The Alabama Grocers Association (AGA), the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries and the Alabama Food Manufacturers and Producers Association (AFMPA) held a media briefing and sampling event for the Buy Alabama’s Best campaign March 20 on the Capitol lawn in Montgomery.
Speakers included Gov. Kay Ivey; State Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate; AFMPA President Melinda Drummond; AGA Chairman Bob Crawford; Cause Marketing and Corporate Partnerships at Children’s of Alabama Grace Graffeo; and AGA President/CEO and AFMPA Executive Director Ellie Taylor.
The Buy Alabama’s Best formed in 2006 when four companies based in the state, the AGA and agriculture department and saw a need to identify products that were made in Alabama. The campaign has grown to more than 35 companies that are headquartered in Alabama or produce goods in the state.
Alabama food manufacturers and producers not only sell products in state and employ residents, but they also purchase vast amounts of raw farm products to make goods, paper, boxes and packaging. Alabama food product sales have a $2 billion impact on the state’s economy and tax base. Along with foodservice industries, they employ one out of every four Alabamians.
Retailers throughout Alabama will be supporting this campaign in their stores with Alabama product displays, ads, signage and special promotions.
The Buy Alabama’s Best Campaign continues to partner with Children’s of Alabama, having raised more than $855,000 for the charity through icon sales, donations and grants.
Founded in 1911, Children’s of Alabama provides medical care for ill and injured children. With more than 3.5 million square feet, it is one of the largest pediatric medical facilities in the U.S.
“Thank you to our state leaders and community members who are such strong supporters of our Alabama companies,” Taylor said.
“We are proud of our local partnership with our neighbor, Children’s of Alabama, because they have touched the lives of so many in our state.”
About the Alabama Grocers Association
The AGA is a state trade association representing the Alabama grocery retail industry since 1990. It boasts more than 100 retail members operating more than 750 stores statewide, as well as some 210 manufacturers, brokers, wholesalers and other members.
Read more association news from The Shelby Report.
