Progressive Grocer Names Jeff Noddle 2009 Retailer of the Year
In an historic departure from its traditional Retailer of the Year format that pays tribute to the accomplishments of a specific supermarket organization, Progressive Grocer, a leading voice of the grocery industry for more than 80 years, has named Jeff Noddle, executive chairman of Supervalu, Inc., its 2009 Retailer of the Year.
In explaining the decision to honor Noddle with the magazine’s highest annual award, Michelle Moran, PG’s editor-in-chief remarked, “The reasons for our unconventional choice are many, foremost of which is Jeff’s exemplary lifelong commitment to the food industry, and his strong legacy of leadership and success throughout his seasoned and rewarding career.”
In light of Noddle’s recently announced pending retirement, Meg Major, PG’s executive editor, said the unanimous consensus of Noddle among Progressive Grocer’s editorial team “also makes it the perfect time to give us -- along with the vendor community and Supervalu’s extended family of associates -- a chance to collectively recognize his countless admirable professional, personal and philanthropic achievements. We are delighted to have the opportunity to salute Jeff’s accomplishments as both an outstanding corporate and community leader, as well as his solid record of building partnerships that foster mutual accountability and respect among Supervalu’s many valued independent retail customers, suppliers and associates.”
Noddle will be nationally recognized in the magazine’s October 2009 issue, with articles that explore his strengths and unique qualities.
The magazine confers the Retailer of the Year award annually. Other grocers recognized in the past include The Kroger Co. (2008), Safeway (2007), Meijer (2006), Bashas’ (2005), Food Lion (2004), Hy-Vee (2003) Giant Eagle (2002), Stater Bros. and Ukrop’s (2001).
In explaining the decision to honor Noddle with the magazine’s highest annual award, Michelle Moran, PG’s editor-in-chief remarked, “The reasons for our unconventional choice are many, foremost of which is Jeff’s exemplary lifelong commitment to the food industry, and his strong legacy of leadership and success throughout his seasoned and rewarding career.”
In light of Noddle’s recently announced pending retirement, Meg Major, PG’s executive editor, said the unanimous consensus of Noddle among Progressive Grocer’s editorial team “also makes it the perfect time to give us -- along with the vendor community and Supervalu’s extended family of associates -- a chance to collectively recognize his countless admirable professional, personal and philanthropic achievements. We are delighted to have the opportunity to salute Jeff’s accomplishments as both an outstanding corporate and community leader, as well as his solid record of building partnerships that foster mutual accountability and respect among Supervalu’s many valued independent retail customers, suppliers and associates.”
Noddle will be nationally recognized in the magazine’s October 2009 issue, with articles that explore his strengths and unique qualities.
The magazine confers the Retailer of the Year award annually. Other grocers recognized in the past include The Kroger Co. (2008), Safeway (2007), Meijer (2006), Bashas’ (2005), Food Lion (2004), Hy-Vee (2003) Giant Eagle (2002), Stater Bros. and Ukrop’s (2001).