West Region Produce Managers from left include: Jeff Cady, vice president, produce and floral, Tops; Darryl Gregoire, Bob Bonus (produce field specialist) Aaron Brown of Dunkirk, Dan Fisher, West region produce manager of the year, Ray Sherman, Ted Elliott, and Rick Wright (produce field specialist).
Brad Franklin, produce manager for Tops Friendly Markets in Towanda, Pa., will receive the 2024 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Award. For the commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service, and customer satisfaction, he is one of only 20 produce managers nationwide being recognized from the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) with this high distinction.
“These prestigious awards are a shining example of IFPA’s commitment to grow prosperity for companies in the global fresh produce supply chain while creating a vibrant future for all,” Watson added. “Our recognition of the pivotal role produce managers play for their companies and the produce industry wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Robinson Fresh.”
The winners will be recognized at IFPA’s 2024 Global Produce and Floral Show, next month in Atlanta, GA, five produce managers taking home the coveted Grand Prize Winner award.
Also receiving honors from Buffalo South was Aaron Brown of the Dunkirk Tops.