Supermarket Employee Day on Feb. 22, 2025, recognizes grocery store employees’ dedication to nourishing communities. Retailers nationwide are celebrating their teams with events, discounts, and donations.
The Origin of Supermarket Employee Day
The Food Industry Association (FMI) established Supermarket Employee Day in 2021 to acknowledge the essential role of grocery workers.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, supermarket employees played a crucial role in keeping stores stocked and communities supported.
Since then, the celebration has grown, with retailers nationwide participating in annual appreciation events.
Heritage Grocers Group Appreciates Its Team
Heritage Grocers Group, the nation’s largest Hispanic and ethnic food retailer, is recognizing its employees through discounts, social media spotlights, and local donations. Stores will host pizza parties for team members at all 115 locations. Additionally, the company is donating to local organizations in honor of its employees’ commitment to serving their communities.
“Our team members are the heart of HGG,” said Suzy Monford, CEO of Heritage Grocers Group. “Their enthusiasm and dedication make our stores great places to work and shop.”
ShopRite Encourages Customer Recognition
ShopRite invites customers to show appreciation for associates by leaving notes at designated Customer Compliment tables. The company highlights the importance of employees’ commitment to helping communities eat well and stay happy. Special storewide announcements and shout-outs will honor employees throughout the day.
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Minnesota Grocers Association Gains Statewide Support
Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz has officially proclaimed Feb. 22 as Supermarket Employee Day.
Shoppers are encouraged to share positive experiences about grocery workers at local stores. Some Minnesota supermarkets will offer complimentary snacks and drinks to employees, while others will hold small recognition ceremonies.
Schnucks Celebrates Supermarket Employee Day With Rewards
Schnucks Markets is honoring workers with a weeklong celebration. Employees with Schnucks Rewards accounts will receive 5,000 points ($10) and exclusive digital coupons. The company also hosts activities and appreciation events, such as themed dress-up days, raffles, and in-store celebrations.
“Our teammates are the backbone of our company,” said Chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck. “They are the primary reason Schnucks has had the honor of serving millions and millions of customers over the past 86 years”.
Brookshire Grocery Company and Miller’s Market Show Appreciation
Brookshire Grocery Company offers employees a 22% discount on one transaction as a thank-you for their service. Additionally, team members will receive special recognition through internal company communications and storewide announcements.
Miller’s Food Market is joining the festivity by providing free lunches for all employees and handing out appreciation gifts. Managers will personally thank employees for their dedication and highlight their contributions through a social media campaign.
Kroger’s Central Division Honors Employees
Kroger’s Central Division is acknowledging the impact of its 15,000 associates. “I’m in awe of the impact our associates make, for their ability and their willingness to turn routine shopping trips into memorable occasions,” said Colleen Juergensen, president of the Central Division.
Kroger will also host employee appreciation events featuring prize drawings and team-building activities.
Food Lion Feeds Donates 250,000 Meals
Food Lion is donating 250,000 meals to Feeding America in honor of its 82,000 employees.
“Our associates are the heart of Food Lion, and their care and dedication to our neighbors inspires us every day,” said Meg Ham, President of Food Lion.
Many Food Lion stores will also hold local recognition events, offering team lunches and appreciation awards.
Supermarket Employee Day, established by FMI—The Food Industry Association in 2021, continues to grow. With over 40,000 grocery stores nationwide, millions of workers are essential to keeping communities thriving.