MGA Lauds Knowlan's Youngquist, Mackenthun

The Minnesota Grocers Association presented Lauri Youngquist, president and COO of Vadnais Heights, Minn.-based Knowlan’s Super Markets, Inc., with its 2014 Outstanding Grocer award and inducted Kim Mackenthun of Waconia, Minn.-based Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, to its Hall of Fame. Jim Rimarcik, founder and chairman emeritus of P.H.T. Systems, was also honored by MGA with its 2014 Outstanding Vendor Award.

The St. Paul-based statewide grocer's trade association presented the trio with their awards at its recent annual conference at Madden’s Resort in Brainerd, Minn., as part of its tradition to annually recognize members who demonstrate excellence, have made significant contributions to the industry, and are highly respected by their peers.

Youngquist's award recognized her innovative vision, leadership skills and advocacy role of incorporating the latest industry technologies while actively supporting the association.

Mackenthun of Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, was inducted into MGA's Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding service and exemplary contributions to Minnesota's food industry. Having earned the respect and admiration for a lifetime of outstanding commitment to the community and food industry, Mackenthun was praised for the dedication he has shown to his employees, his outstanding work ethic, and his commitment to the community of Waconia.

P.H.T. Systems' Rimarcik's award was presented in honor of demonstrated innovation in customer support, excellence in customer service and involvement in MGA, which also recognized his diligent support to retail partners on issues that are important to the industry.

MGA has more than 200 retail members with nearly 1,100 stores statewide, as well as approximately 100 distributors and manufacturers, and works to advance the common interest of all those engaged in any aspect of the food industry. Its member companies employ more than 125,000 union and non-union Minnesotans.