NEWARK, DE & WASHINGTON, DC - Do you know someone who works tirelessly to advance the produce industry at the retail level? Someone who increases sales and the consumption of fresh fruits and veggies? International Fresh Produce Association is making it easy to recognize these folks as the changemakers they are through its Award Programs.
Top retail Produce Managers and retail Vice President/Directors can be nominated for the following:
- The Retail Produce Manager Awards Program
- The Retail Merchant Innovation Awards Program
The Retail Produce Manager Awards Program, which is sponsored by Dole plc, pays special recognition to Produce Managers who represent the produce industry to the consumer and work every day to increase sales and consumption of fresh produce, a press release explained.
“As the world emerges from the pandemic with new shopping habits, it’s important that we realize neighborhood stores are still where produce is most often purchased; and companies that grow and market fresh products remain reliant on and indebted to the produce managers that represent their products to shoppers,” said Johan Linden, Chief Operating Officer, Dole plc. “Honoring these individuals with the Retail Produce Manager Award is an opportunity for Dole to acknowledge and thank them for their critical roles in landing produce in the shopping cart.”
IFPA will honor 25 of the industry’s top retail produce managers for their commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service, and customer satisfaction.
The Retail Merchant Innovation Awards Program, sponsored by Sage Fruit Company, recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of a Vice President or Director in the produce department of a retail banner. This individual demonstrates passion and purpose in developing innovative strategies to drive produce consumption.
“Sage Fruit is very excited to sponsor IFPA’s Retail Merchant Innovation Awards Program. Without all the great displays that are built daily, produce sales would not be as high as they are. These artists in produce departments are crucial to the success of the store and the overall image that is projected to the consumer,” stated Chuck Sinks, President of Sales and Marketing for Sage Fruit.
IFPA will honor five winners per store-count category, based on engaging stories that show how those strategies were brought to life in the retail setting, and the impact they had on consumers.
Winners of both awards programs will be recognized on stage at IFPA’s The Global Produce and Floral Show, October 27–29 in Orlando, Florida.
If you’re looking to nominate someone, take note! Nominations for the Retail Produce Manager Awards Program must be received no later than May 13, 2022; nominations for the Retail Merchant Innovation Awards Program must be received no later than July 29, 2022.
Best of luck!
