Ellie Taylor
Alabama Grocers Assn.
In the last few years, she has helped promote her state’s local food manufacturing products through two unique programs, “Buy Alabama’s Best,” and EatAtHomeAlabama.com. She has also worked extensively to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Alabama besides also working on many civic projects.
Ms. Taylor started working for the Alabama Grocers Association in 1995 after graduating from the University of Alabama with a bachelor of science in commerce and business administration with a concentration in marketing. She served as event/membership coordinator and executive vice president for the AGA before becoming president in 2007. She assumed the leadership post as president of the association in 2007 after the retirement of her father, James Smotherman.
In 2006, in coordination with member Alabama food manufacturers, she helped to create the Buy Alabama’s Best Campaign. This campaign promotes products that are made, produced, manufactured or headquartered in the state.
In 2009, she was awarded the Alabama Grocers Association’s Spirit of Alabama award for her work in promoting Alabama products and her development of the grocery website, EatAtHomeAlabama.com. This website promotes the grocery industry in the state and highlights the importance and benefits of eating at home and spending time with family.
