Commitment, innovation, and service are the hallmarks of the International Fresh Produce Association Retail Produce Manager Awards. Nominations are open until March 15, and IFPA encourages all produce industry members to nominate a deserving produce manager for this prestigious award.
IFPA honors 20 top retail produce managers this year for their dedication to boosting fresh produce sales, innovative merchandising, community service, and shopper satisfaction. In October, winners will be recognized at The Global Produce & Floral Show in Atlanta, GA. Five of the winners will take home the coveted 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,” said IFPA Vice President of Retail, Foodservice & Wholesale Joe Watson. “Anyone can nominate a produce manager for this award. Retailers know their stellar performers, 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.
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”Robinson Fresh is proud to sponsor the IFPA Retail Produce Manager Awards,” said Robinson Fresh President Jose Rossignoli.
“This is a truly special recognition that honors those on the front line in supermarkets working daily 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,” emphasized Rossignoli.
Big Benefits for Produce Managers Winning IFPA Awards
At the Global Produce & Floral Show, winners of the IFPA Retail Produce Manager Awards will be VIPs connecting with top produce industry executives. Every manager will return to their store with an expanded understanding of their role in the industry’s success.
They will also receive industry-wide recognition in trade publications, within their companies, and in Atlanta at the Global Produce and Floral Show before their colleagues and customers.
In education, they can attend educational programs and gain valuable knowledge and insights to share with customers when they return to their stores.
Winners will also enjoy numerous opportunities to interact with Global Produce & Floral Show attendees and exhibitors. The exposition, meetings, receptions, and events will allow this select group to meet the people who bring their produce to market.