Marketing helps our deli world go round, and United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) is calling out the retailers for their hard work in the sector. UNFI has announced the 22 category winners of its annual Master Marketer competition, which recognizes best-in-class marketing efforts by independent grocery retailers served by UNFI’s wholesale distribution business.
“While the grocery industry continues to fulfill its essential purpose of providing food and services to communities across North America, we at UNFI believe it’s important to recognize the dedication and innovation throughout,” said UNFI Chief Customer Officer Steve Dietz. “We’re proud to work with each of the nominees and winners from this year’s Master Marketer program. Congratulations to all, and to Elmer’s for their achievement as this year’s Grand Master Marketer recipient.”
In addition to the category winners, Elmer’s County Market, a family-owned, full-service grocery operator based in Escanaba, Michigan, since 1956, was named the 2021 Grand Master Marketer for overall consistent performance over the years.
This year, 155 marketing programs were submitted for the 2021 Master Marketer awards which are judged based on the creativity, clarity, and effectiveness of the stores’ marketing efforts. Entries were assessed by professors and marketing students from St. Joe’s University, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Michigan.
According to the press release, Babbs Supermarket and Graceway Supermarkets tied for Tier 1 Master Marketer. Dorothy Lane Market took home the Tier 2 Master Marketer while Pay-Less Market took home Tier 3.
The full list of store winners by category can be found here.
Shout out to all the marketers and congratulations to the winners!
