Rouses Markets' Josh Smith talks Retail Produce Manager Award

Rouses Markets produce manager Josh Smith got his start in the industry nearly 15 years ago, when he was just 18, and this year the United Fresh Produce Association recognized Smith as one of the top 25 produce managers in the nation.

"Josh exemplifies what it is to be a servant leader," said Rob Ybarra, director of produce for Rouses. "He is a person of high morals, high character, he loves his customers, and he loves his teammates, and they love him. We have customers that go to his store just to see Josh ...

"He motivates us," Ybarra said. "He's a person of high character, high energy, he's all about sales, he gets excited about any contest we have, that we put forth. We are blessed, we are thankful, and we are grateful for Josh's contributions to the Rouses team ... He is one of our superheroes."

When Smith first got the call about the award, he thought it was a companywide recognition. When he was told that he personally was being recognized, not only was he excited, but so were his wife and little kids, Smith said with a smile.

"I love making customers happy," Smith said. "I love merchandising, building huge displays, eye-appealing displays."

Check out the video for the full conversation about Smith's recognition through United Fresh's Retail Produce Manager Awards program.

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