FMI has named 12 exceptional grocery leaders from across the U.S. and around the world as finalists for the 2026 Store Manager Awards, recognizing standout leadership, innovation and community impact in food retail.
By: Jennifer Hatcher, Chief Public Policy Officer & Senior Vice President, Government Relations, FMI
What does it mean to go above and beyond as a store manager? Rebuilding trust with shoppers one delivery at a time, to refinishing café furniture in a home garage to save money, this year’s finalists for the FMI Store Manager Awards prove that great grocery leadership is equal parts strategy, heart and hustle.
We’re proud to announce the 12 finalists for the 2026 Store Manager Awards, recognizing store leaders who are driving results, inspiring teams and strengthening their communities across the food industry. Selected from retailers of all sizes and formats, this year’s finalists represent stores in the United States, Malta, Italy and Georgia.
The finalists are grouped into four distinct categories based on store size and geography.
- Category A (1-49 stores) finalists are James Hensel of Oregon Dairy in Lititz, Pennsylvania; Jeff Payne of Harmons Grocery in Orem, Utah; and Lisa Milla of Strack & Van Til in Munster, Indiana. These leaders are recognized for creating standout store cultures, strengthening customer loyalty and mentoring the next generation of grocery professionals.
- Category B (50-249 stores) finalists are Ashten Walker of Giant Eagle Market District in Solon, Ohio; Luke Schentrup of The Fresh Market in Hendersonville, North Carolina; and Wei Zheng of 99 Ranch Market in Chandler, Arizona. Their accomplishments include driving strong sales growth, championing associate development and serving diverse communities with creativity and care.
- Category C (250+ stores) finalists are Almedin “Almo” Dokic of Food Lion in Richmond, Virginia; Jamie Franck of Hy-Vee in Dubuque, Iowa; and Mark Ferrari of QFC/The Kroger Family of Companies in Bothell, Washington. These seasoned leaders are known for hands-on management styles, operational excellence and a deep commitment to community engagement.
- Category D, the international division, includes Kanchan Rijal of SPAR Paceville in St. Julians, Malta; Salvatore Cossu of EUROSPAR Sorso in Sorso, Italy; and Tina Tsitsava of SPAR Georgia in Tbilisi, Georgia. From 24-hour tourist destinations to revitalized neighborhood stores, these finalists are elevating grocery retail on a global scale.
While every nominee has a unique story, they share a common thread: a passion for people. Whether coaching future leaders, supporting local food banks or helping communities recover after crises, these managers demonstrate the vital role grocery stores play far beyond the checkout lane.
FMI will recognize the winners during a live, virtual celebration on July 23, 2026.
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