Last updated on October 16th, 2017 at 09:58 am
United Fresh now is accepting nominations for the 2018 Retail Produce Manager Awards Program, which recognizes 25 outstanding retail produce managers for their innovative merchandising, produce-related community outreach, increased store sales and recognition among company peers.
The Retail Produce Manager Awards Program sponsored by Dole Food Co. and now in its 14th year, pays special recognition to produce managers on the front line in supermarkets working to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
“The ability to creatively merchandise the product, interact with the customers, and oversee the growth of not only the product, but the people within the department, is paramount,” said Jeff Cady, director of produce/floral at Tops Friendly Markets and vice chairman of the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board. “Produce is a vital part of our day-to-day business, and being able to undertake this and manage it successfully is something we truly appreciate and want to recognize in these individuals.”
The 25 award winners, along with their corporate produce directors, will receive complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations and registration to United Fresh 2018, taking place June 25-27 in Chicago. The winners will be honored on June 27, when five grand prize winners will be announced as recipients of an additional $1,000 cash prize.
As one of the world’s largest producers and marketers of fresh fruit and vegetables, Dole Food Co. says it is proud to honor the produce managers who are driven to make a difference in the industry and the communities in which they live.
“This is Dole’s fourth year as title sponsor of the United Fresh Produce Manager of the Year Award, and we could not be more proud to be a part of this important recognition program. These men and women do so much to promote the increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, and this gives us an opportunity to recognize that contribution and genuinely say thank you,” said Tim Stejskal, GM and SVP of sales for Dole Fresh Vegetables.
Since the program’s inception, more than 300 produce managers from more than 100 different retail banners have been honored. Nominations now are being accepted for the 2018 program. Nomination forms may be accessed at www.unitedfresh.org/rma and must be received by Friday, Jan. 12, 2018.
For more information about the program, including selection criteria and a list of past winners visit, www.unitedfresh.org/rma, or contact Jeff Oberman, United Fresh VP, trade relations at [email protected] or 831-600-8922.
