FIF 2023 Booklet.indd

RETAILER OF THE YEAR

Mr. Gerry D’Alessandro Fresh Value

Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Gerry D’Alessandro was immersed in the world of retail, working at his family’s grocery store in Bessemer. From an early age, he was not just watching the business from the sideline; he was in the thick of it, bagging groceries. The rhythms of daily sales, interactions with customers, and the sense of camaraderie among the staff were not just routines for Gerry - they were lessons. By age 25, his entrepreneurial spirit, honed by years of firsthand experience, propelled him to take a significant step: he purchased the family store. This move was not just about maintaining a legacy; it was a manifestation of Gerry’s belief in the power of local businesses to serve and uplift communities. Within a decade, Gerry’s vision translated into tangible growth. The single store in Bessemer morphed into a chain of 14 Fresh Value supermarkets spread across Alabama. Each new location was not just a business expansion - it was a commitment to providing communities with quality meats, produce, and other essentials at affordable prices. Fresh Value was not just a brand; it was Gerry’s mission. Outside of his business life, Gerry is more than just an entrepreneur. He is a dedicated husband, having been married to Mikayla D’Alessandro for 8 years. Their shared passion for exploring new horizons has taken them on numerous travels across the world, creating memories that they cherish. In the landscape of Alabama’s retail industry, Gerry’s name is synonymous with resilience and growth. His journey from a young grocery bagger in Bessemer to the owner of Fresh Value is not only something that he is proud of, but something he continues to expand.