IFPA calls for Retail Produce Manager Award nominations

May 14, 2026 WASHINGTON, D.C. — The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) BB #:378962 announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 Retail Produce Manager Awards, recognizing retail produce managers across the globe who exemplify excellence, innovation, and commitment to bringing fresh produce to life for consumers every day.

Nominations are open now through May 22, 2026.

Winners will be recognized at the IFPA Awards of Excellence Retail Produce Manager reception, held during the 2026 Global Produce & Floral Show in Orlando, Florida, in October.

“Retail produce managers are where strategy meets shelf, they are the reason consumers reach for fresh fruits and vegetables,” said IFPA Chief Membership Officer, Miriam Wolk.

“We’re grateful to our sponsor, Robinson Fresh and media partner, Produce Blue Book, who help us to honor these frontline team members who are having such an impact on their stores and communities.”

The awards celebrate the produce managers who are more than operators — they are community connectors, category builders, and advocates for fresh. These are the individuals who inspire their teams, elevate their departments, and set the standard for what fresh produce retail can be.

“Blue Book is proud to sponsor these retail awards,” said Blue Book CEO Kirk Soule. “Produce managers play a critical role in keeping consumers healthy through the availability of high quality fruits and vegetables in stores. Blue Book’s tools and data have helped retailers evaluate suppliers for 125 years, and we have new tools coming online for them this year.”

Nominations are open to retail produce managers globally who demonstrate outstanding performance in one or more of the following areas:

• Produce merchandising, category innovation, and department performance
• Customer engagement and in-store produce education
• Community involvement and fresh produce advocacy
• Leadership, team development, and operational excellence

The awards are open to nominees from retail banners and chains worldwide.

IFPA encourages regional and global retail members, supplier partners, and industry colleagues to submit nominations on behalf of the exceptional produce managers they work with and observe firsthand.