Grocers across the U.S. are taking time to celebrate their associates on Supermarket Employee Day.
Supermarket Employee Day is part of a national effort to honor frontline grocery workers. First declared in 2021 by FMI – The Food Industry Association, Feb. 22 recognizes essential workers who support their customers and communities.
With more than 40,000 stores that sell food and grocery items in the U.S. alone, many supermarkets serve as the backbones of their communities. Millions of supermarket employees come to work daily to keep shelves stocked and to provide communities with essential services that help them survive and thrive.
“Through their reliable service in diverse circumstances, supermarket employees have earned our gratitude and respect, which is why we designate February 22 to celebrate them,” said Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI – The Food Industry Association.
“Our gratitude goes out to the employees in our industry who personify compassion and courage when communities most need encouragement and assistance.”
Among those celebrating this event are:
Food Lion
In support of Supermarket Employee Day on Feb. 22, Food Lion Feeds is helping to provide 250,000 meals to its longtime partner Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization. This donation, made on behalf of Food Lion’s 82,000 associates, exceeds three meals per associate for a full day of nutrition.
Since 2021, Food Lion has donated 1.25 million meals in recognition of its associates, acknowledging their dedication and countless ways they help customers nourish their families.
“Our associates are the heart of Food Lion, and their care and dedication to our neighbors inspires us every day,” said Food Lion President Meg Ham.
“At Food Lion, we believe no one should have to choose between dinner and rent or gas and groceries. This donation is one way we celebrate our associates’ efforts to care for the towns and cities we serve and reinforce our shared commitment to nourish those experiencing food insecurity.”
Heritage Grocers Group
Heritage Grocers Group has proclaimed the month of February as Team Member Appreciation Month.
“Our Team Members are the heart and soul of HGG, and we appreciate what they do every day to celebrate our Cardenas, El Rancho and Tony’s Fresh Markets communities,” said Suzy Monford, chairman and CEO for Heritage Grocers Group. “Their hard work, team spirit and enthusiasm make our stores fun places to shop and work.”
In addition to increased discounts on employee purchases throughout February, Heritage is also highlighting its team members on its social channels, making donations to local organizations on behalf of associates and hosting pizza parties at its 115 store locations on Feb. 22.
Schnucks Markets
To thank its workers, employees that have a Schnucks Rewards account will receive 5,000 points ($10) as well as an exclusive digital coupon.
In addition, Schnucks teammates at all stores, facilities, warehouses and offices held various activities throughout the week leading up to Feb. 22 that include additional appreciation, fun activities and dress up themes:
- Feb. 17 – Tacky Tourist Takeover
- Feb. 18 – Red, White and You
- Feb. 19 – The Superhero Within
- Feb. 20 – Sports Style Showdown
- Feb. 21 – Battle of the Band Shirts
- Feb. 22 – Schnucks Spirit Wear
- Feb. 23 – Hat’s the Way I like It
“This week provides the ideal opportunity for us to celebrate the work our nearly 12,000 teammates do to help nourish people’s lives both in our stores and our communities,” said Schnucks Chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck.
“Our teammates are the backbone of our company and the primary reason Schnucks has had the honor of serving millions and millions of customers over the past 86 years.”
In 2024, Schnucks recognized 278 employees celebrating 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45 and 50-year anniversaries, meaning those teammates alone combined for 8,590 years serving the company and the many communities where Schnucks stores are located.
Tops Friendly Markets
Tops Friendly Markets joins supermarkets and food manufacturers nationwide in celebrating Supermarket Employee Day.
“Our employees help the whole community stay strong,” said Ron Ferri, president of Tops.
“We continue to adapt and serve our communities every day. There is no question that supermarket employees deserve our recognition and respect. We are thrilled to honor and celebrate them.”
In the face of a crisis, such as a natural disaster, supermarket employees sustain communities. They maintain the critical pipeline of food and consumer goods that sustain the health and well-being of their customers. Supermarket employees also volunteer countless hours and contribute valuable support to community service. According to The Food Retailing Industry Speaks report, 82 percent of food retailers engage in community support and build local ties.
“On behalf of Tops, we invite the community to stop into any one of our 152 stores on February 22 to congratulate and thank local supermarket employees,” Ferri added. “Better yet, honor your favorite supermarket employee in your social media and use the hashtag, #SupermarketEmployeeDay.”
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