Produce Modern Retailing Drives Innovation
Embracing change while honoring tradition, today’s award-winning retailers blend taste, technology and sustainability to redefine the shopping experience.
by TAD THOMPSON
I n the competitive world of retail sales, produce mar- keters are leveraging emerging technology and fresh marketing strategies for fruits and vegetables. The potential rewards go beyond just increased profits; higher sales and consumption can significantly improve public health. North American retailers are well-posi- tioned to benefit by embracing and implementing innova - tions that elevate produce sales. At its 2022 convention in Orlando, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) seized these opportu- nities with the debut of the IFPA Awards for Excellence in Retail Merchant Innovation. Vision Magazine recently in- vited winners from the five categories to discuss their in - novative approaches. Several offered their insights below. The IFPA’s award criteria state: “This award recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of a vice president, director, sales manager, or equivalent position in the retail sector, who has shown passion and purpose in developing innovative strategies to increase produce consumption.”
In the 2022 category awards: Brian Penfield of Sendik’s Food Markets in Milwaukee secured the 1-50 stores category. Jim Gaylord of Wegmans Food Markets in Rochester, NY won the 51-150 stores category. Barry Paul of Shaw’s Supermarkets in West Bridgewater, MA, took the 151-250 stores category. Jeff Mallory of Hy-Vee Inc. in West Des Moines, IA cap - tured the 251-399 stores category. Victor Savanello of SpartanNash Co. in Grand Rapids, MI prevailed in the 400+ stores category. The evolving industry sees pressing issues such as labor availability, food safety, sustainability and the introduction of new produce varieties shaping many con- temporary practices. Sustainability In an effort to promote sustainability by reducing food waste, Sendik’s Food Markets, in Milwaukee, has intro-
18 Vision Magazine
October/November 2023
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