Commitment, innovation, and service are the hallmarks of the International Fresh Produce Association Retail Produce Manager Awards. Nominations for the honors opened in mid-January.
IFPA encourages all members of the produce industry to nominate a deserving produce manager for this award, according to a news release.
This year IFPA will honor 20 top retail produce managers for their dedication to boosting fresh produce sales, innovative merchandising, community service and shopper satisfaction, the release said. Winners will be recognized at the Global Produce and Floral Show in Atlanta in October. Five of the winners will take home a grand prize winner award.
“Nominated by their peers, these produce managers make a difference every day by their commitment to their departments — serving shoppers to achieve their company’s goals,” IFPA Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale Joe Watson said in the release. “Anyone can nominate a produce manager for this award. Retailers know who their stellar performers are, and suppliers clearly see which managers are getting the job done. We appreciate everyone who nominates these frontline stars.”
Watson acknowledged the award program sponsor, Robinson Fresh, for its commitment to recognizing and encouraging outstanding store-level performance.
“Robinson Fresh is proud to sponsor the IFPA Retail Produce Manager Awards,” Robinson Fresh President Jose Rossignoli said in the release. “This is a truly special recognition that honors those on the front line in supermarkets working every day to increase sales of fresh fruits and vegetables. This year’s nominees and winners showcase what it takes to deliver a great consumer experience that drives repeat traffic. Their commitment does not go unnoticed, and by building strong connections and loyalty with consumers, the hard work of these managers supports success for the broader fresh produce industry.”
