EAGLE, ID - In this industry, the best thing you can do is be a sponge. To thrive in fresh produce takes the will to be continuously learning—forever a student of the game. Such is the case for Matt Zapczynski, who was recently appointed as the Idaho Potato Commission’s (IPC) new Retail Promotion Director, Northeast/Midwest.
“I’ve always felt that Idaho Potato Commission is a great support system for retailers,” says Zapczynski. “Whether you needed a promotion put together, or one of the stores had a grand opening or a renovation to celebrate, IPC was always there to step up and do something special.”
Based in North Carolina, Zapczynski joined Merchants Distributors in 2017, soon finding himself drawn to the produce side of the business. According to a press release, he then advanced from Produce Buyer to Director of Produce Operations during his seven years at the wholesale grocery distributor. He expanded his knowledge through the Southeast Produce Council’s STEP-UPP training program and participated in the inaugural class of SEPC’s Next Generation Leadership Academy last year.
“I’ve always been involved in learning programs—I just try to be the best sponge I can,” adds Zapczynski. “Produce is something new every day. It’s dominated by the weather, so you could have a great day tomorrow—or a storm could keep you on your toes.”
Before his time with Merchants Distributors, Zapczynski served in a series of full-time, in-store positions at The Giant Company for 14 years, where he managed deli, customer operations, and nonperishable operations.
“Matt is a natural leader who is always looking ahead to prepare for the produce industry’s future,” says Ross Johnson, Vice President of Retail and International. “His background in both retail and wholesale makes him a perfect fit to help Northeast/Midwest retailers reap the many benefits of selling the Idaho brand. I know everyone is really going to enjoy working with him!”
Congrats to this talented produce pro for joining the IPC’s dynamic team!
