Winter is heating up at Tops Markets as the 2026 Produce Winter Olympic Games officially take flight. Over the next four weeks, stores across the region will go head-to-head in a companywide spectacle of creativity, turning everyday fruits and vegetables into gold-medal-worthy displays.
It’s an all-out celebration of freshness and departmental pride designed to bring a dash of Olympic spirit to every shopper’s cart, according to the grocer.
“The Tops Markets Produce Winter Olympic Games are all about celebrating our people and the incredible work they do every day,” says Jeff Cady, produce director for Tops Markets. “It creates a fun, competitive environment that recognizes great execution while reminding us that fresh, high-quality produce and strong in-store experiences don’t happen by accident; they happen because of passionate store teams who care about what they put on the sales floor. This contest gives our associates a chance to shine and bring energy and excitement to our stores during the cold winter months.”
Running Feb. 1-28, the Produce Winter Olympic Games build on the momentum of last year’s summer competition, challenging store teams to showcase standout produce displays, innovative merchandising and strong sales performance. The program celebrates excellence while energizing stores and enhancing the shopping experience for customers throughout the month, the company says.
Throughout the competition, stores participate in weekly themed events designed to highlight freshness, presentation and promotional creativity within the produce department. Teams compete for thousands of dollars in prizes, along with district honors and yearlong bragging rights.
The four events include:
- Peelz Mandarin Moguls
- Bob Sledding with Berries
- Speed Skating with Seedless Grapes
- Potato Lovers Luge
“Our Produce Winter Olympic Games are all about celebrating our people and the incredible work they do every day,” Cady says. “This program brings friendly competition to life while reinforcing our commitment to fresh, high-quality produce and engaging in-store experiences for our customers.”
Weekly winners earn medals and prizes, while districts accumulate points toward overall Olympic team awards announced during the closing ceremonies. Additional recognition is given for creativity and standout visual presentation, emphasizing innovation and pride in execution.
Tops Markets says the Produce Winter Olympic Games are part of its ongoing efforts to motivate teams, recognize excellence and create vibrant, customer-focused store environments.
