MITCHELL, SD - Creativity in retail displays creates wins for buy and supply, solidifying relationships and developing programs that deliver on shopper satisfaction and repeat purchases. The 2026 Idaho Potato Lovers Month Display Contest, hosted by the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC), showcased the power of working together.
As the Western Region Grand Prize Winner, Garrett Fowden created a display that stood out for its creativity.
"Potato Lovers Month is designed so every produce manager who builds a qualifying display has an opportunity to win," said Patrick Mills, Retail Promotion Director for the Idaho Potato Commission. Patrick traveled to Kamas Food Town to personally present Garrett with his Grand Prize television and celebrate the accomplishment. “Garrett was randomly selected as our Western Region Grand Prize winner, but after visiting his store, it was easy to see why he's so respected. His creativity doesn't stop with Idaho potatoes—he's constantly finding innovative ways to grow produce sales and improve the shopping experience. It was a pleasure to recognize both his good fortune and his outstanding leadership."
While Garrett's qualifying display earned him entry into the Grand Prize drawing, the celebration also provided an opportunity for Patrick to recognize Garrett's exceptional leadership and innovation within the produce department. During the visit, he learned more about an overwrap program that Garrett developed, which has increased sales of commodities such as green beans and Brussels sprouts by nearly tenfold. His ability to think differently about produce merchandising and execute new ideas has earned him a reputation as one of the industry's rising leaders.
The celebration also highlighted the outstanding partnership between the Idaho Potato Commission and Associated Food Stores.
IPC recognized Leigh Vaughn, Director of Produce and Floral for Associated Food Stores, for his continued commitment to the Idaho potato category and his support of retailer participation.
"Programs like Potato Lovers Month are successful because they recognize the people who make a difference in our stores every day," Vaughn noted. "Garrett represents the kind of produce manager every retailer hopes to have; someone who is constantly looking for new ways to engage customers, grow sales, and improve the department. We're incredibly proud of Garrett and appreciate the Idaho Potato Commission for recognizing the hard work of our store teams."
Ross Johnson, Vice President of Retail and International for the Idaho Potato Commission, added that Potato Lovers Month has become one of the industry's most anticipated retail promotions because it recognizes the people behind the produce department while rewarding their creativity and enthusiasm.
The Idaho Potato Lovers Month Display Contest encourages produce managers throughout North America to create eye-catching Idaho potato displays that inspire shoppers while driving category sales. More than 2,100 retailers participated in the 2026 promotion, with every qualifying entrant receiving a prize, and three regional grand prize winners were selected at random. The program awards more than $150,000 in cash and prizes annually while celebrating the dedication and creativity of produce professionals across the industry.
ANUK will continue to cover partnerships that drive the industry forward, so stay tuned!
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Idaho Potato Commission
The Idaho Potato Commission is a state agency with many responsibilities, including the promotion of Idaho Potatoes. The…
