Alabama Grocer 2022 Issue 4 for Print Final

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Vendor of the Year Chris Crosby UTZ Snacks/Golden Flake

“It is a team win,” said Crosby. “It is not just me. It is really the whole UTZ family. I give everybody the credit because I could not do what I do without everybody who is a part of this team.”

Wholesaler of the Year Frank D’Amico, III BTC Wholesale Distributors

ALABAMA’S 2022 FOOD INDUSTRY FINEST LUNCHEON The Alabama Grocers Association hosted their annual Food Industry Finest Luncheon on October 27th honoring this year’s award winners. President Pro Tempore, Senator Greg Reed and House Majority Leader, Representative Nathaniel Ledbetter were this year’s guest speakers. We joined together to raise money for our political action fund, raising over $25,000. This money ensures that our voice is heard in Montgomery. More than 100 people attended the event at The Club to discuss the work of the Alabama Grocers Association in 2022 and those in the food, beverage and grocery profession here in Alabama. The Alabama Grocers Association honored the following individuals with their year awards: The Retailer of the Year Award was presented to Harold Garrett, President and General Manager of Gateway Foods. The Wholesaler of the Year Award was given to Frank D’Amico, III, President of BTC Wholesale Distributors. The Vendor of the Year Award recipient was Chris Crosby, Senior Account Executive of UTZ Snacks/Golden Flake. The Alabama Grocers Association has been honoring professionals who are making an impact in the grocery industry with these awards since 1996.

“I certainly could not do this by myself, so I do not feel like I am the wholesaler,” said D’Amico. “I am just one cog in the wheel of the Wholesaler of the Year.”

Retailer of the Year Harold Garrett Gateway Foods

“Anytime you receive an award from your peers, it makes you feel good,” said Garrett. “This group of people that I am with in the AGA is a special group, which makes me feel especially honored to be chosen.” “Each of these fine individuals exemplify leadership and excellence in Alabama’s grocery industry.” said Ellie Taylor, President of the Alabama Grocers Association. “We are thankful for the opportunity to honor them and their commitment today.”

33 | ALABAMA GROCER