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
Food Lion Feeds is providing 300,000 meals to Feeding America in recognition of Supermarket Associate Day on Feb. 22. The donation is made in honor of Food Lion’s 82,000 associates and is equivalent to more than three meals per associate, symbolizing a full day of nourishment.
Since 2021, Food Lion has contributed 1.8 million meals to celebrate its associates.
“On Supermarket Associate Day, we proudly recognize our dedicated associates across the towns and cities we serve who make Food Lion such a vital part of their communities,” said Greg Finchum, president of Food Lion.
“Every day, they demonstrate what it means to care for their neighbors and ensure families have access to fresh, affordable groceries. At Food Lion, we believe no one should have to choose between dinner and rent or between gas and groceries. This donation is one way of honoring the remarkable efforts of our associates who bring our brand, strategy and culture to life.”
The Kroger Co.
The Kroger Co. is recognizing its more than 400,000 associates for their service to customers every day.
“Supermarket Employee Day gives us a special opportunity to thank our associates for the heart they bring to work each day and the genuine connections they build with customers,” said Tim Massa, EVP and chief associate experience officer.
“They are true experience makers, shaping each shopping trip through their care, creativity and the small moments that make customers feel seen and valued.”
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Schnucks Markets
To thank teammates, those who have a Schnucks Rewards account will receive 5,000 points ($10) as well as an exclusive, teammate-only digital coupon. In addition, Schnucks teammates at all stores, facilities, warehouses and offices will be celebrating all week with various activities that include additional appreciation, fun activities and dress-up themes.
With more than 40,000 individual 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.
“I salute and commend the more than 11,000 Schnucks teammates who remain steadfast in nourishing people’s lives each and every day in the many communities that we serve throughout the Midwest,” said Schnucks Chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck. “It’s because of their commitment to our customers, each other and our organization as a whole that Schnucks has continued to grow as a company since our first store opened in north St. Louis in 1939.”
In 2025, Schnucks recognized a total of 440 teammates celebrating 25-, 30-, 35-, 40-, 45- and 50-year anniversaries meaning those teammates alone combined for 11,357 years serving the company and the many communities where Schnucks stores are located.
Customers are urged to stop by their local Schnucks store to thank the teammates who serve them and are also encouraged to honor their favorite teammates in social media posts by using the hashtag #SupermarketEmployeeDay.
Tops Friendly Markets
Tops Friendly Markets, a full-service grocery retailer serving New York, northern Pennsylvania, and Vermont, is proud to celebrate Supermarket Employee Appreciation Day.
For decades, Tops associates have been the driving force behind the company’s success. Their commitment to service, teamwork, and care for customers has shaped the welcoming shopping experience guests rely on every day.
In their roles across stores, distribution centers, and support teams, Tops associates help strengthen neighborhoods and ensure customers’ needs are met – often going above and beyond, no matter the circumstances.
“Our associates are the heart of Tops Friendly Markets,” said Ron Ferri, president of Tops Friendly Markets. “Their dedication, adaptability, and pride in their work are what allow us to serve our communities day in and day out. On Supermarket Employee Appreciation Day, and every day, we are grateful for the incredible people who make Tops a trusted neighborhood grocer.”
In 2025, Tops recognized 274 associates reaching 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and even 50 year anniversaries for a grand total of 8,735 years of service.