The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) has named Ken Scher, SVP of business development at Associated Supermarket Group (ASG) as the recipient of its 2026 Jimmy Ostling Trade Relations Award.
The award is one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing leadership and dedication in advancing trade relations within the food industry in the state. Scher will be presented with the award in front of his peers during the annual NJFC Trade Relations Conference, set for April 14 at Caesars Atlantic City.
“Ken’s work has helped strengthen collaboration and engagement across all sectors of the food industry, making him a most deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition,” said NJFC President & CEO Linda Doherty.
Scher has more than 45 years of experience in the grocery and food industry. In 2017, he transitioned to Associated Supermarket Group, where he works closely with senior leadership to drive business development initiatives and strengthen retailer and supplier relationships.
Doherty also cited Scher’s vision to aid those in the food industry. “Scher is deeply committed to giving back to the industry,” Doherty said. “In 2013, he helped found Friends of the Food Industry, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting food industry professionals facing personal or financial hardship.”
Scher added, “One hundred percent of the funds raised go directly to those in need, with zero red tape. In some cases, it is a matter of two days from when we hear of a problem and a check is in the person’s hand.”
Over the past 13 years, Friends of the Food Industry has raised more than $1.5 million and distributed more than $1.2 million in assistance. Scher serves on the executive board.
Learn more about the NJFC Trade Relations Conference here.
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