Fresh foods are the accelerator for food retail success — but what is the accelerator for fresh foods? That question is at the heart of what the industry explored during the recent FMI FreshForward event. Retailers, manufacturers and other senior-level attendees identified crucial takeaways for overcoming pandemic-related challenges. Leaders discussed how the fresh foods industry can accelerate engagement with consumers, and advance to the next levels on supply chain and sustainability.

As I made my way by the deli section, I was forced to follow a different path than normal because of the new one-way signs on the floor. As I explored this new area of the store that I did not know existed, I saw an array of chicken, seafood and meat creations. I asked a very helpful associate behind the counter, “since when do you all offer all this variety of prepared foods?” Her response, “As long as I have been working here honey, and that has been almost 20 years.”

We need more stories of comity that feed our spirits in acts of human kindness. Our Community Outreach Awards highlight the oft-unmentioned goodwill of grocers that serve and shape our communities.

We have launched a voting resources page making sure everyone has the necessary information on how to vote. In response to COVID-19, many states have issued vote-by-mail options and altered in-person voting procedures.