Celebrating Excellence: IFPA’s Retail Merchant Innovation Award Winners Announced
The winners of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)’s prestigious Retail Merchant Innovation Award will be honored at the upcoming Retail Awards Reception, set for October 17 during the Global Produce & Floral Show in Anaheim, California.
Joe Watson, IFPA’s VP of Retail, Foodservice, and Wholesale, emphasized the significance of this year’s honorees: “This year’s winners exemplify how innovation and passion can transform the retail experience and inspire consumers to choose more fresh produce. Their leadership is not only elevating their companies but also moving the entire industry forward.”
Acknowledging Innovative Leaders
The IFPA awarded winners across five distinct store-count categories:
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1-50 Stores: Michelle Mayhew, Director of Produce, Dorothy Lane Market, Dayton, Ohio
With 45 years of industry experience, including over two decades at Dorothy Lane Market, Mayhew’s passion for produce merchandising shines through. She views it as an art form, thanks to the vibrant colors and textures of fresh produce. Her time as a freelance merchandiser has allowed her to realize her creative vision in-store, with special thanks to Norman and Calvin Mayne for their faith in her abilities.
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51-150 Stores: Richard Anderson, Director of Produce, Smith’s, Salt Lake City, Utah
Since joining Smith’s in 2003, Anderson has advanced through various roles, primarily in the produce sector. He prioritizes customer feedback to enhance service opportunities in the communities he serves, consistently striving for excellence.
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151-200 Stores: Scott Bennett, Produce Sales Manager, Jewel-Osco, Itasca, Illinois
With more than 40 years in produce, Bennett is dedicated to quality, customer engagement, and sales growth. His innovative approach continually pushes the boundaries of traditional retail, while his commitment to leadership fosters strong partnerships that benefit the entire produce industry.
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251-399 Stores: Michael Collins, Senior Manager of Produce Operations, Harris Teeter, Matthews, North Carolina
Collins’ extensive experience in store management and merchandising has been instrumental in driving sales growth and efficiency. He focuses on developing high-performing teams and implementing initiatives that enhance customer experiences and boost fresh produce consumption.
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400+ Stores: Danielle Hudgick, Senior Category Manager, Sprouts, Phoenix, Arizona
In her role overseeing sourcing and merchandising for avocados, citrus, and stone fruit, Hudgick is known for her collaborative leadership style and data-driven decision-making. Her commitment to innovation and sustainability continues to influence growth within the produce sector.
Watson concluded, “Congratulations to these innovative retail executives for their remarkable creativity and dedication to advancing the industry and setting a new standard of excellence in produce marketing. We look forward to their continued impact through their unique strategies.”
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