Tops celebrates produce manager's IFPA honors
Brad Franklin, produce manager for Tops Friendly Markets in Towanda, PA, will receive the 2024 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Award. For his commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service and customer satisfaction, Franklin is one of only 20 produce managers nationwide being recognized by the International Fresh Produce Association with this high distinction.
"Brad is a seasoned produce manager who just continues to get better year after year. As the produce department continues to evolve into what the 2024 consumer wants, Brad has the ability to over deliver," said Jeff Cady, vice president of produce and floral for Northeast Shared Services, under the parent company Northeast Grocery Inc. which serves Tops and Price Chopper/Market 32.
“These prestigious awards are a shining example of IFPA’s commitment to grow prosperity for companies in the global fresh produce supply chain while creating a vibrant future for all,” said Joe Watson, IFPA's vice president of retail, foodservice and wholesale membership.
The winners will be recognized at IFPA’s 2024 Global Produce & Floral Show next month in Atlanta, with five produce managers taking home the coveted Grand Prize Winner award.
Franklin started with Penn Traffic, which was later acquired by Tops, in 1994. He is a resident of Monroeton, PA.
Tops took this opportunity to shine a light on some of its other outstanding produce managers within the company:
- West Produce Manager of the Year Dan Fisher (Liberty, PA)
- Buffalo East – Ted Elliott (East Aurora, NY)
- Buffalo North – Ray Sherman (Medina, NY)
- Buffalo South – Aaron Brown (Dunkirk, NY)
- Buffalo Central - Darryl Gregoire (Williamsville, NY)
- East Produce Manager of the Year & IFPA Winner - Brad Franklin (Towanda, PA)
- Syracuse/Northeast - Joe Stagnitti (Canastota, NY)
- Fingerlakes/Syracuse West - John Davis (Farmington, NY)
- North County - Kia Lapier (Schroon Lake, NY)
- Rochester - Dave Lambert (Avon, NY)
