BOCA RATON, FL — January 13, 2003 — Recognizing his exemplary leadership in advancing technology and community service, Tim Smucker, chairman and co-CEO of The J.M. Smucker Company, received the 2003 William H. Albers award from the Food Marketing Institute (FMI). FMI Chairman Ron Pearson presented the award during FMI’s Midwinter Executive Conference in Boca Raton, FL.   

Tim Smucker is an industry leader, especially in the technology arena. As chairman of the Uniform Code Council and chairman of the UCC.EAN Global Policy Committee, he led the undertaking for synchronizing product codes used in the United States, Canada and worldwide. Currently vice president of EAN International, Smucker will become president this May. Smucker is also a strong advocate of UCCnet — an electronic forum for global commerce — which will administer the global registry for consumer products.

“Tim Smucker and his company have been model servants of their local community,” said Pearson. “His leadership style that emphasizes listening, respect, teamwork and quality has made his company extremely successful. FMI is proud to have such a positive representative for the industry.”

Under Smucker’s leadership, the company formed the Heartland Education Community, a venture to improve education for local citizens, build character and engage the community in the process. The company also promotes education and literacy through a long-time partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of America.