2017Issue5_Alabama_v6

AGA NEWS

ALABAMA GROCERS ASSOCIATION HOLDS 27TH ANNUAL CONVENTION The Alabama Grocers Association recently held its 27th Annual Convention at the Sandestin Beach Resort in Destin, Florida. The Association brought members from all aspects of the grocery industry together to promote the growth and success of the food industry throughout Alabama. The convention kicked off with the Larry D. Eddleman, Sr. Golf Classic at the Baytowne Golf Club. The business forum was held the following day and included Keynote Speaker, Thom Singer, a sales and marketing veteran, who spoke on connecting with people in a gadget crazed world. Mr. Eric Pulwicz, FBI Special Agent, held an active shooter seminar and informed attendees how to manage real-life situations, address employer

responsibilities and develop workplace strategies. ABC Administrator Mac Gipson addressed the group on the new Off-Premise Tasting Regulations that go into effect August 5, 2017 and Stacey Neumann, Vendor Management Director, Alabama WIC Department addressed attendees on the upcoming e-WIC rollout beginning in 2018. Lastly, an e-Commerce Panel was held to teach attendees the newest consumer trends and

with featuring more than 70 booths from all aspects of the grocery industry. The Chairman’s Banquet featured football legend Al Del Greco as celebrity entertainment. Several awards were given including a Joint Resolution from Senate Agriculture Conservation and Forestry Chair Tom Whatley commemorating the SNAP Online Pilot Program to Jimmy Wright, Wright’s Market. Association Legislative Consultant Patrick McWhorter presented Senator Jabo Waggoner with the Spirit of Alabama Award, which recognizes individuals that are involved in the support of pro-business legislation and are advocates for the grocery community in Alabama. Sales and marketing veteran Thom Singer was the convention's keynote speaker.

The evening followed with a silent auction and casino party. First Place golf winners included Graham Minor, Trey Day and Brad Maness with Bevco Beverages and Pete Mahoney with Food Giant. A silent auction and raffle chaired by Johnny Collins of Dean Foods was held Monday night which raised more than $30,000 for the Alabama Grocers Education Foundation. This year the Alabama Grocers Education Foundation awarded 61 scholarships totaling more than $59,500, and to date has awarded more than $1.2 million in total scholarships.

Mac Gipson, Alabama Beverage Control Board

best practices related to home delivery and click-and-collect services. Tuesday afternoon also included an exhibit hall

Convention attendees enjoyed a special Casino Night.

Chairman Greg Gregerson receives Joint Resolution in commemoration of the Glen P Woodard FMI Award

s.

| ALABAMA GROCER 12