EXPO - Part 1 - 2017

Grocers of the Year Mark & Brett Stinebrink
Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly

wisconsingrocers.com | Expo Issue 2017

Excellence in Operation Honoree
Candie Baker Webster's Marketplace

Excellence in Operation Honoree
Steve Burkhardt Skogen’s Festival Foods

Grocers

of the Year

2017 Mark & Brett Excellence in Operation Honoree
Stinebrink Jason Nilssen Nilssen’s Foods
ex po
Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly Excellence in Operation Honorees
Brett & JoDee Rechek Rechek’s Food Pride
At the Expo:
Vendor of the Year: BPI Color
Tuesday
Reception
Explore and learn.

Connect and network. at the
Yell and Cheer.
Packer Hall
of Fame
Recognize Award Winners.

Details on page 18

Community Service Honorees
Ron & Cathy Lamb Lamb’s Fresh Market

PRSRT STD Wisconsin Grocers Association Community Service Honoree
U.S. POSTAGE PAID 33 East Main Street, Suite 701 • Madison, WI 53703 Troy Vosburgh Skogen’s Festival Foods
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
MADISON, WI
PERMIT NO. 549

2 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 3

4 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue

WGA Board of Directors THE PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE 7 Grocers of the Year Award . . . . . . 28
Mark & Brett Stinebrink
Chairman Marlin Greenfield, Expo #117 & Amazon Transition or Transformation
Skogen’s Festival Foods Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS 8
Vice-Chair man Jeff Maurer Excellence in Operations
Fresh Madison Market, Madison, WI Time for Washington to Serve up Solutions for Honorees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Independent Grocers Candie Baker
Secretary/Treasurer
William Dowling, Roundy’s MEMBER SERVICE UPDATE 12 Webster's Marketplace, Ripon
Supermarkets, Inc., Milwaukee, WI
WGA Expo = Leadership Steve Burkhardt
Immediate Past Chairman
Dave Ryman WGA FOUNDATION 16 Skogen’s Festival Foods
Certco, Madison, WI
Congratulations to the 2017 Future Leaders Jason Nilssen
Greg Cross
SpartanNash, St. Cloud, MN 2017 INNOVATION EXPO: 18 Nilssen’s Foods

Bob Fleming BRAND NEW CITY, Brett & JoDee Rechek
Fox Run Sentry, Waukesha, WI SAME GREAT TIME
Rechek’s Food Pride
Michelle Harrington WGA BOARD 46
Albrecht’s Delafield Market, 52, 53, 55 Community Service Honorees . . . 34
Delafield, WI MEMBER EVENTS AND Ron & Cathy Lamb
HAPPENINGS
Greg Hansen Lamb’s Fresh Market
Hansen’s IGA, Bangor, WI
Troy Vosburgh
Steve Loehr
Kwik Trip, La Crosse, WI Skogen’s Festival Foods

Paul Lucas PROFESSIONAL CARDS 55, 65 Vendor of the Year Award . . . . . . 42
MillerCoors, Milwaukee, WI BPI Color

Jeff McClure ADVERTISERS Federated Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13, 25 Quaker Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
SuperValu, Green Bay,WI Focus on Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36, 39 Retail Data Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Acuity Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 38 Gibbsville Cheese Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Retail PlanIt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Robert Rothove Albert’s Fresh Produce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Great Lakes Coca-Cola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 44 Roundy’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Associated Wholesale Grocers, AllTemp Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Grebe’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 48 Russ Davis Wholesale . . . . . . . . . 3, 25, 36, 56
Kenosha, WI Alpha Baking Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 H Brooks & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 ,33, 55 S&R Egg Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Anderson’s Pure Maple Syrup . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Indianapolis Fruit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 26 San-A-Care, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Rick Roth Anheuser-Busch. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 25, 36, 55 J&B Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 29 Sanchez Sweet Salsa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Great Lakes Coca-Cola, Plover, WI Arctic Glacier Ice of Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Jones Dairy Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Saz’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Associated Wholesale Grocers. . . . . . . . . 2, 24 KeHE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17, 24, 36 Seller’s Publishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Toby Spangler Badger Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 55 Kemps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 36, 54, 56 Shelby Publishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41, 53
Diageo, Madison, WI Baker Tilly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 46 Klondike Cheese Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Shullsburg Creamery. . . . . . . . . 22, 27, 36, 56
Bernatello’s Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 55 Krueger Wholesale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 47 Sparboe Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12, 27, 57
Dave Spiegelhoff Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters . . . 32, 38, 55 Lipari Foods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 24, 36, 56 SpartanNash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 24, 56, 58
Gooseberries, Burlington, WI BPI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 42, 43 Luxury Linens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 54 Society Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 56, 60
Bunzl Distribution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 35 Mehmert Strore Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 37, 39 Supervalu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20, 25, 56
Don Symonds Cedar Crest Ice Cream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 51 Midwest Best Valley Bakers Cooperative
Lipari Foods, Warren, MI Centec Security Systems, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Natural Pure Drinking Water. . . . . . . . 39, 58 Association. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 43
Central City Distributor Co.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Midwest Perishables Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative . . . . . . . . 58
Jeff Tate Chicago Baking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 54 MillerCoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14, 25, 36, 56 Wisconsin Lottery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41, 56
Watertown Piggly Wiggly, Certco Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 55, 59 North Country Business Products . . . . . 36, 39 Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board . . . . . . . . 26
Watertown, WI Climate Pros. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Old Dutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 51 Wisconsin Souvenir Collector . . . . . . . . 29, 41
Crystal Farms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 55 Pan O Gold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 50, 56 Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable
Dan Williamson DBS Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 36, 45, 55 Patrick Cudahy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39, 51 Growers Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Kemps Designer Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 48 PinPoint Sofware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Wisconsin Wins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Ecolite LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Prairie Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 25, 36, 56 Zone Mechanical North, Inc.. . . 27, 36, 56, 57
WGA Staff Emil’s Pizza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Professional Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 36, 40

President/CEO
Brandon Scholz

Executive Vice President
Michelle Kussow
Events Director
Cheryl Lytle
Operations Director
Sarah Decorah
Member Service Representative
Mark Stellpflug
Executive Director,
WGA Education and Scholarship Foundation
Dave Kotwitz

Please help us conserve resources. If you are receiving multiple copies or wish to be removed from this mailing list, please EDITORIAL INFORMATION: Publication dates; March, May, August, December. Please submit all press releases and stories to
call the WGA office at 888/342-5942. Brandon Scholz, Publisher, at the Wisconsin Grocers Association; toll free 888/342-5942; fax 608/244-9030. Wisconsin
Grocer magazine is designed by Lorraine Ortner-Blake, [email protected].
Wisconsin Grocer is published four times a year by:
Wisconsin Grocers Association, 33 East Main Street, Suite 701, Madison, WI 53703 • www.wisconsingrocers.com. ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Please submit all advertising material and questions to Cheryl Lytle, Wisconsin Grocers Association,
33 E Main Street, Suite 701, Madison, WI 53703, call 608/244-7150; fax 608/244-9030; email [email protected].
Toll free 888/342-5942; fax 608/244-9030. Materials in this publication may not be reprinted in any form without permission The Wisconsin Grocer Magazine is printed at Thysse Printing, Oregon, Wisconsin.
of the Wisconsin Grocers Association.
2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 5

6 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

THE PRESIDENT’S
PERSPECTIVE

Brandon Scholz WGA President and CEO

Expo #117 &

Amazon Transition or Transformation

Expo #117 1955: Red Dot Foods, Mrs. Personal Property Tax Repeal
Drenk’s Foods, National
Which one of these Biscuit Co., Creamette Finally!! Businesses across Wisconsin are finally going
statements is true? Company and Oscar Mayer to get relief from a segment of the Personal Property
Co. Tax they pay each year.
(1) Saz’s will be in booth #117
at the WGA’s Expo in Lunch speaker Ted Wendt, the The Coalition to Repeal Wisconsin’s Personal Property Tax, which
October. (2) The 2017 WGA Oscar Mayer Sales Manager was directed by the WGA’s Executive Vice President Michelle
Innovation Expo will celebrate said, “I appreciate the Kussow, worked with the Finance Committee to repeal those items
its 117th continuous run of opportunity to publicly thank defined as machinery. In the weeks and months to come, the WGA
conventions, food shows and you all of you for allowing us will help educate members on what items are exempt from the PPT
Expo’s! Both are true! to participate not only this and how they should prepare for 2018 and beyond.
year the previous years gone
The October 1955 issue of the by. It is important to us to be Many thanks to WGA members who made calls,
Wisconsin Retail Food Dealers allowed to do this because you, sent letters and emails, testified at committee hearings, attended
magazine notes that, as the retailer, make our job Capitol Day and worked to get their legislators to support repeal.
“Addresses, business, and possible. It is necessary for us
social events were aptly to have channels of mortar level to online ordering something that makes any
combined at the 55th annual distribution and you people and delivery, but not an money.
convention of the Wisconsin are those channels. In the food elimination of the grocery
Retail Food Dealers industry of course our success industry as we know. (You can’t Before the deal was
Association held in August in is dependent upon the success thump a melon online.) consummated by the feds,
Stevens Point.” of each of you as an individual word spread quickly that
retailer.” True in 1955. True in There are so many things about Amazon was going to drop the
So, if you do the math noting 2017. the A-WF deal that we can’t bottom of whole foods prices
that the association (which foresee in the short or long- on day one. Clearly, reviewing
had taken on many names and Amazon Transition or term. For example, are those the list of products and the
formats over the years) Transformation 460 stores across the country new pricing structure did not
celebrated the 55th really a distribution network, indicate the prices were cut to
convention, then the food For food industry junkies, or are they 460 stores that the bone. In fact some
association in Wisconsin was haven’t done well over the years products were cut by dimes,
started in 1900. You may it’s likely we will not tire it were losing customers? Will quarters and dollars, others
recall that in 2000, we noted those stores have to be were cut a few cents and in
that the WGA celebrated its talking about, analyzing, remodeled or rebuilt to other cases, prices were
100th anniversary. accommodate Amazon returns? increased. While Amazon may
dissecting or probing the look to cut prices in the
Certainly the industry and the And what will Amazon do to future, the out-of-the gate
WGA, as well as our Amazon-Whole Foods (A- train the Whole Foods work move seem to be geared to
conventions have changed force on how to take back hanging on to current Whole
dramatically over 117 years. WF) deal. books, clothes, watches, shoes, Foods customers (60% of
The WGA’s 10-year tires and more if an Amazon Whole Foods customers are
Innovation Expo format has There is no limit to the customer brings an item to the already Amazon Prime
evolved not only into an number of opinions and store and expects a credit to be members.).
expanded and sold-out trade studies bandied about as to the issued. Where are they going to
show, but more education impact of this deal. put returns that are brought So before we get too wrapped
seminars, industry speakers back that have to be held until up in calling this deal a top-
and association business are a There are many experts in the they are sent back to the to-bottom transformation of
part of a value-packed day- industry as well as wannabe mother ship? (Target has the grocery biz, let’s keep it at
and-a-half. experts who believe that hundreds of square feet the transition level until
Amazon has transformed or is dedicated to return section.) something really dramatic
It’s interesting to note who in the process of transforming While a product return system happens.
some of the sponsors were in the grocery industry. There are may work eventually, it’s not
others who believe this deal
creates a transition in the food
industry from the bricks-and-

2017 Summer Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 7

Government Affairs

By Peter Time for Washington to
J. Larkin Serve up Solutions for
President & Independent Grocers
CEO, National
Grocers
Association

President Trump’s first year in office is quickly look to for revenue is the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method
of accounting.
passing, however much of Washington
Prior to the release of this framework, NGA participated
continues to be consumed with high-profile in a roundtable discussion at the White House on our
industry’s priorities for tax reform, including lowering the
turnovers within the Administration, leaks, tax rate across the board, maintaining the interest expense
deduction, creating parity between pass-through entities
and an ongoing Russia investigation. and C-Corporations, preserving LIFO, rejecting a border
adjustment tax, and permanently repealing the estate tax.
Despite this, lawmakers have been pursuing an aggressive It’s expected that the Administration will take that
policy agenda, but continue to face slipping deadlines on feedback and incorporate it into a more detailed
things such as healthcare reform and tax reform. framework by September. After that, the tax-writing
committees in the House and Senate will be charged with
As always, there’s no shortage of issues before Congress hammering out the rest of the details.
that affect the independent supermarket industry. Below
are policy issues that our government relations team is Rep. Kevin Brady (R-TX), chair of the House Ways and
actively engaged in on behalf of independent grocers: Means Committee, has said he hopes to have a package on
his desk by the end of the year.
Durbin Amendment/Debit Card Swipe Fee Reform
FDA Menu Labeling Regulations
This May, the independent supermarket industry and
entire retail community scored a major victory after There wasn’t much downtime in between the menu
House Republican leadership announced lawmakers would labeling regulation being delayed to May 7, 2018 and
no longer include a provision in the Financial CHOICE our attempts to find a solution that creates the flexibility
Act (H.R. 10) that would have repealed debit swipe fee needed for grocers to feasibly comply. On the regulatory
reform. front, NGA submitted written comments to the FDA
highlighting industry’s concerns with the proposed menu
NGA worked tirelessly to help ensure this provision was labeling rule. NGA also worked with member companies
removed from the measure and played a leading role in the to file comments with the agency as well.
coalition to defeat the efforts. This fall, we’ll be keeping an
eye out as Congress takes up its appropriations bills to Additionally, in July, the House Energy and Commerce
ensure that no policy riders are attached that will repeal Committee held a markup on the Common Sense
the Durbin amendment. However, our victory this spring Nutrition Disclosure Act (H.R. 772) and approved the
means it’s unlikely that Congress will be eager to address bill. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate,
the issue again any time in the foreseeable future. and we continue to encourage our legislative champions
to push for a floor vote in both the House and Senate
Tax Reform this fall.

One of President Trump’s largest promises on the It’s an honor for NGA’s government relations
campaign trail included modernizing the tax code –
something that hasn’t been done in over 30 years when team to spend our time fighting on behalf of
Ronald Reagan was in office.
the independent supermarket industry.
In July, Republican leaders from the Administration, the
House, and the Senate released a long-awaited document In Wisconsin alone, independent grocers account for over
that outlined where Congress and the White House hope $3 billion in sales and are responsible for creating over
to go on tax reform. A provision that was not included in 20,000 jobs. With such a large economic impact in both
the document: the border adjustment tax (BAT). With the the state and the country, your voice matters!
exclusion of the BAT, it does leave questions as to where
Congress will look for the revenue offset to any tax cuts
included in reform. One of the places that Congress could

8 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

Play a part in the success of
WGA’s Government Affairs Program

Contributions to the WGA’s Why should I The WGA serves as the eyes, ears
Government Affairs Program contribute to the and feet at the state capitol for
have a high return on investment WGA’s Political those in the retail food industry.
and result in numerous Support Program?
significant victories that benefit On a daily basis, WGA is monitoring
grocers. When the WGA Political legislation, watching agency activities and
Support Program is strong, actively engaging in the legislative process
Most recently this session, the WGA was the WGA has the opportunity to prevent costly legislation and
instrumental in two issues that will save grocers to help elect and re-elect burdensome regulations from being
hours of time complying with labor laws and candidates that are pro- imposed on the grocery industry.
millions of dollars in personal property tax: business and pro-grocery.
The WGA’s Government Affairs Program
• Effective June 2017 work permits are no When candidates that support has a high return on investment and has
longer required for 16- and 17-year-olds. the grocery industry are elected resulted in hundreds of legislative
Permits are still required for 14- and 15- to the Legislature, we are able to victories— saving the retail food industry
year-olds. (2017 Wisconsin Act 11) prevent harmful legislation that millions of dollars and cutting red tape.
could affect your bottom line like
• Effective tax year 2018, machinery and bottle deposit bills and minimum THIS IS NOT ENOUGH
tools will no longer be subject to wage increases. In addition, the
Wisconsin’s personal property tax. In Political Support Program allows It is critical that WGA has a strong
addition, businesses will no longer need to WGA to elect candidates who political arm as well to ensure the right
report computers and computer related will support and help to make
equipment on the Statement of Personal law legislation that is beneficial candidates are elected. A strong
Property due in March of each year. to the industry such as alcohol government affairs program coupled with a
(Subject to passage of 2017-2019 tastings and regulatory reforms. solid political program ensures success.
Wisconsin State Budget, stay tuned to
WGA communications for details).

Make a Financial Contribution Today!

Please send this form to: WISCONSIN GROCERS ASSOCIATION 33 East Main Street, Suite 701 | Madison WI 53703 | 888.342-5942
or email [email protected]

Yes! I would like to make a corporate contribution. Contact Information

Amount of Donation NAME
ADDRESS
p Platinum $5,000 p Gold $2,500 p Silver $1,000
p Bronze $500 p Other _______

Yes! I would like to make a personal contribution. CITY STATE ZIP
PHONE FAX
Amount of Donation EMAIL

p $1,000 p $500 p $250 p $100 p Other _______

Payment Method NAME AS IT APPEARS ON YOUR CREDIT CARD

p Please make your personal check payable to WGA Political Support CREDIT CARD NUMBER E X P. D AT E
Program or
SIGNATURE SECURITY CODE
p Make your personal check payable to WGA Government Affairs
Program

p MasterCard/Visa, please fill out form to right.

For more information and/or to contribute online, please visit wisconsingrocers.com/contribute.

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 9

10 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 11

MEMBER SERVICE UPDATE

WGA Expo = Leadership

There are many go so far as to say it is Here is the crux of the as you could. That’s where
likely the core reason case I am making to you the WGA Innovation
reasons why why you should attend Expo comes in! By

Wisconsin’s Grocers the WGA Expo. That today: if you are devoting attending the Expo you

Association Members reason is leadership! are making a conscious
decision to step away
should consider Why do I suggest that the majority of your time from your store for a day
leadership is the core each day in your store or two, and choosing to
attending this year’s reason you should putting out fires and allow yourself to slow
consider attending this dealing with the daily down a bit and focus on
WGA Innovation Expo year’s Expo? The reason tasks associated with the big picture as it relates
is straightforward, but it’s running your store, you to your store. Because
and many of those easy to lose sight of due may not be leading your let’s face it, when we
to the myriad issues and store as effectively as focus solely on the day-
reasons have been distractions that vie for a you could. to-day it’s easy to lose
retail grocer’s attention sight of the big picture
articulated in this throughout a typical day. and of your leadership
If you are an owner, store role.
Mark Stellpflug magazine. manager, or department

WGA Member You’ve been exposed to
Service Representative those reasons in the

communications you have received from the

WGA in recent months. Today I am going to

suggest to you there is an overriding reason

you should attend this year’s Expo. And I will head you know all too well how the events of The Expo provides you with the perfect

a typical day in a venue to focus on leadership, and the big

EGGS at the EXPO grocery picture! For example, consider for a moment
supermarket vie you decide to attend one of the informative
Wednesday, October 18, 2017| 8:00 AM for your time and seminars at this year’s Expo, and the

attention. But the knowledge you gain positively influences

Booth 112 fact remains, if you your approach to your management role. Or
are an owner or maybe you see a new product or service on

manager your the Trade Show floor, that you didn’t even

primary job know existed, that will enhance sales or

responsibility is efficiency in your store. Or maybe you

leadership of the connect with a fellow retailer, and you find a

team of employees new friend or mentor, and that relationship

For 60 years, family-owned Sparboe Farms has been a and facilities under helps you both professionally and personally
your supervision. for a lifetime. Or maybe you simply relax at

reliable source of eggs to grocers throughout Wisconsin. Here is the crux of one of the social functions during the Expo,
the case I am and you return to your store refreshed and
From all of us at Sparboe Companies, we thank our friends making to you recharged.
at the Wisconsin Grocers Association for many years of partnership today: if you are
devoting the When I’m on the road each week as your
and for the opportunity to supply high-quality, safe, majority of your Member Service Representative I often visit
and affordable eggs to feed Wisconsin’s families. with a retailer or manager that indicates they

Contact Tom for all your fresh shell egg needs. time each day in have never been to the Expo because they are
your store putting too busy running their store. I totally

out fires and understand where you are coming from

dealing with the because I lived that life for over 35 years. But

daily tasks I’d ask you to consider this for just a moment

associated with or two: are you, as the person responsible

running your for leading your company or department

1.800.BEST EGG | www.sparboe.com store, you may not into the future, availing yourself of all of
be leading your the resources available to truly excel in

Sales Contact: Tom Droege • Wayzata, MN • 952.221.0569 store as effectively your leadership role?

12 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 13

14 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 15

FOUNDATION

Congratulations to the 2017 Wisconsin Grocers Association
Future Leaders
Education and
Scholarship

FOUNDATION

David Kotwitz Congratulations to Nicole Day, Cambridge Piggly Wiggly PALLET OF PRODUCT
Executive Director WGA the 2017 Future SILENT AUCTION
Education and Scholarship Leaders who attended Deanna Drost, Watertown Piggly Wiggly
Bid high and bid often to
Foundation the 2017 Leadership Bryce Haessly, Mainstreet Piggly Wiggly purchase items from your
favorite vendors to re-sell at
Institute. The Mykaela Harrington, Albrecht’s Delafield
Sentry your store.
following leaders will receive their diploma
Heather Helgestad, Main Street Piggly This is a Win-Win-Win
during the Chairmans’ Banquet at the Expo. Wiggly situation.

Watch for full Leadership recap and profiles Eric Hill, Festival Foods, Janesville Products are donated by vendors to the
WGA’s Education & Scholarship
of future leaders in the winter issue of the Brian Kenner, Metcalfe’s Market, Foundation to show their support to the
Wauwatosa grocery industry, the Foundation places
Wisconsin Grocer magazine. products on a silent auction and Retailer
Tegan Krueger, Main Street Piggly Wiggly bid on products at discount to take back to
Taylor Albrecht, Metcalfe’s Market, their store and profit from their sale. We all
Madison Kayla Rohrpasser, Metcalfe’s Market, win! Take a look at this year’s donations on
Wauwatosa page 49.
Peter Ballweg, Metcalfe’s Market, Madison
Sarah Schmitt, Metcalfe’s Market, Madison
Michelle Baxter, Fox Bros. Piggly Wiggly,
Hartland Justin Witzeling, Metcalfe’s Market,
Madison
Joseph Burns, Festival Foods, Madison
Brian Wohlfeil, Watertown Piggly Wiggly
Kameron Casper, Cowley’s Piggly Wiggly,
Edgerton/Milton Veronica Zinkle, Zinkle’s Piggly Wiggly

Zach Chandler, Metcalfe’s Market, Patrick Zwank, Metcalfe’s Market,
Madison Madison

and Scholarship Founda Join us for a Day in the Field on

DayA Thursday, November 9th at Milford

WGA Education in thetion Hills Hunt Club, Lake Mills,

All proceeds benefit the Wisconsin. Activities include trap
WGA Education and Scholarship
shoot flurry and lunch and, in the
Foundation.
afternoon, we divide up into teams
Wisconsin Grocers Association
and hunt for pheasant and chukars. Millford Hills Hunt Club
Education and
Scholarship Bring your hunting dog too! W5670 French Road | Johnson Creek, Wisconsin

FOUNDATION November 9, 201710:30 am to 4:30 pm Includes:

• Flurry Contest for Best Shooter
• Lunch

• Field Hunt with Guide and Dog

for up to two pheasants and two chukar per

hunter; includes pickup and cleaning.

Registration Deadline: Add-ons are available at your expense:
• Gun rental $25
Friday,

November 3, 2017 • Clay loads $6.50 per box
• Hunt loads $16 per box

For more information please contact Dave Kotwitz, WGA Education & Scholarship Foundation, (608) 931-9278 or [email protected] or

Sarah Decorah, WGA, [email protected].

16 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 17

The Wisconsin Grocers Association Presents

2017 October 17 & 18, 2017

ex po Hyatt Regency and KI Convention Center
GREEN BAY

“I was amazed at the number of doors
opened to me from leads I gained at
the WGA’s Innovation Expo!”

Jeff Gudex, Saz’s BBQ Products

ATTEND THE

WGA 2017 Innovation Expo

• Explore and learn. Discover new technology, trends, and information
at timely seminars

• Connect and network. Meet your grocery friends and make new connections
in the grocery industry throughout Wisconsin

• Yell and Cheer. Enter your best bagger or choose
a favorite contestant to cheer on at the Great Wisconsin Bag-Off

• Recognize Award Winners.

Congratulate 2017 honorees at the Chairman’s Awards Banquet including:

• Grocer of the Year • Vendor of the Year • Excellence In Operations Honorees

2017

• Community Service Honorees • Diamond Sponsors

• Win Prizes!

NEW Trade Show Bingo for $1000 cash!

Plus NEW Trade Show Cash! $100

winners announced regularly. At the Expo:
You must be present to win!
Tuesday
Pallet of Product Foundation

Fundrasier Retailers submit Reception
sealed bids for pallets of

products. at the

“The Expo was very Packer Hall
productive, I attend of Fame
many state association
conventions and can Tuesday, October 17, 7 to 9 pm
honestly say that the WGA event is the
best in the country with the educational Attendees must be on the bus to enter Lambeau Field.
sessions, guest speakers and well Buses will begin boarding at the Hyatt at 6:30 pm.
attended trade show.”

David Krueger, Designer Greetings

Register today at wisconsingrocers.com

18 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Innovation Expo:

Brand New City, Same Great Time

Written exclusively for the Wisconsin Grocers Association by Kat Boogaard

This year’s Expo in Packers venue itself—the KI Convention Center. Curious about how to reduce the energy
Country is sure to be a costs in your store? This seminar will cover
touchdown. “I had a chance to see the KI Convention it all—including newer technologies that
Center when we toured it, and they really are beginning to crop up in the grocery
It’s the most wonderful time of year— industry, such as solar energy.
WGA’s annual Innovation Expo is fast did a great job with the recent
approaching! Packed full with networking renovations,” shares Dave • Hiring and Retaining Employees: If you
opportunities, educational seminars, a Kotwitz, WGA’s Foundation struggle to break away from your store to
massive trade show, an awards dinner, and a Executive Director, “It’s really even attend the Expo, this seminar is for
crowd-favorite grocery bagging competition, going to be a great venue.” you. You’ll learn best practices for hiring,
you don’t want to miss this year’s event on training, and then keeping the very best
October 17 and 18 at the KI Convention And, of course, a trip to Green Bay wouldn’t employees in your store.
Center in Green Bay. be complete without some strong Packers
spirit—a theme that will carry through the • Grocery Technology: We live in an ever-
“This is our biggest event of the year,” Expo. “We thought we’d like to have that changing world. And, much like all other
explains Cheryl Lytle, WGA’s Events football influence somehow at our Expo,” technology, grocery technology is
Director. “It’s a wonderful explains Lytle, “And, that’s why we’re advancing. Attend this seminar to hear all
opportunity to get so many hosting our Tuesday evening reception at about the need-to-know trends in the
people from the industry under Lambeau Field in the Hall of Fame.” industry—such as ecommerce—and keep
one roof to share ideas, your store current with the constantly
network, and celebrate everything During that reception, attendees can enjoy changing times.
that’s happening in the grocery drinks, appetizers, and networking amidst
industry.” Green Bay Packers artifacts and Other educational seminars will touch on
memorabilia—and, of course, a few reinventing the dairy department, marketing
Perhaps you’re planning to attend the Expo Lombardi trophies. fresh items, and so much more. “Education
for the first time. Or, maybe you’ve been is what we hope attracts retailers out of their
There’s Still Plenty to Learn stores,” shares Lytle, “It’s very economical
dozens of times before. Either way, for our seminars. You just can’t find this
rest assured, there are plenty of Education has always been a core pillar of much education for this low price.”
new additions to enjoy. “It’s the Expo, and that isn’t changing this year.
exciting to have a new venue, new In fact, an additional seminar has been Indeed, increased knowledge is one of the
locale, and new things to see,” explains added—which means the event now offers a biggest benefits you’ll gain by attending the
Marlin Greenfield, WGA’s Board Chairman. total six hours of amazing educational Expo, so you don’t want to miss these
opportunities. incredibly enlightening and helpful
What do you need to know to make this discussions.
Expo the best one yet? Here are all of the “Our goal in developing educational
must-have details about this year’s exciting seminars is to have an element that Gear Up for a Bigger and Better
event. benefits the grocer when they go — Tradeshow
a takeaway that they can implement to
Grocers Take Over Titletown better their store, their bottom line, and The tradeshow is another favorite aspect of
even their life,” says Lytle. the event. And, with over 140 booths, this
This year, the Expo will be hosted in Green year’s show is bigger and better than ever
Bay—making it the event’s very first trip to With that in mind, the Expo boasts before.
the land of green and gold since 2006. And, seminars on a wide variety of industry-
it’s a move that many are looking forward to. relevant topics to help grocers stay “I love going to the tradeshow and talking
competitive. “Whether you’re competing to the vendors, sponsors, and manufacturers
“It’s great to move the location occasionally against a big box neighbor or another that we all use,” says Kotwitz, “It’s one of
so we’re closer to other grocers who may independent down the street, educating few opportunities we get to talk to them
have had much longer travel in the past,” yourself will give you those solutions to face-to-face.”
says Greenfield. continue being competitive,” Lytle adds.
“It’s a great opportunity to maintain and
In addition to moving a little further north, So, what topics can you expect to be covered reinforce relationships with the vendor
event organizers are also excited about the at this year’s Expo? Here’s just a taste of the community,” adds Greenfield, “Sometimes
educational opportunities you’re in for: we take these business partners for granted,

• Reduce Your Use, Improve Your Profits:

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 19

20 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

and the tradeshow is a great time to show out of the trenches periodically to get fresh WGA Innovation Expo:
them our appreciation.” ideas and improve your operations.” What’s the Best Part?

While the tradeshow provides the chance to “When I started to go to the Expo, that’s With so many awesome pieces to this one
shake hands with the people who help keep the first time I got to meet so many event, it’s tough to zero in on the single
your store up and running, it’s also an different people, and those relationships best part about it. Here’s what a few WGA
awesome opportunity to find out about all have lasted all the way through,” echoes key players had to say about their favorite
of the new products and solutions that are Kotwitz. aspects of the Innovation Expo:
available. Since the tradeshow isn’t a buying
show, you’re able to learn more about what Celebrate the Industry “Without a doubt, networking with
interests you in a casual, low-pressure other grocers. It’s great fun to share
environment. Of course, those standard Expo aspects that ideas and hear stories from others. The
everybody knows and loves aren’t going Great Wisconsin Bag-Off is a close
“Ours is a networking and sampling anywhere either. second!”
show,” says Lytle, “So, the pressure is off. ~ Marlin Greenfield, WGA Board
You can leave your checkbook at home. The fast-paced and high-energy Great Chairman
You’re really getting to take a look at Wisconsin Bag-Off, a treasured WGA
the products and services and ask tradition since 1988, will happen right “I enjoy going to the tradeshow floor
questions about them without the before the Chairman’s Banquet. itself and walking around to see people
pressure of having to buy from people.” I haven’t seen in a long time. It’s the
Once again, competitors from across the one time of year when you get
While plenty of business gets done on the state will represent their stores and bag everybody in the same room, and it’s
tradeshow floor, it isn’t all work and no groceries at lightning-fast speeds in attempt nice to go form person to person and
play. There’s plenty of fun to be had as well! to win the $500 grand prize, as well as the catch up on what’s been going on.”
opportunity to advance to the National ~ Dave Kotwitz, WGA Foundation
With random drawings done every half Best Bagger Championship in Las Vegas. Executive Director
hour for $100 tradeshow cash winners, as
well as a bingo card that attendees can fill “Win or lose, it’s really a great time,” adds “The people. I’m happy to see everyone,
up for the chance to win a large grand Greenfield. whether it’s old friends or I’m putting a
prize, attending the tradeshow really pays face to the name of someone I recently
off—quite literally. Immediately following the competition is worked with. It often feels like a big
another outstanding opportunity to family reunion!”
“I predict we’ll have even more money to celebrate the grocery industry—the ~ Cheryl Lytle, WGA Events Director
give out than we did last year,” adds Lytle. Chairman’s Reception and the Chairman’s
Awards Banquet. We’ll See You There!
Connect With Old Friends
(and Make Some New Ones) During the banquet, awards will be Needless to say, there’s so much to look
presented to individuals who have done big forward to at this year’s Innovation Expo on
Another undeniable benefit of the Expo? things in the grocery industry, their stores, October 17 and 18 at the KI Convention
The chance to forge relationships with and their own communities throughout the Center in Green Bay.
other people in the industry—whether past year. Awards are given in various
you’ve known them for years or just met categories, including Excellence in And, this one-of-a-kind industry event
them that day. Operations, Community Service, Vendor of wouldn’t be half as fun if it weren’t for the
the Year, and Grocer of the Year. incredible people like you that attend. We
“It’s so helpful to get out and run into honestly can’t wait to see you in Titletown!
other grocers that have the same problems When the overall spirit of the entire Expo is
and challenges that you do,” says support, encouragement, and collaboration, If you’d like more information about
Greenfield, “You always get new ideas. It’s the awards ceremony serves as the perfect the Expo and registration, visit
amazing how many people have learned capstone to the event. You don’t want to www.wisconsingrocers.com/innovationexpo.
something about a specific problem you miss this chance to honor and applaud the See you soon!
haven’t solved yet. You really need to get major accomplishments of your industry
peers!

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 21

22 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

Innovation Expo Schedule

Tuesday, October 17 Wednesday, October 18

Registration: Tuesday: 11 am to 5 pm Fresh Marketing 8:30 am
Industry Keynote 9:30 am
Wednesday: 8 am to 3:30 pm, 5 to 7 pm
WGA Grocery Industry Summit 10:45 am
Exhibit Set-Up: Annual WGA Membership Meeting

Tuesday: Noon to 10 pm • Wednesday: 8 am to Noon Wisconsin Grocery Industry Trade Show
Noon–4 pm
Display Hours: Wednesday: Noon to 4 pm
Dismantle Hours: Wednesday 4 pm–7 pm Great Wisconsin Bag-Off Contest 4–5 pm

Reduce Your Use, Improve Your Profits 12:30 pm
Re-Inventing the Dairy Department 1:30 pm

Hiring and Retaining Employees Best Practices 2:30 pm
Grocery Technology 3:30 pm

Innovation Happy Hour 7–9 pm Chairman’s Reception 5 pm
Chairman’s Awards Banquet 6:30 pm
Lambeau Field, bus transportation will be provided
Heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails

“The WGA trade show is great because of all of the Tuesday, October 17 talent. This presentation will help you
positive energy. It seemed that all of the grocers that avoid the pitfalls of employment
12:30 pm Reduce Your Use, actions. It will specifically review the
visited with us were looking Improve Your Profits necessary documentation, hiring
for progressive ways to practices, and termination
improve their stores for their From margin, profitability and procedures. It will also include
customers and employees. customer experience, grocery store additional available resources and tips
WGA ROCKS!" owners can make an impact on their to avoid litigation.
business by taking advantage of
Steve Mueller, BPI Color energy-efficient equipment and 3:30 pm Grocery Technology
“As we complete our multi-state trade programs.
show season I can tell you that there is A panel of experts gather to share
absolutely none better than the WGA.” 1:30 pm Re-Inventing the their information on e-commerce,
Dairy Department Cindy Sorenson, grocery apps, loyalty programs, and
Don Symonds, Lipari Foods Midwest Dairy Association cyber security that should be on your
mind to compete in today’s market.
ACCOMMODATIONS Grocers who have undertaken dairy
Hyatt Regency & KI Center retinention projects have doubled Wednesday, October 18
the amount of time a shopper spent
333 Main Street Green Bay, WI 54301 in-aisle and added an additional 2.5 8:30 am Fresh Marketing
dairy products to their cart. Updating Rick Stein, VP Fresh Food
Hotel Reservations your dairy department can include Food Marketing Institute
(920) 432-1234 changes to the flow, signage, new
de’cor packages, or to a complete Consumers are looking for fresh. In
$127 Room Rate store remodel. Walk away from this this tough environment , where sales
Block held until September 15, 2017. session with ideas that can be growth is challenging, the “perimeter”
implemented in your dairy department continues to out-perform the rest of
today, tomorrow and the future. the store. What are the consumer top
trends in fresh and how can you align
2:30 pm Hiring and Retaining with their needs to fuel your growth?
Employees Best Practices Executing a fresh food strategy!
Becky Rauen, Federated Insurance Categories include produce, meat,
seafood, bakery and deli-fresh
Learn about triple protection options prepared.
approach that your peers are using
successfully to recruit and train top 9:30 am Watch for Updates!

LEARN MORE Contact Cheryl Lytle [email protected] or (608) 210 – 3303

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 23

ED WHOLESALE DIAMOND SPONSORS

A S S OCIAT Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc (AWG) is the nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler
D to independently owned supermarkets, serving over 1,100 member companies and over
GROCERS 3,800 locations throughout 36 states from 9 full-line wholesale Divisions.
E
The consolidated run-rate sales for AWG are approximately $10 billion. In addition to its cooperative
R wholesale operations, the company also operates subsidiary companies which provide certain real
TAIL E R E estate and supermarket development services, retail accounting, print and digital marketing services,
OWN and wholesale supply of heath and beauty care, general merchandise, specialty/international foods
and pharmaceutical products.

For more information, visit www.awginc.com or follow @AWGCorporate on Twitter,
or contact Mr. Wayne Hall at 608-347-7318, [email protected].

Thousands of brands. One name.

At KeHE, we stock the brands that consumers crave and
bring you the new products that are on-trend and on top of
regular weekly purchases. That means more time in-store
for your customers, more satisfaction in the aisles and a
healthy bottom line. www.kehe.com • 800-995-5343

BOOTHS 20-24

While distributing great food brands is their specialty, Lipari
Foods offers so much more.

Lipari Foods is also committed to providing exceptional customer
service and innovative solutions for their customers including
unmatched store planning and merchandising.

20,000+ everyday items & 3,000+ national & exclusive brands in over 10 categories

• Deli • Dairy • Bakery • Confections • Packaging • Specialty Grocery • Food Service • Frozen • Meat

BOOTHS 200s-300s • Seafood • Convenience Food & Beverage

At SpartanNash, we care deeply about Visit SpartanNash.com for more
preserving independent business. Our information or call our Mid-West
unwavering support for independent Region development team:
retailers has been built on principles of
consistency, innovation, and growth. Bryan Halvorson (701) 330–3303

Let us be your trusted business Roger Delemeester (989) 245–0337
partner.
Greg Cross (320) 292–0382

Doug Fox (419) 464–6528

24 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

DIAMOND SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

Bunzl Distribution With every bottle, can and keg of beer we
produce, comes our pledge of excellence.
is the leading supplier of disposable paper and plastic
packaging supplies to the retail grocery industry, As our brewmaster says, “It’s not enough for our beer to be
including self-distributing chains and wholesalers. perfect. For the people at every one of our breweries, every
We offer more than 60,000 items, including basic
tissue paper, plastic grocery bags, bakery boxes and last drop of our beer has to be perfectly Miller.”
deli trays. We also deliver the largest selection of hot,
cold and dual-ovenable Home Meal Replacement (HMR) containers. After all, we make more than beer.
Our commitment to our supermarket customers is strong. We strive for We make Miller Time!
excellence everyday to ensure our customers receive the most appropriate BOOTH 205 & 207
products or supplies to fit their specific needs.

888-997-5959 • www.bunzlusa.com

BOOTHS 401 TO 415

Since its founding more than 150 years ago, Anheuser-Busch has been a leader in BOOTH 107
the beer industry. With nearly 50 percent of the U.S. domestic market share,
a portfolio of more than 40 brands, and 12 breweries strategically located
throughout the United States,

Anheuser-Busch has the resources in place to enhance beer
industry volume, while continuing to meet the
changing needs of today’s consumer.

BOOTH 406 & 408

YOUR LOCAL PARTNER FOR FRESH PRODUCE

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Russ Davis Wholesale, Inc. Tyler Neu

1940 Ridgeway St. Director of Business Development

Hammond, WI 54015 CELL 952.529.0430
800-214-4981 [email protected]

BOOTH 416 www.crazyfreshproduce.com | www.russdaviswholesale.com

BOOTHS 14, 15, 16

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 25

GOLD SPONSORS

Are you getting the most from your dairy and deli
cases? We offer support in marketing, merchandising,
promotions, sourcing, and other services. For more
information, visit

wisconsincheeseretail.com

BOOTH 25, 26, 27

SILVER SPONSORS

DBS ROUP DBS Group provides store planning, YOUR FULL SERVICE
architectural & engineering, preconstruction PRODUCE DISTRIBUTOR,
Design-Build Solutions and construction services to grocery retailers, proudly offers you:
developers and wholesalers across the Upper
2700 National Drive, Suite 101 Midwest, and has decades of experience in • Over 4,000 produce SKUs daily. • Over 150 refrigerated trucks monitored 365 days a
Onalaska, WI 54650 delivering successful ground-up, store year with the strictest cold-chain management.
608.381.6007 | www.dbsg.com expansion and store renovation projects. • Over 500 Certified Organic produce and fresh cut
SKUs daily. • Retail Experienced Sales, Merchandising &
BOOTH 108 Stop by our booth to learn how DBS Marketing Team
Group can add value to your next • Unmatched customer service in 14 plus states
grocery project. in the Midwest area.

indyfruit.com • mygardencut.com • 800-377-2425 • BOOTH 123 & 124

Great Lakes Coca-Cola is proud Quality local products and services to retail and foodservice channels
to be an active participant in the 13200 43rd St. NE | St. Michael Minnesota
Wisconsin Grocers Association. 763.497.3913 • BOOTH 115

We value the support and appreciate
the hard work of the grocers who help
us provide a simple moment of refreshment
to our consumers throughout Wisconsin.
The Coca-Cola Company exists to benefit
and refresh everyone it touches.

BOOTH 505 & 507

BOOTH 515

BOOTH 101
26 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

SILVER SPONSORS

Family Farmer Owned WISCONSIN CHEESE Crafted in Wisconsin

1-800-533-9594 • www.shullsburgcreamery.com • BOOTH 114

Welcome to Green Bay! WGA
Booth 110 ENDORSED

www.olddutchfoods.com SERVICE PROVIDER

Bakers of Country Hearth and Village Hearth Breads and Buns We also offer GRO-SURE, an outstanding property/casualty program designed specifically for
food retailers. So whether you own a neighborhood convenience store or a large supermarket

chain, it’s worth checking out what Society has to offer!

Your association-endorsed insurance provider for workers compensation.

150 Camelot Drive, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
888-5-SOCIETY (888-576-2438) • societyinsurance.com

http://www.facebook.com/SocietyInsurance • BOOTH 113

PAN-O-GOLD Baking Co. Thank you, Wisconsin Grocers!

1000 Wilburn Road • Sun Prairie WI 53590 • (608)834-1816 At Sparboe Companies, we share WGA members’ values conducting our business with
unwavering ethics that build trust. Thank you for choosing Sparboe Companies eggs!
www.countryhearthbreads.com
Sales Contacts: Tom Droege, Area Sales Manager

1.800.BEST.EGG • www.Sparboe.com BOOTH 112

Email [email protected] BOOTH 522

BOOTH 105 Wholesale distribution of high-quality products for the baking and

foodservice industries; including ingredients, thaw-and-bake items,

BAKERS packaging, equipment and other supplies to retail, wholesale,
SUPPLY
in-store supermarket bakeries, donut shops, pizza restaurants and

manufacturers, candy stores and institutional foodservice operators located in Wisconsin and Michigan’s

Helping Wisconsin grocers prevent Upper Peninsula. Offering warehousing for dry, cold or frozen storage; temperature controlled
481,368 items from expiring and counting.
transportation solutions and nationwide freight forwarding.
Call us today for a free consultation.
Valley Bakers Cooperative Association
262-458-2470 x101 920-560-3200 [email protected] valleybakers.com
datecheckpro.com | [email protected]
BOOTH 10 THROUGH 13

2327 B Pewaukee Road
Waukesha, WI 53188
(262) 347-4180

www.ZoneMechanical.com

• Refrigeration/HVAC Installation and Service
• Construction Sales and Installation • Complete Turn Key
Master Service Technicians on call 24 hours/7 days a week

920.226-0578 • [email protected] | 920.627.0084 • [email protected] We Focus On Your Success
www.cleaningstuff.com
BOOTH 111

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 27

The Wisconsin Grocers Association honors the recipient of the

2017 Grocer of the Year Award

2017

Mark & Brett
Stinebrink

Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly

The Stinebrink family business started in 1974 when Edward Mark Stinebrink was chosen
Stinebrink, a grocery veteran, and his sons, Mark, 22 at the time, and to have his photo on a
Brett, 19, opened their first store in Lake Geneva. In 1981, they Milwaukee Brewer game
ticket in 2013.
opened a brand new Lake
Geneva Pick ‘n Save and party where
purchased their second store customers can win
in 1990 in Delavan. Mark game tickets, Mark,
and his son, Matt, opened Brett and the entire
two Kenosha locations in Stinebrink family
2010 and 2014. makes sure their
customers are
According to their treated like family.

nomination, “they Surely some of the Stinebrink’s success is due to their dedicated
employees. This is clearly illustrated in the fact that two employees
deserve recognition for all that they have done with recently retired with a
combined years of service of
their work in the grocery industry and community over 70 years, another employee
is going on 43 years of
the last 40 plus years.” service and several others
have been with the
The Stinebrink’s are well Stinebrink’s for three
decades! The Stinebrink’s’
known, both in the grocery support and commitment to
their store associates at all of
industry as well as in the their locations have paved Mark and Mary with Governor Walker during a WGA Capitol Day
the way for this longevity event.
communities in which they that speaks for itself.

live. They invest countless The WGA has also
recognized the Stinebrink’s dedication to their employees and
hours and financial support communities by awarding Mark with the 2010 WGA Community
Service Award. The Stinebrink’s are long time members of the WGA
to many charitable and and have attended countless events over the years and are always ready
and willing to answer the call when their support is needed. Other
community organizations, honors bestowed upon the Stinebrink’s include: Lake Geneva Chamber
Outstanding Citizen Award, and two recognitions from the Walworth
including V.I.P. Services (of Brett Stinebrink working in the bakery. The photo is from County Fair, Friend of 4H Award and Honorary Fair Marshal.
Community Shopper article celebrating Stinebrink’s 40th
which they were named

2007 Employer of the Year), Anniversary.

Lake Geneva and Delavan

Police and Fire Departments, Walworth County 4-H, Lake Geneva

YMCA, local schools, churches and food pantries; the impressive list

goes on. But the event they are most proud of and also their largest, is

their annual Big

Brothers Big

Sisters golf

outing; 2017

being their 25th

year for the

event.

Knowing that the

1974 Grand Opening Photo: Mark, Brett and Edward Stinebrink customer comes
first, the

Stinebrink’s offer

numerous events and giveaways throughout the year. Whether it’s Fall

Fest or the annual Easter Egg Hunt for the kids or the Packer Tailgate

28 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

BE SAFE WIN • WIN • WIN

WISCONSIN SOUVENIR COLLECTOR Wisconsin Souvenir
L Milkcap/Pulltab Promotions Milk/Pulltab
E Promotions

G The ONLY COURT 1860 Executive Dr.
A Suite E

L APPROVED Oconomowoc, WI
53066
“PRIVATE SECTOR”
2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 29
PULLTAB PROMOTION

NEW Call to find out how 4 square
feet of your floor space can be
Milkcap/Pulltabs one of your highest profit areas

available in your location.

BOOTH 706 414-217-1731

The Wisconsin Grocers Association honors the recipients of the

2017 2017 Excellence in Operations Award

Candie Baker week promotion of sales and Steve Burkhardt
through several drawings, 240
Webster's Marketplace, Ripon customers, plus a guest, were Skogen’s Festival Foods
invited to attend the 30th
Nominated by Keven Niemi, Supervalu anniversary banquet for dinner Nominated by Mike Mesich, Sr. VP, Store Operations,
and a chance to Harley Skogen’s Festival Foods
As the daughter of Rob and Kathy Davidson Street Glide
Webster, owners of Webster’s Motorcycle or $15,000 cash. Steve Burkhardt started his grocery career in 1987 as a
Marketplace, Candie grew up in the bagger at the Center 90 IGA Store in Onalaska, WI. In
grocery business. She earned a degree Ripon and the surrounding 1990, he helped open the first Festival Foods in
from UW Madison in Kinesiology and communities know the Webster Onalaska, WI. In 1991, he answered the open call for
became a teacher for 10 years in family well, as Candie and her leaders and transferred to the Center 90 IGA store,
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. But in family invest countless hours where he helped turn around the struggling store and
2010, when Rob was contemplating and financial support to many gained a reputation as a leader not afraid to take on
retirement and selling the store, Candie charitable and community challenges. Over the next 10 years, Steve built on his
returned to the family business as organizations. Candie serves as the leadership skills with leadership roles in nearly every
company President. She dove in feet PTO treasurer at her children’s school, store department, and as a result, he earned many
first learning everything there was to church volunteer, Rotary member, girls promotions over the years – from Assistant Store
know about the grocery business. basketball and softball coach and also Director to Store Director at several Festival locations.
According to her nomination, Candie sits on the WGA Foundation Board of Steve was named Festival’s Director of Operations in
and Webster’s focus on family, Governors. She is also very involved
community and associates is what is with the Webster Foundation, started
driving this business to be successful. by her parents, which donates $60,000
annually to local non-profits and
Candie Baker oversees Webster’s team awards $28,000 in scholarships for
and guest satisfaction – she is the Webster’s employees graduating from
company cheerleader. She makes high school or continuing their
certain that all of her store directors education. Since its inception, the
have the tools and resources they need foundation has given over $900,000 in
to take care of Webster’s guests and grants and donations.
employees. And Candie makes sure
that her employees’ hard work and
dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. An
example happened just this past winter,
where 15 employees that reached the
20 year milestone at Webster’s, were
treated to a cruise; a way for the
Webster family to say “thank you for all
that you do for us.”

The Webster’s also like to let their
customers know how much they are
appreciated, as was evident when the
business recently celebrated their 30th
anniversary. They featured an eight

30 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2011, a position he held until being promoted to Vice and spearheading a new cardboard recycling initiative.
President Store Operations in 2013. Appointed Vice
President of Operations Support in 2016, Steve is now According to Steve’s nomination, no one promotes the grocery industry to the
responsible for 28 Festival Foods stores, two support public better than Steve. For over a decade, Steve has donned an Uncle Sam
offices and a maintenance office. costume and a pair of stilts to promote Festival Foods in Fourth of July parades
around Wisconsin. Since 2008, Steve has served on the board of the St. Joseph’s
In his current role, Steve’s leadership and forward- Food Pantry, Appleton; and as a Governing Board Elder and Vice Chair at
thinking vision have allowed Festival Foods to advance Appleton Alliance Church (AAC). Both professionally and personally, Steve is
in the area of facilities innovations. Steve has considered to be a modest, selfless leader who is always looking for ways to help
reconstructed the company’s maintenance department Festival Foods as well as his colleagues, industry, organizations he serves, and his
and created a new position of Energy and Material family and friends.
Recovery Manager. He has championed new cost-saving
ideas, such as revamping Festival Foods’ trucking
program to improve logistics and transportations needs

Jason Nilssen

Nilssen’s Foods

Nominated by Jim Hopkins, SpartanNash

Jason Nilssen, a fourth generation grocer, grew
up working for the family grocery business in
Clear Lake. After working 14+ years at various
grocery firms, Jason’s desire to become an
owner/operator brought him back to northwest
Wisconsin where he purchased his own store in
Baldwin in 2006. Jason quickly grew the
Baldwin business, expanding in 2016 from
22,000 to 37,000 square feet, which also met
customers’ needs for new, different and
expanded item offerings. Jason also owns
Nilssen’s Foods grocery stores in the
communities of Ellsworth and Glenwood City,
as well as a combined ownership with uncles
Larry and Carl Nilssen in Cumberland.

According to Jason’s nomination, “What sets
Jason apart is his involvement in his community
as well as his commitment to his employees’
growth and their well-being.” Jason enrolls his
managers and assistant managers in Dale
Carnegie leadership training to sharpen their
skills and improve their performance and
interactions with store employees and
customers. Nilssen’s currently has three
employees from the Bridges from School to
Work program that engages employers, schools,
community resources, youth and their families
to help businesses meet their workforce needs
while offering young people with disabilities the
opportunity to learn, grow and succeed through

Continued on page 32
2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 31

The Wisconsin Grocers Association honors the recipients of the

2017 2017 Excellence in Operations Award

Continued from page 29 Brett & JoDee
Rechek
employment. Jason treats his employees as family and never misses
an employee’s graduation or honor ceremony and even gives them Rechek’s Food
recognition in store advertising.
Pride
Whether it’s Baldwin, Clear Lake, Ellsworth, Cumberland or
Glenwood City, Nilssen’s Foods is a major supporter of the area Nominated by Larry
schools, community youth athletic programs, as well as the Syring,
Baldwin Area Food Pantry, United Fire and Rescue and the St. SpartanNash
Croix Valley Family Resource Center. Jason is also a huge
supporter of Special Olympics Wisconsin, both in his region and Brett and JoDee
statewide and is an active member in Chamber of Commerce, have been involved
Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. in the Beaver Dam community since 1985, working in Brett’s
father’s store. Brett and his father Jerry built a new store in
Well known for their award-winning Blue Ribbon Meats, Nilssen’s 1996 and Brett later purchased the store from his father. The
recently won two Grand Champion Awards, a Reserve Grand store was expanded in 2000 and again in 2016, where a 7500
Champion Award and a Champion Award at the 2017 Wisconsin square foot expansion and remodel were completed. According
Association of Meat Producers Meat Product Competition. to Brett and JoDee’s nomination, “their involvement with
Nilssen’s other accolades include the 2006 Baldwin Area Chamber people within their store and people outside their store is
Business of the Year, the 2014 Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce outstanding; their mission is to give back and it shows.”
Business of the Year and the winner of the 2010 and 2011
National Grocers Association Creative Choice Awards for The Beaver Dam community has reaped the benefits of the
Merchandising. Rechek’s involvement and commitment to local charities and
events. Rechek’s Food Pride has donated a total of more than
$1.5 million dollars to local charities over the years. Grampa
Rechek’s SKDS Golf Benefit has raised over $340,000 since
1996 for Saint Katharine Drexel School. Rechek’s Food Pride
also buys prize-winning animals from 4H members at the
County Fair and provides a food stand at the store that gives
local groups the opportunity to raise funds. Brett and JoDee
Rechek are very much appreciated by many. The Rechek’s and
their store managers also visit the local schools to bring real-life
learning experiences to students and through the generosity of
Brett and JoDee, over $65,000 has been awarded in scholarships
to graduating Rechek’s employees. As one Beaver Dam
community member put it, “Rechek’s Food Pride is much more
than a list of community supported activities and financial
donations.”

Brett and JoDee show an incredible appreciation for their
dedicated employees. They provide continuing education for
their employees and will also pay membership dues when
employees join a civic group or organization. The Rechek’s are
passionate about promoting from within their company; which
is evident with their very seasoned management staff, many
with over 20 years of experience.

Beaver Dam Business of the Year, Beaver Dam School Wall of
Fame and the Patriotic Employer Award, given for the Rechek’s
support and employment of service men and women, are just a
few of Brett and JoDee’s accolades received over the last 20+
years. Rechek’s has also won several national awards for
Grampa Rechek’s Homemade Sausage and was named one of
the Top Independent Retailers in the country in 1996, 1997
and 1998.

32 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 33

The Wisconsin Grocers Association honors the recipients of the

2017 Community Service Award

2017

shelter and Humane Society. and merchandising opportunities.
Ron and Cathy purchase and
fill backpacks with all the In addition to the typical work that a Vice
necessities to start the school President of Fresh Foods does, Troy is always
year for less fortunate looking for ways to better serve Festival Foods
students and support Zoro’s guests, associates and the community. In
Locker which is a food pantry 2009, a time when retail dietitians were quite
at the local high school that, rare, Troy began a retail dietitian program at
weekly, sends food home with Festival Foods and Stephanie Schultz came
the large number of homeless onboard as the company’s first registered
children that attend there. dietitian. Troy and Stephanie made a powerful
team and drove the program to great success;
Ron & Cathy Lamb The local Susan G Komen 5k run is Stephanie was named the first ever Retail
supported by the Lamb’s; this cause hits close Dietitian of the Year (2014) by the Retail
Lamb’s Fresh Market to home with them as Cathy lost her sister to Dietitians Business Alliance. The program
breast cancer and Cathy herself is a survivor. also earned the prestigious Food Marketing
Nominated by Bill Smits, Supervalu The Lambs also are very generous with their Institute (FMI) Gold Plate Award in 2016.
time, both in and outside of their
Ron and Cathy Lamb are lifelong residents of community. They recently spent ten days on Outside of Festival Foods, many organizations
the Wausau area and very proud of their a church mission to Alaska, where Ron in the Green Bay area have been fortunate to
community. Ron started his grocery career in helped to remodel a church and Cathy taught have Troy working on their behalf. According
1980 as a meat cutter and both he and Cathy vacation bible school. to his nomination, when Troy commits to an
have been working at the Wausau store since organization, he puts his entire self into the
1988; they purchased it in 2014. effort; he is genuine and trustworthy, and his
demeanor often brings a sense of calm to each
The Lambs have a deep commitment to the Troy Vosburgh
community and their customers, which lead group, which enhances
them to change the name of the store in 2016 Skogen’s Festival Foods productivity.
from Quality Foods IGA to Lamb’s Fresh
Market. The store has become more family- Nominated by Randy Munns, Sr. VP-Marketing Troy currently serves as Past
oriented, and that's what the name change & Merchandising, Skogen’s Festival Foods Chair of the Salvation Army’s
aims to reflect. With Ron and Cathy’s two Brown County Advisory
sons also working at the store and their Troy Vosburgh joined the Festival Foods Board, where he helped design
commitment to treat their associates as family, Produce Department as a clerk in Onalaska a better model for thrift store
Lamb’s Fresh Market is truly a family in 1992. He held various produce manager service delivery. The Board
business. According to their nomination, roles over the next several years, and in 2003 recognized Troy by awarding
“Community and family come first in this was named Perishables Director. him their Shining Star Award
store; decisions are made here on what is in 2011 for his significant
good for the area!” Eight years later, Troy transitioned to his efforts in advancing the
current role, Vice President of Fresh Foods. mission of the organization.
Giving back to their community is of utmost Throughout his tenure at Festival Foods, Troy also currently serves as Past President of
importance to Ron and Cathy, as their Troy has led countless innovative projects in the Ashwaubenon Cooperative Preschool and
personal and business philanthropy extends fresh departments that have increased sales is Past President of the Parent-Teacher-
back many years. They are very active with Organization at Martin Luther King
Peyton’s Promise, a local food pantry started Elementary School in Green Bay.
by an eight-year-old girl. Ron and Cathy
hand out flyers, assist in donations and As a highly respected leader and with his
volunteer their time to help organize food excellent reputation as a teacher, Troy is
drives, raise awareness about the problem of always willing to share his knowledge and
hunger and distribute food to 27 food experience with others, such as the newer
pantries in Marathon County. associates at Festival Foods and the many
community leaders he serves alongside in the
They also support the Salvation Army, local Green Bay area. Troy believes in and is
church pantries, homeless shelters, women’s passionate about his communities, which
makes him very deserving of the Wisconsin
Grocers Association’s Community Service
Award.

34 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 35

WGA Thank you WGA Business Partners

BUSINESS WGA would like to thank WGA Business Partners for strategically
PARTNER engaging in WGA events, advertising, and sponsorships to promote
their products and services to WGA Members.

NEW

DBS ROUP

Design-Build Solutions

NEW

Watch for Business Partner profiles in future issues of the
Wisconsin Grocer magazine or view them online at https://www.wisconsingrocers.com/buspartner.

ENERGY SAVINGS

ARE IN STORE FOR YOU

Want to find out how you can make food last
longer and improve your store’s appearance –
all while saving energy and money?

Contact the Focus on Energy Business
Incentive Program at 800.762.7077.

And make sure to visit us at this year’s WGA
Innovation Expo, booth 121.

36 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 37

BRONZE SPONSORS

As featured on the Food Network

Providing Wisconsin Grocers with quality
products and service. Our DSD program,
direct from our factory, ensures product
freshness. Currently we import and roast over 70 varieties of 100% Arabica
specialty coffee beans.

Ask us about our limited edition seasonal coffees today!
www.BerresBrothers.com • BOOTH 621

is now...

We’ve changed our name and look on the outside to reflect the BOOTHS 29 & 30
progress we’ve made on the inside.

Albert’s now is featuring both conventional as well as the very best selection of organic
produce! Albert’s, for the best in fresh...Produce, Meat, Dairy, Deli, Chees, and more.
BOOTH 721

BOOTH 207 BOOTH 508

[email protected]

Arctic Glacier Ice of Wisconsin Centec is one of Wisconsin’s largest security system integrators with proven
expertise in the design, installation and service of commercial and executive residential
Serving the Wisconsin Grocer with Premium Ice products, clients. Centec integrates multiple systems such as video surveillance, access control,
Ice Storage Equipment and Route Delivery Service intrusion alarms, fire detection and others to perform under one operating platform
where only one call must be made for service on any system.
Product selection includes Packaged Ice for retail sales, Produce Ice and Ice Carving Blocks
CENTEC SECURITY SYSTEMS, Inc.
With Wisconsin manufacturing sites in Menomonee Falls and Madison and Distribution W228 N727 Westmound Drive • Waukesha, WI 53187

centers in La Crosse, Wausau and Neenah, Arctic Glacier is positioned to assist the 800.204.4677 • www.CentecSecurity.com
Wisconsin Grocer daily. ArcticGlacierInc.com BOOTH 17 & 18

Arctic Glacier Inc.–Wisconsin • Call 262-345-6996 • Fax 262-345-6998 BOOTH 412

BOOTH 512 Toll Free 888-573-9237

Madison Office 608-839-5441 • Brookfield Office 262.786.3446 CRYSTAL FARMS is a distributor
PO Box 8456 Madison WI 53708-8466 of fine refrigerated products which
include Crystal Farms brand cheeses,
1-800-359-1032 BOOTH 516 Simply Potatoes, Better ‘n Eggs,
All Whites, and David’s Deli Bagels
[email protected]
www.badgerinventory.com to supermarkets in over 40 states. BOOTH 511

BOOTH 517 Designer Greetings is the established brand chosen by independent grocery stores to
differentiate themselves from mass market stores and drive sales.
Bernatello’s Pizza
We offer an extensive selection of everyday counter cards filling up to 160 feet,
BOOTH 28 as well as a full line of gift-wrap, with many value programs to choose from.
Made with over 1/2 pound
BOOTH 116 www.DesignerGreetings.com 800-654-6960
Wisconsin cheese.

www.brewpubpizza.com
@brewpubpizza

38 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

BRONZE SPONSORS

Seeing IS Believing! BOOTH 518

Madison, WI 53719 BOOTH 422

(608) 358-9742 North Country Business Products
is one of the largest point-of-sale
[email protected] (POS) Solution Providers in the nation
providing cutting-edge manufacturers
Let Ecolite LED be your full service LED lighting provider. such as LOC Software, Toshiba Hardware, HP Hardware and OpenEye Security.
We have the nation’s only 10-year parts AND labor warranty! Check us out online. NCBP provides POS solutions that drive Efficiency, improve your
Profits and Customer Loyalty.
www.ecoliteled.com • BOOTH 418
WWW.NCBPINC.COM | 800-937-4140 | BOOTH 514
EMIL’S PIZZA, celebrating almost 50 years of

bringing Wisconsin one of the most sought-after frozen
pizzas, attributes its success to their use of FRESH ingredients.
Fresh meat, cheese, and vegetables, purchased locally,
create an authentic pizzeria flavor that is second to none.
Check out our extensive line of specialty pizzas.
Emil’s Pizza salutes Wisconsin suppliers! BOOTH 509

1020 S 12th St. PO Box 168 Watertown WI 53094 920.262.9756

Business Incentive
Program

Ratepayer funded program that
assists Wisconsin businesses in implementing energy savings projects
that has helped 2.7 million Wisconsin residents and businesses save over
$730 million in energy costs since 2001. Offers unbiased information and
technical and financial assistance to participating utilities’ electric and/or

natural gas customers. • BOOTH 121

Fresh Delivery to Over
150 Locations Daily

GrebesBakery.com There’s no substitute for the small town values of Cudahy, Wisconsin. Perhaps that’s
why there’s no mistaking the genuine goodness of Patrick Cudahy. From our signature
sweet apple-Wood Smoked Bacon to our Premium Deli Meats, Patrick Cudahy stays
true to the values that have been the cornerstone orf our succes since 1888.

BOOTH 421 Klondike Cheese Company in Monroe, SPROUTED WHOLE GRAINS & SEEDS OFFER EXCEPTIONAL
BOOTH 510
Wisconsin crafts Odyssey® brand Feta Cheese and HEALTH & WELLNESS BENEFITS:
Greek Yogurt, available in a variety of flavors and
sure to leave you satisfied. With four generations • Improved bioavailability and nutrient absorption
of family commitment we produce only the best
• Contains more protein, fiber, and Omega-3 fatty acids
award-winning cheeses and Greek Yogurt.
For more info and recipes please visit than unsprouted

www.klondikecheese.com or (608) 325-3021 • Increased Nutrient Value BOOTH 622
• Higher in Trace Minerals
Luxury Linen USA offers high-quality
textiles at affordable wholesale prices. • Enhanced Flavors

Richard Gergis • 312.402.6006 • [email protected] ActivFit Breads and Buns contain a sprouted whole
BOOTH 716
wheat that is Identity Preserved. Our flours are traced

each year to the actual farm (Identity Preserved)

BOOTH 100

Retail Data Systems of Wisconsin

1900 Pewaukee Road, Suite M

BOOTH 613 Waukesha, WI 53188

1-800-779-7052

Retail Data Systems is Wisconsin’s premier supplier of
Technology to the Independent Grocery Industry since 1950.

• ScanMaster and ISS-45 Scanning Systems • U-Scan Self Checkout
• S4 Back Office Software • Electronic Check Conversion & Electronic Shelf Tags

Retail Data Systems is now Wisconsin’s EXCLUSIVE ScanMaster resource

BOOTH 622

2016 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 39

40 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

BRONZE SPONSORS

S&R Egg Farm BOOTHS
25, 26, 27
For the best Wisconsin farm-fresh eggs
262.495.6220

www.sreggfarm.com

BOOTH 609

Since 1964! Buy Local,
Providing innovative solutions with personalized care of your sanitation and cleaning Buy Wisconsin

chemical programs. A full-line distributor of commercial cleaning products.
Contact Matt Mirenda at

(414) 303-6958 or [email protected] • BOOTH 420

Saz’s Kicks-Off with New Appetizers Saz’s introduced two

new, exciting frozen appetizer items to retailers at the last year’s WGA
Expo. Jalapeno Mozzarella wonton wraps and Lienkugel’s Kettle Brau Beer
Battered Pepper Jack wonton wraps. The items are hand-rolled in a light
egg roll skin and made with all natural Wisconsin cheese. These items add
to the Saz’s family including Mini Mozzarella wonton wraps and Lienenkugel’s Kettle Brau Beer
Battered Cheese Curds. Saz’s retail portfolio includes 4 varieties of BBQ Sauce and BBQ Ribs.
For more info, contact Jeff Gudex • 414-704-5593 • www.Sazs.com • BOOTH 117

Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin Celebrating healthy
Wisconsin-grown potatoes
Celebrating healthy
Wisconsin-grown potatoes From field
to fork
From field to fork
BOOTH 119 Wisconsin Potato
and Vegetable
715-623-7683 | eatwisconsinpotatoes.com
Growers Association
WISCONSIN SOUVENIR
COLLECTOR 715-623-7683
Milkcap/Pulltab Promotions
eatwisconsinpotatoes.com
414-217-1731 Call to find out how 4 square NEW
feet of your floor space can be 2016 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 41
Milkcap/
one of your highest profit Pulltabs
areas in your location.

BOOTH 706

The Wisconsin Grocers Association honors the recipient of the

2017 Vendor of the Year Award

2017

BPI Color is an essential and things requiring large
format documentation.
dynamic supporter of the WGA.
Blueprints, Inc.
With their continued support through sponsorships and provided the
producing high-quality signage, graphics and banners at all Architectural, Engineering,
WGA events, BPI Color has become an invaluable partner for & Construction (AEC)
the WGA. industry as well as the
industrial/manufacturing
BPI Color has been proactive in assisting WGA members across industries with all the
the state by integrating in-store signage and poster printing design and drafting tools
capabilities to enhance members’ in-store advertising and necessary to produce and
marketing efforts. They have built a hassle free “Poster Printer reproduce large format
Program” for members where grocers can quickly print low-cost in- documents. The business
store promotional posters and community signage. BPI provides was passed to the next
training on their poster printing equipment and works with generation in 1990 when
retailers to maximize their in-store printing capabilities. BPI Color Steve Mueller, Dick’s son,
also delivers both small- and large-format signage for store purchased the company and
makeovers and now produces and installs everything from small became president of
wall plaques and overhead department signage to giant wall murals. Blueprints, Inc. Steve
Through their multiple offerings, BPI Color has become a go-to and his partner Pat
resource for any and all grocers’ graphic needs. Feely (VP Operations)
have grown the
BPI Color’s values of experience, longevity, relationships and family business from one
are key attributes ingrained in their belief that the relationship with location,
their customers is the most important aspect of the business. This the company
is reflected in a quote made by founder Dick Mueller long ago, headquarters in
“Experience is a very cunning teacher. We pay the price first Milwaukee, to
and get the lessons later. We would all be richer if we could sell another location in
our experience for what it cost us in the school of hard knocks. Menomonee Falls and two in Madison. Their customer
So it’s good personally and for business to listen and profit base has grown from 150 customers in the early1960s to more than
from the experience of others; especially when it is your 2,230 in 2017, with customers spanning 15 states. Customers now
customer!” include not only grocers but also advertising agencies, marketing
firms, healthcare facilities, universities, municipalities and
More about BPI Color manufacturers.

In 1956, Dick Mueller and Steve Ulik started the BPI Color family
business and it was all about “blueprints” and the support of all

42 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 43

44 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 45

WGA BOARD 2017

Marlin Greenfield, Bob Fleming, Fox Run Sentry
Chairman, Festival Foods Bob is the owner/operator of Fox Run Sentry store in
Marlin serves as the Senior Operations Leader of Festival Waukesha. He has been in the grocery industry since 1974
Foods, joining the Skogen family business in 1990 when they starting as a bagger at Sentry in Pewaukee, WI. He has held
opened their first Festival Foods store in Onalaska, WI. He many positions through the years working for Godfrey/Fleming
later moved his family to the east side of Wisconsin as the Companies. He left Fleming in 2001 and he and his partners
company continued to expand and now assists owner Mark purchased three Sentry stores. He has since purchased the
Skogen with the operation of their 22 stores. Prior to joining Festival Foods, business from his partners and currently operates two stores. He previously
Marlin worked for both Copps and Cub Foods. He lives near Appleton with served on the WGA Board in the late 1990s.
his wife, Judi; the couple have three grown children and two grandchildren.
(Since 2010) Greg Hansen, Hansen’s IGA
Since, 1992, Greg has been a partner and owner of Hansen's
Jeff Maurer, Vice-Chairman, Fresh Madison Market IGA, with nine locations in Wisconsin. He uses his 20+ years of
management experience to keep his family-owned business
Jeff has worked in the grocery business since 1973, starting thriving. His wife, Kari, works alongside Greg as the Special
with Byerly's, Inc. in Minnesota. Since then, he has worked Products Coordinator. They live in Bangor with their three
with Roger & Marv's Supervalu in Kenosha, Fairway Foods, children. (Since 2010)
Inc. and Holiday Station Stores, Inc. in Bloomington and
Pierce's Supermarkets, Inc. in Baraboo. He is currently the Michelle Harrington, Delafield Sentry
owner of Fresh Madison Market on the UW campus in Michelle, President of Albrecht Foods, began her career in the
Madison, WI and Fresh City Market on the Purdue campus in West grocery industry at a very young age. She oversees all operations
Lafayette, IN. Jeff and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 33 and have of her Delafield Sentry store. Michelle also serves as the WGA
three grown daughters; Kristie is currently the manager at Fresh Madison Event Chairperson. (Since 2013)
Market (Since 2008, 2010)
Steve Loehr, Kwik Trip
William Dowling, Secretary/ Treasurer, Roundy's Steve is Vice President, Support Operations, for Kwik Trip, a
Supermarkets 490+ convenience store chain headquartered in La Crosse, WI.
Bill is Vice President, Corporate Counsel for Roundy's, Inc. Prior to Kwik Trip, Steve held a variety of positions at Gateway
headquartered in Milwaukee, WI. Prior to joining Roundy's, Foods, including President in Pennsylvania. He has served on
Bill was an attorney with Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek, S.C. many boards and is married to Cheryl, has four children and
and represented Roundy's on several matters. He resides in nine grandchildren (Since 2006)
New Berlin with his wife and three children (Since 2006)

Dave Ryman, Immediate Past Chairman, Certco, Inc.
Dave is the Vice President of Sales and Merchandising for
Certco, Inc. in Madison. Certco is a full service distribution
and retail support center for independent supermarkets in
Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Iowa. Prior to joining
Certco in 1991, Dave managed several independent
supermarkets in northern Illinois for 25 years. He and his
wife Debby, live in Janesville, WI, have two grown children and two
grandchildren. (Since 2005)

Rick Roth, Great Lakes Coca Cola
Rick Roth, General Manager of Great Lakes Coca-Cola
Distribution, Central Wisconsin, is the newest member of the
WGA’s Board of Directors and will complete the term started
by David Althoff, Great Lakes Coca-Cola. Rick began his
Coca-Cola career in 1990 as a conventional route salesperson
in Stevens Point before moving into the district sales manager
role in 1995. From there, he held the position of Sales Center Manager in
central Wisconsin from 1996 to 2010, overseeing all operations including
warehouse, distribution, sales and merchandising across the Stevens Point,
Wausau, and Rhinelander markets. Rick most recently held the role of
market unit Sales Director for the large and small store channels for the
Minnesota/Wisconsin market unit. Rick and his wife, Beth, reside in Steven
Point with their three children: Allison, Megan, and Joey. (Since 2017)

Greg Cross, SpartanNash
Greg is the Senior Sales Manager for SpartanNash, located in
the St. Cloud, MN division. Prior to joining SpartanNash,
Greg spent five years in Bermuda working for the island's
largest food retailer, MarketPlace, in store operations.
Through the years, Greg owned several Save A Lot stores, was
Vice President of Marketing at Supervalu and served a variety
of store management positions with Kroger. Greg lives in the St. Cloud area
with his wife Jeannine. (Since 2012)

46 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

Paul Lucas, MillerCoors Robert Rothove, Associated professionally in politics and government affairs
Paul is Regional Director, State Wholesale Grocers for over 30 years. He previously worked as Senior
Government Affairs for MillerCoors Director for Altria Client Services in Washington,
and responsible for a 12 state region. As Chief Procurement Officer, Robert DC and was responsible for 25 states. He also
Prior to this position, he was the has been at Affiliated Foods Midwest managed seven Midwest states working at the
Regional Director of State Government since 2003. He moved his family to Oscar Mayer headquarters in Madison. (Served on
Affairs for Philip Morris Management Wisconsin in 2009 when Affiliated the WGA Board from 2003–2008, and since 2012)
Company and was responsible for all beer, food and moved its procurement to Kenosha. He is married
tobacco issues in the Midwest. (Since 1998) to Jennifer and has three children. (Since 2014.) David Spiegelhoff,
Gooseberries
Jeff McClure, Supervalu Toby Spangler, Diageo Fresh Food Market

Jeff McClure, Area Marketing Toby is Senior Director, Diageo David is the owner of Gooseberries
Director for Supervalu Midwest, State Government Relations. His Fresh Food Market in Burlington,
began his career at Supervalu in 1972 duties include managing all state WI. He is a third generation
and has held a variety of position. Jeff and local issues on behalf of Spiegelhoff grocer and has worked for over 40
has served on the WGA between Diageo in the Midwest Region. years in the family business. David has also served
1998-2005 and served as Chairman in 2004 & 2005. Diageo is the largest producer of premium alcohol for many years as the chairman of the WGA's Golf
(Since 2016) beverages in the world. Toby has been working Outing as well as a past Chairman of the WGA
Board. He and his wife Kathy, have three children,
enjoy six grandchildren and reside in Burlington
(Since 2009)

Don Symonds, Lipari Foods

As Director of Events and Trade
Relations For Lipari Foods, Don
has worked his entire life int he
supermarket industry in a
multitude of positions that have
allowed him experience in retail
operations, wholesale sales and distribution ans
direct store distribution. Don's many positions
with Lipari have offered him the opportunity to
view the supermarket industry from many
perspectives and aid him as he works with national
and trade organizations to prepare evens and
encourage collaboration to better our industry.
Don and his wife of 34 years, Sandi, have three
children and reside in Grand Ledge, Michigan,
just west of Lansing. (Since 2009)

Jeff Tate, Watertown Piggly
Wiggly

Jeff has been involved in the family
owned grocery business from 1973
until 1996. He has worked with all
six of his brothers and his father in
all facets of their stores as they grew
the business to five stores. After serving as the store
manager for Fox Brothers Piggly Wiggly from
1997-2007, he and his wife, Cindy, opened a new
Piggly Wiggly in Watertown, WI. They are very
active in the community and have six children,
three of which served in the military with a
combined five active tours of duty. They have
four grandchildren and reside in Watertown.
(Since 2011)

Dan Williamson, Kemps

Dan spent 19 years on the retail
side running Independent stores in
the valley. Dan started in 1996 with
Kemps and is the General Manager.
Dan celebrated his 20th year with
Kemps in March. Dan is married
with two sons. Dan is on the Board of WDPA and
was President in 2015.

2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 47

WGA STAFF

Brandon Scholz, Mark Stellpflug, David Kotwitz
President & CEO Member Service Executive Director
Representative WGA Education and
[email protected] Scholarship Foundation
[email protected]
As President & CEO, Brandon [email protected]
Scholz oversees the WGA’s programs Mark has lived in New Holstein,
and operations and serves as the Wisconsin, most of his life. His Dave Kotwitz is the owner of the Piggly Wiggly in
association’s main spokesperson on industry issues, parents built a SuperValu-supplied store in 1963, Edgerton. He has been a part of the Piggly Wiggly
legislative concerns and administrative policies. and he began working in the store at the age of 11. business since 1972 when he started as a night
Scholz directs the WGA’s staff on administrative He continued to work in the store during school crew foreman. In 2004, Dave and his wife, Sandy,
matters; member benefits and programs; years, and after a short stint in college returned to bought the Edgerton business. In 2009, the
communications; government affairs; grassroots the store to work fulltime. In 1989, Mark and his Janesville Gazette honored him with the “50 Who
and political programs; and the annual convention wife purchased the 10,000-sq.-ft. SuperValu store. Matter” award. Dave has also been awarded the
and trade show. He serves on the WGA’s Education In 1994, they switched wholesalers, and became a Edgerton Rotary Club Honored Citizen and
and Scholarship Foundation Board of Governors. Piggly Wiggly store. In that same year they WGA’s Community Service Award. He lives in
(Since 1997) expanded the store to 16,000 sq. ft. Then, in 2000, Edgerton with his wife and children Reid, Ross,
we built a 30,000-sq-ft. replacement store and and Bree. (Since 2010)
Michelle Kussow, operated it until December of 2012, when they
VP-Government Affairs sold the business. (Since 2014)
& Communication

[email protected]

Michelle Kussow is responsible
for developing and maintaining
the Grocers Grassroots Initiative legislative
program for the WGA. As chief lobbyist for the
WGA, Michelle researches positions and tracks
legislation on federal and state issues, lobbies on
behalf of WGA members in the legislature, and
provides necessary information to WGA members
so they can understand and play an active role in
the political process. She also manages the WGA
PAC and Conduit political support programs,
organizes Government Day and writes and edits
the Capitol Happenings. Michelle is responsible
for the communications aspects of the
association, including press releases and
publications of the bi-monthly Wisconsin Grocer
magazine. (Since 1997)

Cheryl Lytle, Events Director

[email protected]

Cheryl Lytle is in charge of the
WGA’s Innovation Expo,
including sponsorships,
promotions, programming and
management of the event. Cheryl manages the
annual WGA Golf Outing as well as the silent
auctions and other fundraising events. In
addition, Cheryl serves as the WGA’s point of
contact for magazine ad sales and assists in the
production and publication of the Wisconsin
Grocer magazine. (Since 1999)

Sarah Decorah,
Operations Director

[email protected]

Sarah Decorah serves as the
assistant to the WGA president on
all administrative duties and is the
immediate point of contact for members. Her
responsibilities include: assisting with all record
and bookkeeping functions, handling member
requests for information, and maintaining accounts
receivable/ payable records. Sarah coordinates the
WGA HR Share Group, the Education and
Scholarship Foundation and maintains
membership files and the coordination of the
annual membership dues program. (Since 2004)

48 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com

Bids taken Wisconsin Grocers Association
throughout the
Innovation Expo! Education and
Scholarship
FINAL BIDS
FOUNDATION
Wednesday,
October 18, 7 PM, YOUR
during the Chairman’s

Banquet.

PALLET OF PRODUCT

SILENT AUCTION

Attend the WGA’s Innovation Expo and WIN BIG!

Pallet of Products is WGA’s Education & Scholarship Silent Auction bids will be accepted anytime during the
Foundation’s one of the newest fundraisers at the WGA’s Expo until the end of the Chairman’s Banquet. You are
Innovation Expo. welcome to bid on all products or pick and choose from
products selected.
Vendor companies have donated a pallet of their product for
WGA members and Expo attendees to place a silent auction Bid High! Bid Often! The highest bidder will receive the
bid to purchase the product for your store! product!

Pallet of Produce
Bid separately on these individual pallets. Donated by Russ Davis Wholesale

1. Dole Gold Pineapple – 70 cases of 7 count pineapples per case,
$1015 estimated retailer cost

2. Whole White Mushrooms – 100 – 12/8oz packages,
$1295 estimated retailer cost

3. Crazy Fresh WI New Crop Russet Potatoes – Two pallets of 100 – 10-lb bags,
$390 estimated retailer cost

4. Green Giant Baby Peeled Carrots – 3 cases 30 – 1lb packages,
$1449 estimated retailer cost

Four Cases of Saz’s BBQ Products
Bid on as a group. Donated by Saz’s BBQ Products
4 Cases of Saz’s BBQ product to include:

1 case – Sassy Saz’s BBQ – 8 units of 28 oz bottles
1 case – Vadalia Onion flavor – 8 units of 28 oz bottles
1 case – Spicy White sauce – 12 units of 10 oz bottles
1 case – Saz’s Original BBQ – 8 units of 28 oz bottles
$110 estimated retailer cost

Pallet of Kemps Milk Donated by Kemps LLC
2% gallons of milk (216 units) $675 estimated retailer cost

Pallet of Arctic Glacier Ice Donated by Arctic Glacier Ice
20 lb bags of ice (100 units) $300 estimated retailer cost

Pallet of Products as of as of September 5, 2017. 2017 Expo Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 49

50 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com