ARLINGTON, Va. — FMI – The Food Industry Association has recognized four outstanding food retail leaders through its 2026 Store Manager Awards, which honor store managers for excellence in operations, customer service, team leadership, innovation and community engagement.
The winners were announced during a livestreamed awards ceremony from a field of more than 110 nominations and 12 finalists.
This year's category winners are James Hensel of Oregon Dairy in Lititz, Pa. (Category A); Wei Zheng of 99 Ranch Market in Chandler, Ariz. (Category B); Mark Ferrari of QFC, part of The Kroger Family of Companies, in Bothell, Wash. (Category C); and Kanchan Rijal of SPAR EXPRESS Paceville in St. Julians, Malta (Category D).
Ferrari also received the 2026 People's Pick Award after earning more than 10,000 of the more than 16,700 votes cast in an online public voting competition, reflecting broad support from customers, associates and members of the community.
"Store managers are essential leaders in the food industry, combining business savvy, customer service, and social skills to create a store environment where the local community finds the food they want and the connections they seek," said Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI. "This year's Store Manager Awards winners show us what exceptional leadership looks like in action, and their stories remind us that food retail is not just managing supply chains and maintaining an attractive storefront; it's a business of caring for people and serving a community."
The annual awards recognize food retail managers who demonstrate operational excellence while making meaningful contributions to their stores and local communities. The program is supported by presenting sponsor The Coca-Cola Company.
According to FMI, the 2026 competition attracted more than 110 nominations from food retailers, with 12 finalists advancing before winners were selected in four categories and through the People's Pick online vote.
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