. will receive the International Fresh Produce Association’s 2024 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Award. For a commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service and customer satisfaction, Franklin is one of only 20 produce managers nationwide being recognized by the with this high distinction, the company said in a news release.
“Brad is a seasoned produce manager who just continues to get better year after year. As the produce department continues to evolve into what the 2024 consumer wants, Brad has the ability to over-deliver,” said Jeff Cady, vice president of produce and floral for Northeast Shared Services, under the parent company Northeast Grocery Inc., which serves Tops and Price Chopper/Market 32.
“These prestigious awards are a shining example of IFPA’s commitment to grow prosperity for companies in the global fresh produce supply chain while creating a vibrant future for all,” said Joe Watson, IFPA vice president of retail, foodservice and wholesale. “Our recognition of the pivotal role produce managers play for their companies and the produce industry wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Robinson Fresh.”
The winners will be recognized at IFPA’s 2024 Global Produce and Floral Show, set for Oct. 17-19 in Atlanta, with five produce managers taking home the Grand Prize Winner award.
Franklin started with Penn Traffic, which was later acquired by Tops, in 1994.
As IFPA honors Franklin, the company said, Tops also spotlighted many of its outstanding produce managers within the company including:
- West Produce Manager of the Year, Dan Fisher, Liberty, Pa.
- Buffalo East, Ted Elliott, East Aurora, N.Y.
- Buffalo North, Ray Sherman, Medina, N.Y.
- Buffalo South, Aaron Brown, Dunkirk, N.Y.
- Buffalo Central, Darryl Gregoire, Williamsville, N.Y.
- East Produce Manager of the Year and IFPA award winner, Brad Franklin, Towanda, Pa.
- Syracuse/Northeast, Joe Stagnitti, Canastota, N.Y.
- Fingerlakes/Syracuse West, John Davis, Farmington, N.Y.
- North County, Kia Lapier, Schroon Lake, N.Y.
- Rochester, Dave Lambert, Avon, N.Y.
