NEWS RELEASE – United Fresh is now accepting nominations for the 2019 Retail Produce Manager Awards Program. This program 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 Company and now in its 15th year, pays special recognition to produce managers on the front line in supermarkets working every day to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
“This is Dole’s fifth year as title sponsor of the United Fresh Retail Produce Manager Awards, and we could not be more proud to be a part of this important recognition program,” shared Johan Linden, President and CEO of Dole Food Company. “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 a platform to express our sincere thanks on behalf of our company and our industry.”
25 award winners, along with their corporate produce directors, will receive complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations and registration to United Fresh 2019, taking place June 10-12 in Chicago.
As one of the world’s largest producers and marketers of high-quality fresh fruit and fresh vegetables, Dole Food Company, Inc., the awards program sponsor, is proud to honor the Retail Produce Managers who are driven to make a difference in our industry and the communities in which they live.
“The ability to creatively merchandise product, interact with customers, and oversee the growth of not only the department’s offerings, but also the people within the department, is paramount,” noted Jeff Cady, Director of Produce & Floral, Tops Friendly Markets and Chairman of the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board. “Fresh produce is a vital part of our day-to-day business, and being able manage it successfully is invaluable and truly appreciated throughout the industry.”
Since the program’s inception, over 300 produce managers from over 100 different retail banners have been honored. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2019 program. Nomination forms may be accessed online at www.unitedfresh.org and must be received by Thursday, January 24, 2019.
For more information about the program, including selection criteria and a list of past winners visit www.unitedfresh.org, or contact Spencer Crawford, United Fresh’s Manager of Industry Relations at scrawford@unitedfresh.org or 202-303-3415.
