Are you sweet on your store manager?

By: David Fikes,Vice President of Consumer/Community Affairs, Food Marketing Institute 

Supermarket store managers are the heart and lifeblood of their store, and often the backbone of their community. They turn on the lights, balance the books and walk the line between corporate and store-level employees. Looking at their job duties and required skills, you might think these outstanding leaders could easily transition into being professional circus ringmasters – so gifted are they at keeping everything moving.  As the ringleaders of our industry; they are our boots-on-the-ground innovators and guides.   They successfully work against business objectives and company goals, while finding  creative ways to involve their community and delight their shoppers.

It is always moving to see the programs our members are creating, such as those recognized in with FMI’s annual Community Outreach Awards.  And it never fails to bring a smile to my face when I see the intricate and whimsical in-store displays that so brilliantly demonstrate this business/pleasure mix of a store manager’s role.  In the past, my grocer had set up a Valentine’s Day display with the candies and cards alongside a Peanut’s-style advice booth. These small touches change the shopping experience into something far more enjoyable than grabbing candy off a shelf. Through these efforts, store managers help connect the way we shop and what we eat with our larger human experience. And though both of these are changing at a rapid pace, it is safe to say that the role of our grocers and store managers will only become more important.

Though there is no Peanut’s advice booth at my store this year, there is much we can learn simply by observing the effort and creativity of our store managers.  Now you can take a moment to recognize these store leaders and let them know we appreciate all they do.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2015 Store Manager Awards Program. Finalists will receive complimentary registration and accommodation at FMI Connect Chicago and the Grand Prize winners will be recognized with a cash price and crystal award. Send a valentine to your favorite store manager by submitting your nomination today.