Iowa Products 2020

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE • 2020
iowagrocer
United We Stand
A publication of the Iowa Grocery Industry Association
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I A T E D
W H O L E S A L E
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IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Inside this Issue
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28
34
The Iowa Grocer magazine is published four times per
year by Grocers Service Company, a subsidiary of the
Iowa Grocery Industry Association. The magazine is
distributed by mail to members of the Iowa Grocery
Industry Association. All rights of this publication are
strictly reserved and no part of it may be reproduced
in whole or part without expressed written permission
from the publisher. While the information has been
compiled carefully to ensure maximum accuracy
at the time of publication, it is provided for general
guidance and is subject to change. Entire contents
are protected by Copyright ©2020 Iowa Grocer and
Grocers Service Company. Magazine printing provided
by Sutherland Printing, Montezuma, Iowa.
Paying Tribute to IGIA’s Ribbon Sponsors............................................................... 4–5
Chairman’s Message....................................................................................................... 6
IGIA Board of Directors.................................................................................................. 7
President’s Message....................................................................................................... 8
Meet the Team................................................................................................................ 9
Meet Your New IGIA Board Members.................................................................. 10–13
FMI Column: Thinking about 2021 in Public Policy and Business.....................18–19
Your Hometown Grocer: Clint Miller, Freeman Foods.......................................20–23
Getting to Know Your IGIA staff: Michelle Hurd, IGIA President.......................28–29
SHAZAM Column: How the Pandemic Impacts Debit Transactions.................32–33
IGIA Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities Provide
Visibility, Access, Leadership................................................................................. 34–35
IGIA Announces 2021-2022 IGEF Scholarship Program ....................................36–37
Shining a Light on Iowa Products & Businesses.................................................38–44
NGA Column: It’s Never Time to Slow Down............................................................. 45
Recognizing 2020 IGIA Leadership Institute Graduates.....................................46–52
IGIA Announces 2021 Build with Bags Grant Program............................................ 53
Supplier Member Directory................................................................................... 54–55
IGIA Welcomes New Members and Member Renewals........................................... 56
On the Cover
The Iowa Grocery Industry Association and its chairman, Rob Feeney of
Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Co., are proud of how the retailers, producers,
suppliers and distributors among our membership unite to serve
Iowa communities. The portrait of products on the cover of this issue
symbolizes the many outstanding companies that work in or call our
state home.
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iowagrocer
2020 IGIA Ribbon Sponsorship
Stepping Up for Our Industry
At the IGIA, we are proud of all our members for tirelessly serving their communities,
but we are especially grateful for an elite group of companies that have chosen to STEP
UP and champion the Association by becoming IGIA Ribbon Sponsors. We wanted to
recognize the great leadership of the many companies you see listed here that have
supported our Association helping us to stand united and remain strong throughout
the COVID-19 pandemic.
Their support has allowed the Association to provide beneficial programming and
resources for our members during a difficult time. Their backing has been paramount
to executing effective advocacy efforts that have helped IGIA members overcome
unprecedented challenges.
The Association strives to give our esteemed Ribbon Sponsors outstanding recognition
all year long. As we recognize the exceptional companies listed here, please consider
supporting them as they have supported our Association when selecting the businesses
you partner with to supply products and services.
Special thanks to this year’s IGIA Ribbon Sponsors!
PLATINUM
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Coca-Cola
E & J Gallo Winery
Fareway Stores
Hy-Vee
PepsiCo
SHAZAM

BLUE
AE Dairy
Associated Wholesale
Grocers
Bernatello’s Pizza
Cylinder Express
Federated Insurance
Hiland Dairy
We invite all IGIA members
to STEP UP and enjoy the elite status
afforded IGIA Ribbon Sponsors.
Contact Cara Corkrean
ccorkrean@iowagrocers.com
515.270.2628
RED
ACOSTA Sales & Marketing
Advantage Solutions
Anheuser Busch
Bimbo Bakeries USA
Casey’s General Stores
Certco
General Mills
Iowa Lottery
Kellogg Company
Kemps
Keurig Dr Pepper
KraftHeinz
Kum & Go
Kwik Star
MillerCoors
Mondelez
Mueller Yurgae Associates
Old Dutch Foods
Principal
Sazerac
Southern Glazer’s
Wine & Spirits
Wells Enterprises
White Claw Hard Seltzer
WHITE
Altria Client Services
American Pop Corn Company
Arctic Glacier
Barilla
Body Armor
The Boston Beer Company
BKD CPAs & Advisors
Capital City Fruit
Cookies Food Products
Crossmark Sales & Marketing
CrownTonka
Crystal Farms
DFA Dairy Brands
Dakota Growers Pasta Co.
Evolving Edge Graphics
Fairlife
Frontier Co-op
Hockenberg Newburgh
Holmes Murphy
Hormel Foods
Hussmann
Johnson Brothers of Iowa
Kickass Beef Jerky
KPI Concepts
Messerschmitt Ice Service
Odyssey/Buholzer Brothers
Orion Land Mark
Pabst Brewing Company
Pan-O-Gold Baking Company
Pilgrim’s Pride
Prairie Farms
Premium Waters
Reynolds American
Rose Acre Farms
RSM US
Russ Davis Wholesale
Shearer’s
Sparboe Companies
SpartanNash
Tyson Foods
UNFI
Unilever
Versova Eggs
Voss Distributing/Red Bull
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iowagrocer
Chairman’s Message
Communication is key
The Iowa Products issue of the iowa
grocer magazine is always a favorite
for me as a supplier. It provides an
opportunity for the Association to
showcase the products and businesses
that help fuel industry growth.
As I reflect on the last several months,
one of the new practices that has a
prominent place on the other side of
COVID is the increased communication
levels within companies and between
companies.
Regarding internal company
communications, there has been
and will continue to be a ton of
information that needs to make its way
to employees as protocols are revised,
policies are updated, schedules
change, etc. It has been great to see
so many of us adopt new ways to
communicate and message with our
employees. I know we miss pulling
folks all together for an in-person
meeting, but we still are making it a
priority to stay connected.
It also has been extremely important
to adopt new communication
routines with how we tap into each
other throughout the industry.
We have all had our challenges as
suppliers and retailers to support the
increased demand in stores during
COVID. How we react to these supply
chain challenges is a key element in
helping to deliver positive shopping
experiences to consumers.
As an example, at Atlantic Coca-
Cola Bottling Co., we recently faced
a downstream supplier constraint
on a label for one of our plastic
bottle packages. The label shortage
was unforeseen and was due to a
COVID-related shutdown at a plant in
a different part of the country. This
occurred as our company and all
packaged beverage distributors were
navigating aluminum can shortages.
Because aluminum cans were in short
supply, our company was increasingly
turning to plastic bottle packages,
which exacerbated the impact of the
plastic bottle label constraint. The
successful handling of the situation
required unfailing communication as
we rerouted downstream suppliers,
communicated the label constraint to
our retail partners, pivoted impacted
brands to other packaging, and
provided additional communication
and explanation to the customer
community.
Our story is not unique. Keeping in
near-constant contact with retailers
on supply chain constraints and
action plans to correct them has been
something we have all been doing at
a high level. There is no supplier on
earth that looks forward to telling a
retail partner the tough news of an
issue that will impact their customers
and needs to be resolved. Yet, retail
partners have been pragmatic, and
we all have been nimble.
Looking ahead, I cannot tell you what
the remainder of 2020 or what 2021
is going to bring us. But, I can tell you
with certainty that if we all continue
to elevate our level of communication
around early identification of
problems… along with executable
solutions, we are going to turn those
situations into better customer
experiences within our stores.
So as we take a look at all of the
excellent Iowa products featured
within this issue of the iowa grocer
magazine, I encourage all of us to
keep an eye toward communicating
and problem-solving to overcome any
obstacles that may lay ahead.
Thank you and keep up the great work.
Sincerely,
Rob Feeney, IGIA Chairman
President & COO
Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company
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IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
IGIA Board of Directors
Officers
Chairman
Rob Feeney
Atlantic Coca-Cola
Bottling Co.
First Vice Chair
Charley Campbell
Kum & Go, L.C.
Second Vice Chair
Tom Laven
Fareway Stores, Inc.
Treasurer
Darren Baty
Hy-Vee, Inc.
Past Chairman
Steve Grolmus
North Scott Foods
Directors
Joel Allen
Hy-Vee, Inc.
Randy Bender
Bender’s Foods
Andrea Chase
Fareway Stores, Inc.
Denny Dietrich
Gary’s Foods
Jill Eildert
Hometown Foods
Bev Jessen
Cylinder Express
Brian Kessler
Associated
Wholesale Grocers
Dan Kramer
SHAZAM
Gary Munson
Kellogg Co.
Lisa Nelson
Walmart, Inc.
Tracy Prouty
SpartanNash
Dave Ring
Kwik Star
Dana Sump
Casey’s General
Stores
Amy Thompson
Pepsi Beverages Co.
Jeremy Thompson
Sazerac
Zac Voss
Voss Distributing/
Red Bull
Chris Yurgae
Mueller Yurgae
Associates
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iowagrocer
President’s Message
United we stand
As an industry we have faced and
overcome a multitude of challenges in
recent months that we could not have
even imagined this time last year. The
challenges of 2019 now seem to pale in
comparison to those the pandemic has
placed in our path.
But rather than feel overwhelmed, I have
felt hopeful and invigorated, motivated
by what I saw. I watched with great pride
as our industry rose to the occasion
time and again to assist one another, to
serve our communities and to provide
our customers with the food, supplies
and information they needed to feel
safe and to stay healthy.
When everything else closed down, our
retailers and suppliers continued to report
to work and produce product, to stock
shelves and to provide the security and
assurances the public needed at a difficult
and frightening time. We still do not know
when the pandemic will end and what it
means for the future, but the one thing I
know for sure, our industry will continue
to embrace the challenges ahead and
execute the work that needs to be done
to provide for Iowa communities.
As this year draws to a close, we
continue to wrestle issues—navigating
labor shortages, dealing with changing
supply chain constraints and working
hard to keep up with safety and
sanitation measures. Nevertheless,
like many of you, I love what I do and
cannot think of a better industry to
work in. As your Association president,
I am incredibly honored to represent
the many outstanding individuals and
companies featured within the pages
of this magazine. I’m proud of the way
we work together as an industry and
the opportunities this creates for us all.
I was reminded of this recently as
products arrived at the Iowa Grocery
Industry Association office during the
past few weeks for the photograph that
graces the cover of this issue of the iowa
grocer magazine.
The varied selection of products arranged
side-by-side paints a picture of unity,
camaraderie, hard work, dedication,
passion and, especially, commitment to
serve. It isn’t just a commitment to each
other and this industry, it’s a commitment
to every person in our state who depends
on us for the items they need to live
healthy, happy lives. In addition to
providing life’s essentials, our industry
offers employment, philanthropy
and tax revenues that build stronger
communities and a better way of life.
This issue always reminds me that we
cannot succeed alone. We need guidance
and support from each other and we
have to stand united with one voice on
issues of impact for the good of all IGIA
members.
The Association is especially grateful
for the leadership demonstrated by the
many outstanding companies that have
committed to be Ribbon Sponsors for
the coming year. They are true leaders
in our industry and their support makes
possible the wide array of programs
and services the Association is able to
offer. Demonstrating your dedication
to the grocery industry through Ribbon
Sponsorship is not only important to
the overall health of the Association, it
is critical to maintaining a strong retail
environment in our state.
Ribbon Sponsors also allow the IGIA
to continue to be the respected voice
of Iowa’s grocery industry and a
recognized leader in the State of Iowa.
The Association represents IGIA member
interests at the Capitol, making sure your
voice is heard by lawmakers. The IGIA
staff is also hard at work creating safe,
high-quality events, both virtual and
in-person, educational opportunities
and communications to help you form
valuable connections and stay abreast
of information to grow your business.
Our Ribbon Sponsors are the pillars of
the grocery and convenience industries
and through their unified support play
a critical role in maintaining a positive
business environment in which all IGIA
members can prosper.
I thank you all for your vision and your
leadership in supporting this program.
Best wishes for a prosperous new year!
With gratitude,
Michelle Hurd
IGIA President
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IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Meet the Team!
Michelle Hurd
President
Cara Corkrean
Assistant Vice President of
Membership and Operations
Ann Seuferer
Communication Specialist
Annie Schlink
Events and Education
Coordinator
Audrey Comer
Membership and Marketing
Coordinator
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iowagrocer
IGIA Board Welcomes Hy-Vee
Executive Joel Allen
The Iowa Grocery Industry Association welcomes Hy-Vee’s Joel Allen to its board of directors.
Allen fills a vacancy in a retail seat on the board. Having 28 years of retail experience with
Hy-Vee, Allen has an incredible amount of valued experience to bring to the board. Allen’s latest
addition to his long list of achievements with Hy-Vee includes a recent promotion to senior vice
president for Hy-Vee’s central region.
Joel Allen began working
in 1992 as a part-time
courtesy clerk for Hy-
Vee in Council Bluffs,
where he grew up. He
was 14 at the time and
attended Lewis Central
High School. After
graduation, he went on
to Iowa State University
and earned a Bachelor’s
of Science degree in
business finance.
Allen continued working
for Hy-Vee while
attending Iowa State
University, transferring to the Ames store near campus. His
next move took him to the Hy-Vee in Liberty, Mo. as a full-time
employee and assistant manager in 2000. He remained there
for three years and then transferred to a store in Overland
Park, Kan., in 2003, as manager, store operations. In 2004,
Joel was named manager, perishables and then manager,
store operations at that store. He then moved to Perry,
Iowa, to become the manager, store operations in 2005.
In 2007, Joel was given his first store director position at
Mason City Drugstore. From 2009 to 2016, Allen held store
director positions in Perry and at several stores in Omaha.
Then in 2017, he was promoted to district vice president of
Hy-Vee’s western district. This was followed by being named
regional vice president for the Omaha-Lincoln market, western
region, in early 2018. Later that same year, he took on the role
of senior vice president, marketing. This was followed by a
promotion to senior vice president, merchandising/advertising.
Then in September 2020, he was promoted to his current
position—senior vice president for Hy-Vee’s central region.
When he is asked the key to his success, Allen replies,
“There is no substitute for hard work, honesty and integrity,
and there are no shortcuts. You just have to dig in and
get the job done that you are being asked to do.”
Currently as senior vice president for Hy-Vee’s central region,
Allen oversees 64 stores, providing direction for merchandising,
advertising, sales and store conditions. His role includes
spending a fair amount of time on the road, visiting the stores
in his territory and walking the stores with the management
team to identify opportunities for improvement. “The best part
of my job is being down on the retail floor, interacting with the
customers and the employees,” Allen says. “I love talking with
employees about how their job is treating them and having
them tell me what they are doing to make a difference at the
store. I also enjoy talking with the customers and getting their
thoughts about what we can do to improve our stores.”
One of the most rewarding parts of his job, according to Allen,
is helping others attain their career goals with Hy-Vee.
Hy-Vee CEO Randy Edeker has done this
for Allen throughout his career.
“I worked with Randy Edeker when I was in Kansas City before
he became the CEO. He was in a position similar to what I have
today,” says Allen. “He always challenged me and gave me the
opportunity to prove myself. From that first time he came in and
walked our store, I knew I wanted to have the job I have today.”
Today, Allen has the job he longed for and now he
enjoys helping others to achieve their goals. “I’ve worked
with multiple employees throughout my career to help
them get where they want to go with their careers.”
Allen and his wife, Sara, live in Johnston, Iowa, with their four
children—Rylee, 16; Levi, 11; Blake 7; and Max, 4. He enjoys
spending time with his busy family, fishing and playing golf.
“I’m honored to join the board and I look forward to
contributing what I’ve learned over the past 28 years
in retail to help benefit the association.” IG
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IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
IGIA Board Adds Independent
Grocer Jill Eilderts
The Iowa Grocery Industry Association recently welcomed independent grocer Jill Eilderts, co-owner
of stores in Waterloo and Traer, Iowa, to the ranks of its board of directors. She brings a proven
track record of hard work, business acumen and community leadership that will be great assets.
Eilderts never anticipated owning a
grocery store when she started working
at Hometown Foods in January 1987. She
was attending the University of Northern
Iowa in pursuit of her Elementary
Education degree. When she graduated,
teaching jobs were scarce. Eilderts
continued to work at the store while
substitute teaching until the owner, Mark
Adams, offered her a full-time job as the
bookkeeper in January 1992.
The role of bookkeeper soon morphed
into office manager. The store, which was
called Adams Grocery then, had not yet
converted to barcode scanners. As the
bookkeeper and office manager, Eilderts
was placed in charge of the conversion
to a new scanning system in 1994. When
Adams sold the store to Lyndon Johnson,
the store became Hometown Foods and
Eilderts became the office manager/
scanning coordinator. Her duties
included payroll, scanning, scheduling
and a multitude of other tasks. Then
in December 2007, Johnson promoted
Eilderts to store manager.
“I always told Lyndon if he decided to
sell the store, I’d like to be the first to
know,” Jill recalls. That day came early
in 2019 when Johnson decided to sell.
“It took me a couple of months, but my
husband and I agreed that if we didn’t
try it, we’d regret it.”
Jill and her husband, Doug, worked
together at the store when it was Adams
Grocery. Doug had been the bakery/deli
manager in the early ’90s. Jill’s son, Matt,
from her first marriage was four when Jill
and Doug married in 1994.
Jill and Doug purchased the store on
May 1, 2019, keeping the name on
the building the same but calling the
business KFD Grocery. Son Matt, 30, is
married to Ashley and they have children
Kael, 8; Finley, 3; and Declan, 1. Their
initials make up the KFD in KFD Grocery.
Doug had been the business manager
at a metal fabrication shop, Midwest
CNC, and has always been Jill’s biggest
supporter and business partner in
operating the grocery store in Waterloo.
“Without him I’d never have had the
guts to do this,” she says. “He is my
backbone.” According to Jill, after Doug
had finished his day at the fabrication
shop, he would show up at the store to
see what needed to be done. “We run
this business very much together. I really
couldn’t do it without him.”
Hometown Foods, located in the
middle of an established Waterloo
neighborhood, provides a convenient
full-service grocery option for its
residents and is known for its wide
selection of eastern European foods and
fresh never-been-frozen meat.
Hometown Foods partners with Lowell
Elementary School, providing support
for school events and fulfilling special
requests. Eilderts also supports the local
Alzheimer’s Walk. Her mother suffers
with the disease and Jill is eager to make
a difference. In addition, every year,
Eilderts loads up a grill and donates her
time, hot dogs and chips to the Liberty
Park Neighborhood Association’s Night
Out in the Park event.
Jill credits former owner and IGIA board
member Lyndon Johnson with lessons
that have helped her to succeed. “I
respected the way Lyndon always
jumped in to do whatever needed to be
done. As the owner, he was never above
unloading the truck or rolling up his
sleeves to do anything. I learned so much
from him about dealing with people.”
Jill and Doug recently purchased a
second store from Johnson in September
2020. “We realized Lyndon was getting
ready to sell it, so we inquired, and
everything just fell into place,” she says.
“It is more work, but Doug is now in
the grocery business full time, so it is
running well. He goes to Traer most
days.”
During her time on the board, Jill hopes
to provide a voice for independent
grocers, sharing their perspectives
on the issues so she might help other
independent grocers as well as the
entire grocery industry.
When Jill and Doug aren’t working, they
like to ride bicycles, hike and travel.
“We love taking trips to visit our three
grandchildren since they don’t live
near us.” IG
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iowagrocer
Longtime Industry Advocate Jeremy
Thompson Joins IGIA Board
2018 IGIA Volunteer of the Year and an outstanding supplier of alcoholic beverages to the grocery and
convenience industries, Jeremy Thompson brings unparalleled energy and experience to IGIA’s board.
Jeremy Thompson grew up in Estherville,
Iowa, and attended Estherville High
School. After graduating, he headed to
Kirkwood College in Iowa City, where
he obtained an Associate’s Degree. He
followed that degree with a Bachelor’s
of Arts degree in psychology from
Columbia College in Columbia, Mo.
Jeremy’s experience in the alcohol
industry began while managing
Mondo’s, a sports bar, in Iowa City.
Thompson left Mondo’s and moved to
Colorado for a couple of years. When
he returned to Iowa in 1998, he went to
work for Messer Distributing, which later
became Glazer’s. He left Glazer’s in 2002,
to become the vice president of sales
for Voss Distributing, selling Red Bull
Energy Drink. “The company was rapidly
evolving,” recalls Thompson, “and owner
Zac Voss got me involved in the IGIA.”
In 2007, Thompson left Voss Distributing
to become the Northern Plains division
manager for Luxco, a St. Louis-based,
family-owned producer and marketer
of distilled beverages and liqueurs.
Based on his positive experiences
with the IGIA when he was working for
Voss Distributing, Jeremy encouraged
Luxco to become a Ribbon Sponsor
and get involved in the association.
Jeremy managed a brokerage team
in Iowa for Luxco as well as managed
the company’s spirits business with
distributor partners in Nebraska, South
Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota.
After almost eight years, Jeremy
accepted his current position as the
Iowa sales manager for Sazerac. “One
of the first matters of business was to
join the IGIA and enroll in the Ribbon
Sponsor program,” Jeremy recalls.
Sazerac, another family-owned alcoholic
beverages company with headquarters
in Metairie, Louisiana, and the largest
spirits producer in the United States,
became a member and Ribbon Sponsor
in 2015 on Jeremy’s recommendation.
Thompson manages Sazerac’s adult
beverage business of more than 140
brands throughout the state of Iowa.
To accomplish his sales goals, Jeremy
builds collaborative working partnerships
with brokers, licensees and consumers
while continually delivering the highest
level of customer service possible.
On a typical day, Jeremy is in frequent
communication with the Iowa Alcoholic
Beverages Division listing items, ensuring
proper procedures and rules are followed,
staying up to date with regulation
developments, and communicating
pricing and promotions. He collaborates
with brokerage partners, Johnson
Brother’s-Wirtz Group and Southern-
Glazers Wine and Spirits to promote
brand development in the Iowa market
as well as works with retailers and onpremise
partners, fielding consumer
inquiries about Sazerac’s products.
“I enjoy meeting consumers, educating
them about our brands and watching
their excitement as they learn more
about our products,” says Jeremy.
As Jeremy moved from one company
to the next, he made sure each became
involved in the association as a member
and Ribbon Sponsor. “The IGIA has
afforded me opportunities to talk to key
decision makers in companies like Casey’s,
Kum & Go, Hy-Vee and Fareway,” he says.
Thompson has dedicated many hours
to the association and was named the
2018 IGIA Volunteer of the Year. He
serves on the Scholarship Golf and
the Convention Auction Committees.
And now, Jeremy joins the ranks
of the IGIA Board of Directors.
Outside of the grocery industry, Jeremy
sits on the Iowa Restaurant Association
Board, volunteers for The Variety Club
and Cowles Elementary School events in
addition to supporting myriad customer
causes through product donations.
Jeremy and Jennifer, his wife of 21
years, live in Des Moines with sons
Reece, 14, and Taylor, 11, and two
new “COVID cats,” Rocky and Coco,
adopted during the pandemic.
When he’s not working, Thompson
enjoys spending time with his family,
snow skiing, golfing, boating, playing
cards and cheering on the Iowa
Hawkeyes and the Denver Broncos. IG
12

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
IGIA Gains Entrepreneur Zac Voss
The Iowa Grocery Industry Association welcomes entrepreneur owner of Voss Distributing Zac Voss
to its board of directors. Voss joins the IGIA board in the hope of giving back to an industry that has
provided him with ample opportunities to build a successful business.
When he was just 12 years old, Zac Voss
asked his dad for a loan to buy a lawn
mower. This was the start of his first
business, which he eventually sold and is
still in operation today.
Voss went on to attend the University
of Iowa where he studied finance
and obtained a certificate in
entrepreneurship. During his time at
Iowa, he worked as a promoter and
marketer for local bars and restaurants
to help fill their spaces with customers.
His job as a promoter taught Voss
valuable networking and communication
skills for the business world.
During his time at the University of
Iowa, Voss was enticed by a friend, Kyle
Rooney, to try a new drink. Rooney had
just returned from Spain where Red Bull
was “the thing” to drink. Friends since
elementary school, Voss and Rooney
decided they wanted to find a way to get
Red Bull to Iowa. At the time, the shipping
costs made Red Bull too expensive to sell
profitably. Voss took it upon himself to
call Red Bull and ask how they could get
it to Iowa City for less. They told him that
they couldn’t get Red Bull to Iowa City
because there was no distributor in Iowa.
Voss responded, ‘You’re talking to him.
What do I need to do?”
In the fall of 1999, Red Bull agreed to
ship product to Voss on a trial basis
and he began selling it to campus
restaurants, bars and a few local
coffee shops. After a couple months,
he established a grocery store account
with John’s Grocery. This one account
opened many doors for Voss in the Iowa
grocery industry. In the spring of 2000,
he began selling to Hy-Vee. Demand for
the drink was growing, especially with
college students, but Voss was nearing
the completion of his degree and had
accepted a job in Connecticut to work for
a financial consulting firm.
Between the end of his senior year and
starting his new job, Voss worked as
an assistant to help a man sail his boat
around Europe. He said, “Everywhere we
sailed, I saw Red Bull.” He saw first-hand
just how popular this beverage was and
realized he might be making a mistake.
While still in Europe, Voss called Red
Bull, and finalized an agreement to
establish a distribution center in Iowa.
He immediately launched into writing a
business plan. When he returned home,
he had his business plan printed on
a six-foot tall Red Bull can replica and
used that in his business pitches. Voss
called distributors in other locations to
help him set benchmarks for Iowa. On
his three-dimensional business plan,
he included his mission and strategy
for distributing Red Bull to retailers
throughout the state.
After being awarded a contract with
Red Bull, he got to work forming an elite
team that could help him accomplish his
mission. Fellow board member Jeremy
Thompson was a part of that team.
Voss Distributing specializes in route
sales and direct store delivery, meaning
shipments do not go through a
warehouse. Voss Distributing works to
create a relationship with retailers to
ensure the product is being taken care of
so they can continue to grow the business.
Twenty years ago, the energy drink
category barely existed in the United
States. Voss and his team have
experienced tremendous growth thanks
in part to his involvement in the IGIA.
Today, Voss Distributing operates 10
warehouses located in Iowa, Missouri and
South Dakota. The company’s employees
end their days in 19 different towns, as
they make their mark across the Midwest.
Voss joins the IGIA board in the hope
of giving back to an industry that has
provided him with ample opportunities
to build a successful business.
Voss lives in the Des Moines area with
Sarah, his wife, and their children
daughter Mia, 12; son Theo, 9; and
daughter Olive, 6. He enjoys spending
time with his family, running, sailing,
flying, traveling and volunteering for his
kids’ school activities.
Voss reflects, “I have a beautiful, smart
and loving wife. My three kids are happy,
healthy and lots of fun. I continue to learn
so much about business and our industry
from my employees, our customers and
through interaction with vendors. I am
grateful to be working in this industry.” IG
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iowagrocer
Thinking
about 2021
in public policy and business
by Jennifer Hatcher, chief public policy officer & SVP,
Government Relations, FMI—The Food Industry Association
From early March to the present, we have been
focused on COVID-19 and the urgent needs in public
policy and in business—protecting associates, social
distancing customers, ensuring product is on the shelves
and adapting to an increasingly online environment.
As we continue to adapt to the new normal of COVID-19
and look toward 2021, we know that newly elected or newly
reelected public officials and new policies will impact our
businesses and customers in dramatically different ways.
18

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Provided by The Food Industry Association
Public policy and business
While this same critical juncture is undoubtedly upon you at the state and local levels, I wanted to
first outline some of these critical considerations driving potential policy changes federally.
There are a number of significant
differences in policy and process that
will likely impact your businesses,
customers and communities;
but below are three of the most
important drivers that we wanted
to get on your radar early.
Taxes. The pandemic disrupted
the economy in an unprecedented
way, causing businesses to close
and leaving many workers without
jobs. The resulting unemployment
insurance hole and lower tax revenue
collections will likely lead to a rise in
state and local taxes at a rate even
greater than the 2008 recession. While
state and local tax considerations are
undoubtedly significant, through his
presidential campaign platform, Joe
Biden outlined his clear support for
an increase in the corporate tax rate,
the individual tax rate and the capital
gains tax rate to fund infrastructure
and other budgetary needs. We all
need to have these policy proposals
and their implications on our radar.
Leadership. The difference between
a trifecta—one political party holding
a majority in all three bodies (the
House, Senate and White House)—
and a divided government is one of
speed and scope of policy changes.
Democratic control of the White
House, the House of Representatives
and the Senate, would impact both the
speed and scope of policy impact. The
last Democrat trifecta occurred after
the 2008 election of President Obama
and lasted for two years from 2009–
2011, which brought the major policy
changes of the Affordable Care Act
(Obamacare), an economic stimulus
package (the American Reform and
Recovery Act), and bank stabilization
(Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform).
The last Republican trifecta happened
after the 2016 election of Donald
Trump, lasted for two years from
2017 to 2019 and brought the policy
changes of tax reform (lower corporate
and individual rates) and the repeal of
the Obamacare individual mandate.
Since we understand and have
witnessed Republican priorities
under the current Administration
and current Senate Republican
leadership, we have looked closely at
anticipated 2021 Democrat priorities.
While the pandemic, vaccines and
stimulus will remain top of mind
for all, Democratic priorities could
bring tax increases, a public option
for health insurance for all, climate
change legislation, unionization/
labor reform, a federal minimum
wage increase, infrastructure projects
and economic stimulus focused
on individuals. Potential reform of
our electronic payments system,
pharmacy benefit manager (PBM)
reform and enhanced food assistance
programs are policies on the positive
side that new leadership might allow.
While leadership makes broad policy
changes possible, it is the filibuster that
has generally slowed this progress.
Filibuster. President James Buchanan
coined the phrase, “The world’s
greatest deliberative body,” when
describing the United States Senate
more than 150 years ago. Frank
Capra then put this deliberation and
a demonstration of the checks and
balances the Senate provides on the
big screen in 1939 with Jimmy Stewart
in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
Revising this filibuster rule and thus
increasing the speed of potential
policy changes is at the top of some
Democrats’ wish lists. The rule has
already been revised twice—using
an approach once known as the
“nuclear option,” because it was
seen as a last resort—to get judges
approved more quickly. This change
allowed the Republican-controlled
Senate to confirm Administration
appointees and judges with a simple
majority vote, as seen with the recent
Supreme Court Justice confirmation.
Democratic Senate leaders will
almost certainly seek a third round of
filibuster reforms to allow non-judicial
policy changes, such as tax increases,
to also move forward with 51 votes
without the threat of a filibuster.
As we enter 2021, we need to
consider these potential changes
and their possible impact on our
businesses and our associates with
the recognition of the important role
this election plays in policy outcomes.
First on our 2021 agenda is getting to
know all of these newly elected and
appointed officials and teaching them
about the food industry. Each of you
is the key to making that happen! IG
19

iowagrocer
Your Hometown Grocer: Clint Miller, Freeman Foods with stores in North English and Wellman, Iowa
Caretakers of the community
When a town loses its businesses, it loses the caretakers of the community. The people who own small
businesses in town often are the people who really care about the community. They care about their
customers and about people in general. When there is a need, they do everything they can to help.
Clint Miller grew up on a farm
four miles outside of Wellman, Iowa,
where his rural Iowa upbringing
taught him to care about others. He
attended Iowa Mennonite School
(now called Hillcrest Academy),
a small country school located
in rural Wellman and worked for
Fareway in Iowa City throughout
high school. After graduation, he
enrolled in Indian Hills College in
Ottumwa, Iowa, but had a revelation
after just one day. “I realized sitting
in the classroom that first day
that I was done with school.”
In the following days, he returned to
Fareway, where he began working
full time. After a year and a half,
he contemplated enrolling in the
company’s management training
program but with a wife and family,
at that point, he did not relish the
idea of having to move around
to complete the program. “I liked
working at Fareway. I really enjoyed
what I was doing, but moving
wasn’t a sacrifice that we were
willing to make. Being near family
means too much to us,” he says.
Miller is one of four siblings and
Nicole, his wife, is one of five
siblings with 18 children among
all the siblings. Their parents and
all the siblings and cousins all live
within 15 minutes of each other.
Miller finds a new path
Miller was at a bit of loss for what
to do next. His family raised hogs
and crops, and while there was a lot
he enjoyed about farm work, like
how it had helped him establish a
good work ethic for which he was
grateful, he knew that farming
was not his passion. “I just didn’t
feel called to pursue farming as a
career.” Miller learned a lot from
his dad by watching how he lived
life, but he would put those lessons
to work in a different field.
A course correction
leads to life’s work
He ended up taking a construction
job building hog barns, pole
buildings, machine sheds and other
similar structures. He had been
working construction for about two
years when the owner of Freeman
Foods, Bob Freeman, reached out
to him. “Bob knew I had worked
at Fareway. He gave me a call and
invited me to an Iowa football game,
and we talked all the way there and
back.” Through the course of that
outing, Freeman asked Miller to
become his business partner and to
eventually buy the store from him
when he retired. “It just felt kind
of natural,” Miller remembers. “I
talked to my wife and it seemed this
was where God was leading us.”
Miller worked with Freeman helping
him run the business for the next
two and half years when he began
the process of securing a Small
Business Administration loan to
purchase the store in Wellman.
The loan process took more than
six months to complete. While they
waited, Freeman walked into the
20

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
store one day and said, “I’m ready
to be done. You’re in charge. I’m
not going to be here on Monday.”
Freeman had grown weary waiting
for the loan, and instead of waiting
any longer, he gave Miller full
control of the decision-making along
with the bank accounts. “I look back
on that now in awe of the faith
he placed in me,” Miller says. “I’m
thankful for the relationship we had
and the trust he showed me.” The
loan was finally approved in March
2013, and Miller officially became
the owner of the 10,000-squarefoot
store in Wellman.
Not long after in the nearby
town of North English, a new
and inexperienced store owner
struggled to keep the town’s only
grocery store open. In July 2015,
the store closed and the town was
without a store until Miller decided
to purchase it too in May 2016.
While there is a certain amount
of risk inherent in buying any
business, Miller wasn’t worried. “I
had full confidence it was going
to work out,” he recalls. “Bob
Freeman actually came out of
retirement for a few months and
helped me get the store going.”
Store number two
proves successful
Freeman silently worried about
the risk his friend was taking in
purchasing the 9,000-square-foot
store in North English, but sales
at the store grew steadily month
over month. That is until a dollar
store opened just down the road
in 2017. “While our sales have not
declined, the steady growth we
saw has leveled off,” Miller says.
“It’s never a good thing when
you have competition that close.
Their presence affects certain
items more than others, but we
continue to have a good business.”
(Left to right) Linda Adams, Ryan Bontrager, Clint Miller and Dennis Young
welcome you to Freeman Foods of North English.
Competitor moves in
too close for comfort
Miller says he will have a clearer
picture of the dollar store’s impact
soon. The Wellman City Council
voted on September 8, 2020,
to approved Dollar General’s
application of annexation in
Wellman. “I have a much longer
history of sales data to compare
to at our Wellman store and see
what areas are impacted when
this dollar store opens,” he says.
Other competition includes a
nearby Costco in Iowa City. Miller
says that a lot of people who live in
North English and work in Iowa City
can easily shop the bigger stores
located in Iowa City before or after
work. Miller doesn’t believe online
retailers like Amazon pose a big
threat to his business. “Online is a
concern, but right now, I don’t think
we are losing much business to it.”
COVID brings new challenges
Another challenge all grocers
faced this year was the arrival of
the pandemic. Clint and Nicole
happened to be on vacation in
St. Marten. “We arrived there
on March 13 and COVID hit
March 15. They canceled our
flight a few hours after we got
there and we found ourselves
suddenly stranded,” he recalls.
“We enjoyed one day of vacation
and then spent the rest of the time
figuring out how to get back.”
They returned to Iowa a couple days
later and spent the next two weeks
in quarantine at home. This was less
than ideal since there was a rush
21

iowagrocer
Your Hometown Grocer: Clint Miller, Freeman Foods with stores in North English and Wellman, Iowa
Being a caretaker
Freeman Foods is always ready to lend a hand to meet the needs of the community.
at both stores during the onset
of the pandemic, but it provided
a unique opportunity to evaluate
his team under pressure. “I was so
proud of the way our management
teams stepped up and got the job
done. Both stores set up e-mail
ordering, curb side pickup and
delivery within a week’s time.”
Freeman Foods plays key
role in the community
Between the two stores, Clint
has 15 full-time employees and
about 25 part-time employees.
Those jobs are not only important
to the people who have them
but to the community as a
whole, according to Miller.
“If a community doesn’t provide
employment opportunities, then
it becomes strictly a bedroom
community,” he says. “The more
that happens, the more you lose
the sense of community. If you
stop going into local businesses,
you don’t have the opportunity
to interact with local people.
Life gets lonely when you don’t
have any support structure.
If something goes wrong,
who are you going to call?”
Miller goes on to explain the
importance of supporting local
businesses saying that when a town
loses its businesses, it also loses
the caretakers of the community.
“The people who own small
businesses in town are oftentimes
people who really care about the
community. They care about their
customers and about people in
general. When there is a need, they
do everything they can to help,”
he says. “Many small towns have
been decimated in recent years.
Rural populations are declining
as people seek opportunities
in larger communities.”
Clint is part of the Wellman
Chamber and as such he helps
fund community events like the
Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Santa
Clause Comes to Town and Fourth
of July Festivities. The town of 1,400
spends $15,000 on fireworks, a
display that pulls in visitors from
surrounding communities.
The store also supports schools,
churches, town needs, and an
organization called, Focus on the
Family, which provides resources
for families, ideas for being active
with your kids and ways to live
a Christ-centered life. They also
donate to Water for Life, an
organization that digs wells in Haiti
to bring residents clean drinking
water while at the same time
sharing the message of Jesus.
“We feel that God has blessed us,
a couple of kids who never went to
college, leading us to the grocery
business where I make a good living
and can have a positive impact not
only in our communities but in the
broader community of the world.”
God and family first
Clint and Nicole have been
married for 18 years, and live
about three miles outside of
Wellman with their four children—
daughters Lilly, 13 and Ruby,
11; son Wyatt, 8; and daughter,
Hadley, 4. They attend and are
active in the Kalona Mennonite
Church in Kalona, Iowa. Both have
taught Sunday school and Nicole
has served in many different
capacities at the church. IG
22

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
PHOTOS
1. The Miller family on vacation in the
Dominican Republic in January 2020.
L to R: Hadley, Wyatt, Ruby, Lily, Nicole
and Clint.
2. Clint Miller stands next to shelves of
fresh produce. These produce cases
have doors to add energy efficiency
and to keep produce fresher longer.
3. Freeman Foods of North English offers
a full-service meat department for the
community of 1,000.
4. A great selection of produce is a must
for keeping customers happy.
5. Checkout Rachel Phillips has a friendly
visit with customer Nick Gabriel as she
bags his purchases.
1 2
3
4
5
23

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iowagrocer
Getting to know your IGIA staff: Michelle Hurd, IGIA president
Leading the team
Michelle Hurd grew up in Slater, Iowa, and graduated from Ballard High School. The eldest of three
children, Michelle enjoyed being big sister to younger siblings, Dylan and Meghan. She also loved
watching and playing sports from an early age.
In high school, she ran cross country
and track, and played basketball and
softball, but her unrivaled favorite was
basketball.
“A few of my favorite memories are of
being a part of a highly competitive team,”
she recalls. “I was fortunate to play at the
Iowa Girls’ State Basketball tournaments
at the Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium in
Des Moines my junior and senior years.”
Michelle’s first job
Michelle’s first job was working at a
grocery store, Town and Country Market,
located in Slater, where she was employed
throughout high school. After high school,
Michelle earned a Bachelor’s of Science
degree in marketing from Upper Iowa
University. Since then, Michelle has
accumulated 22 years of experience in
association management. She came to
IGIA from the Iowa State Bar Association in
March 2006 and was promoted from vice
president, marketing and membership,
to become the IGIA president in 2012.
Michelle has also worked for the Iowa
Motor Truck Association as director of
communications and education, and the
Iowa Great Lakes Chamber of Commerce
as program director.
Importance of having a mentor
Michelle credits longtime friend and mentor,
Brenda Neville, the president & CEO of the
Iowa Motor Truck Association, for placing
her career on a positive trajectory.
“I am eternally grateful to Brenda. She is
a great communicator and tremendous
advocate for the trucking industry and is
someone I have always held in the highest
regard,” Michelle explains. “She has been
my mentor for more than 20 years and
introduced me to association management
when I was just entering the workforce.
She provided me with opportunities that I
will always be extremely grateful for. I have
watched and admired the positive impact
she has on those around her—lifting others
to reach their highest potential.”
As president of the association, Michelle
leads association staff, board and members
in defining and fulfilling the organization’s
mission and vision, as well as, oversees
operations, government relations,
communications and events.
A long list of achievements
During the past 14 years with the
association, Michelle has pioneered
a number of initiatives and has been
recognized for numerous achievements.
In 2011, Michelle earned a Certified
Association Executive (CAE) designation,
awarded to association leaders who
demonstrate the highest professional
standards, individual performance and
knowledge essential to the practice of
association management. Certification
candidates must meet five criteria
for eligibility, including 100 hours of
professional development as well as pass
a rigorous examination covering 156
competencies in nine knowledge domains.
Michelle was named the Association Staff
Professional of the Year by the Iowa Society
of Association Executives in 2012. She
received the award for her 14-year track
record in working with associations in
Des Moines and for her outstanding work
representing IGIA members.
The national grocery industry trade
publication, Progressive Grocer, published
by Stagnito Business Information included
Michelle among its list of Top Women in
Grocery Award recipients in 2015.
28

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
“I am grateful to the IGIA Board of
Directors for the opportunity to serve
as president of the association. I am very
proud of the team we’ve assembled here
and the commitment of the entire staff
to continue building on the foundation of
excellence that has been forged over the
association’s 121-year history,” she says.
“I’m extremely fortunate to be a part of a
great team, led by a tremendous board
of directors and industry leaders.”
Finding satisfaction in
leading a team
From the time she played basketball in
high school to every position she has
held throughout her career, Michelle
has enjoyed being part of and leading a
team. This, she says, above all else is what
brings her satisfaction and enjoyment.
“The best part of my job is empowering
my team to do their best.”
Although she has hung up her jersey,
Michelle still loves sports. “Today, I mostly
take in sports from the sidelines instead
of playing them. I love watching my kids’
activities and cheering them on as they
compete,” she says.
Putting family first
Son, Kale, who just turned 14, is in eighth
grade. He enjoys hanging out with friends
and playing baseball and basketball,
but baseball is his favorite activity, and
Michelle’s family spends summers at the
baseball field, cheering him on. Daughter,
Reagan, who turns 12 in November, is in
sixth grade. Reagan’s passion is dance,
and she spends many hours each week at
the dance studio practicing as a member
of a competitive dance team.
Family always has been central to Michelle’s
life. “My mom is one of six girls so I grew up
spending a lot of time with a large extended
family. Every Sunday after church, aunts,
uncles, cousins would all go over to my
grandma’s for lunch. I valued the love
and support of family so much growing
up, I wanted my kids to have that same
experience so we spend a lot of time with
Meet the Hurd family (left to right): Michelle, Kale, Reagan and Matt.
“I’m extremely fortunate
to be a part of a great
team, led by a tremendous
board of directors and
industry leaders.”
family. I’m proud to say that Kale and
Reagan also cherish their time with family.”
Michelle’s dad, Gene, worked for Ballard
Community Schools and is retired. Her
mom, Tami, is a school nurse at Ballard
Middle School. Today, her brother Dylan
works at the Iowa Air National Guard
and her sister, Meghan, works for Pepsi.
Maintaining a thankful heart
Michelle says her parents have played a
key role in who she is today and what she
values in life. “My parents made a great
combination. Mom led her life and her
family with faith and love. It’s important
to me to try and carry that on to my kids.
My dad has always been someone to
push me and motivated me to do the
best I can in every part of my life. I talk
to both of my parents daily and am very
grateful to have them close and for the
love and support they provide my family.”
Michelle has been married for 16 years to
Matt Hurd, who is co-owner of Hanifen,
Inc., a towing and recovery company. They
attended the same high school but Matt is
six years older so they didn’t start dating
until after college. Matt and Michelle
share a love of sports and the outdoors.
“We are both huge Iowa Hawkeye fans.
We officially met while cheering on the
Hawkeyes at the Big Ten Men’s Basketball
tournament in Chicago.”
When she’s not working, Michelle likes
walking the family pets—Labradors, Nile,
9, and Rizzo, 4 months. She also enjoys
biking, boating, having a glass of wine
with friends, cheering on the Hawkeyes
and volunteering weekly at the church
food pantry.
“Relationships are extremely important
to me,” she says. “That’s why I try to make
sure that people feel appreciated and
understand what they mean to me. This
applies to my family, friends, teammates,
everyone.” IG
29

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Through the Debit Transaction Looking Glass
Pandemic Spending
by Dan Kramer, SVP Government and Community Affairs, SHAZAM
The SHAZAM debit network
provides financial institutions with
processing services for debit cards and
ATMs. Recently SHAZAM took a look at
consumer spending through the lens
of our network transactional data. By
examining the data, we uncovered
some interesting trends at retail and
in the financial institution community.
During the onset of the pandemic,
we began to monitor ATM activity,
anticipating a possible run on cash.
Interestingly enough, the data
provided no indication that people
were running to the ATMs that we
service. The SHAZAM Network handles
the processing for about 10,000
ATMs. In fact, there were far fewer
abnormalities in how consumers
treated the opening days of the
pandemic than one would expect.
The one exception took place as the
federal government began to
distribute financial assistance through
incentive checks and deposits to
consumers. We did see small spikes in
cash withdrawals for a few days after
those checks and deposits started
hitting cardholder deposit accounts.
Of greater interest to us, however,
was how the retail and financial
institution communities would
be impacted from a spending
perspective. As you can imagine, there
were significant declines in several
merchant categories due to changes
in consumer spending behavior.
SHAZAM currently processes
transactions for more than 10 million
cardholders in 38 states. We’ve
outlined some of the SHAZAM card
holder spending impacts we saw by
sector below.
Travel—As expected, the travel
industry was the hardest hit with
an immediate 60 percent decline in
spending. Other segments suffered
but not as much as travel.
Dining—Restaurants and quick
service restaurants, we’re also
negatively impacted, each with about
the same amount of decline in spend
as they made the transition to delivery
options.
Grocery and Petroleum—While
there were minimal initial declines
in grocery and petroleum purchases,
these sectors managed to stay within
a reasonable amount of the previous
year’s debit transaction levels.
Across all sectors, electronic
transactions at point of sale declined
somewhat in the initial phase
of the pandemic as many states
recommended sheltering in place
and consumers turned to making
purchases online.
However, the electronic payment
landscape looks much different today
than it did during the first 120 days
of the pandemic. Most segments
have rebounded significantly, if not
completely. Based upon the spending
that we are seeing from our cardholding
consumers, it is hard to
believe we are in a pandemic. As of
late October 2020, when this article
was being written, the chart below
outlines where debit transactions are
compared to the same time frame
last year. The data points to home
improvement as a primary beneficiary
of the pandemic, up significantly above
this time last year. Overall, consumers
have continued to spend at a rapid rate.
DEBIT TRANSACTION VIEW
OF PANDEMIC SPENDING
Grocery & Wholesale. .........-8%
Petroleum. ..................-4%
Restaurant & QSR .......... -4.1%
Travel. .....................-19%
All Other . ................+19.5%
E-Commerce Transactions. .. +42%
32

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
SHAZAM Network transaction totals are above last year’s
transaction totals at the same time.
As noted, while transaction totals had been somewhat
negatively impacted initially, transactions continue to
rebound at about a two percent clip per month. The
more detrimental impact has been a significant increase
in fraud for retailers. SHAZAM performs fraud monitoring
for the 1,400 financial institutions it serves, looking for
anomalies in spending and tracking consumer behavior.
We use that information to predict fraud at retail, in an
effort to prevent that fraud from occurring.
As noted in the table left, there has been a 42-percent
increase in e-commerce transactions, and along with that,
an exponential increase in fraud at retailer locations. In
addition to the fraud, retailers have seen an increase in
costs for those same transactions due to the nature of
the interchange structure around them. MasterCard and
VISA have certain rules in place that prevent independent
debit networks like SHAZAM from authorizing those
transactions on the retailer’s behalf at substantially lower
costs to both retailers and financial institutions. That is
why SHAZAM continues to work on behalf of retailers
to encourage federal regulators to ensure fair routing
competition as required by the Durbin amendment.
As we navigate the pandemic, SHAZAM remains steadfast
in its commitment to keep retailers, financial institutions
and consumers safe from fraud and from over paying for
transactions, now and no matter what the future brings. IG
33

iowagrocer
IGIA Sponsorship & Advertising Opportunities Provide
Visibility, Access, Leadership
The relationship between retailers, suppliers and wholesalers within our
membership is unmatched, and the investment you make as an advertiser or
sponsor gets noticed.
Ribbon sponor recognition in the iowa grocer magazine
At the Iowa Grocery Industry
Association, we always strive to
ensure that your sponsorship and
advertising investments contribute
to your continued success, even and
especially amid shifts in business
and life. This past year, the IGIA has
coordinated with numerous agencies
and organizations to provide essential
resources. It helped to ensure
employer liability protections and
worked closely with the governor
on bottle redemption relief. The
Association has developed events and
education opportunities, virtual and
in person. The IGIA has created new
ways to continue to provide visibility,
networking and online exposure for
advertisers, event sponsors and for
Ribbon Sponsors.
You can expect the IGIA to keep
delivering new opportunities for
networking, advertising, education
and resources as we move forward.
You can rest assured that we will
find innovative ways to meet your
business goals and expand on the
value you gain from advertising, for
sponsoring an event or from being a
Ribbon Sponsor.
Ribbon Sponsor Program
Ribbon Sponsorship is one of the most
direct and impactful ways to support
the Iowa Grocery Industry Association
and its members. In return, you receive
visibility, access and leadership. The
IGIA’s Ribbon Sponsor program has
always provided a great return on
investment. As we move forward, we
will continue to look for ever-evolving
ways to bring ribbon sponsors direct
business value by offering a variety of
outlets and events, both virtual and
in person to increase the VISIBILITY
of your organization, provide you
with ACCESS to industry leaders and
the opportunity to build key industry
connections. Finally, the IGIA Ribbon
Sponsor program will continue to
showcase your great LEADERSHIP
and support of Iowa’s grocery and
convenience industries.
All Ribbon Sponsors receive:
• New in 2021: An exclusive
opportunity to participate in the
IGIA Convention Perks Package
to be distributed to all attendees.
(Example – product, coupon or
swag item)
• Recognition in all four issues of
the iowa grocer magazine
• Recognition in all issues of
EScanner electronic newsletter
• Recognition on sponsor banners
(digital and print) at all of IGIA’s
premiere events including Annual
Convention, Fall Golf and Hall of
Fame Dinner
NEW in 2021!
IGIA Ribbon Sponsors receive an exclusive
opportunity to participate in an IGIA Convention
Perks Package to be distributed to all attendees.
(The Perks Package allows you to include a
product, coupon or swag item to boost your
visibility with all IGIA members.)
34

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
ADVERTISING OPTIONS
IGIA Website
iowa grocer magazine
EScanner Weekly News
• Recognition with your logo on the sponsor page of
IGIA’s website: www.iowagrocers.com
• Plus, Ribbon Sponsors receive a complimentary ad in
the Convention issue of the magazine, a discount on
Fall Golf sponsorship, complimentary registrations
to Annual Convention and Hall of Fame Dinner and
a discount on advertising, adding to the long list of
reasons to consider becoming an IGIA Ribbon Sponsor.
Questions? Contact Cara Corkrean, director of membership
and operations, ccorkrean@iowagrocers.com
Event Sponsorship
NEW—Inspired by a desire to deliver visibility to event
sponsors at a time when some events had to be postponed,
the IGIA Convention Perks Package provides a unique
extra opportunity to get your logo and products in front
of all convention attendees.
The IGIA holds several events throughout the year to
provide networking opportunities for our members, to
raise scholarship funds for youth with ties to the grocery
industry and to further the industry’s best interests on
Capitol Hill. IGIA events are well attended and represent
Iowa’s strong, united grocery industry. What better way
to connect with key grocery industry executives?
Questions? Contact Annie Schlink, events coordinator,
aschlink@iowagrocers.com
Advertising Opportunities
The IGIA offers a variety of affordable and effective
advertising options.
iowa grocer magazine—As the official publication of
the Iowa Grocery Industry Association, the iowa grocer
magazine provides an extensive, targeted circulation,
allowing you to deliver your message to your target
audiences four times a year. Again this year, IGIA will be
offering three unique specialty ad formats in the iowa
grocer magazine. Designed to make you stand out, these
options include a belly band, a tabbed-in insert and a
cover gatefold for your consideration.
EScanner — Another great option for visibility and a
way to showcase your involvement in the Association is
through an advertisement in the Association’s weekly
electronic newsletter. Viewed by approximately 1,500
industry leaders from all sectors of the grocery industry,
EScanner contains IGIA announcements, store openings
and closings, legislative and regulatory updates, food
recalls, industry trends, supplier news and more.
Website Advertising — The IGIA also offers web ads on
its website: www.iowagrocers.com. IGIA web advertisers
can capture the attention of an estimated 6,000 visitors
to our website each month, providing great visibility and
recognition with an attention-grabbing web ad.
Questions about advertising? Contact Cara Corkrean,
director of membership and operations, ccorkrean@
iowagrocers.com. IG
35

iowagrocer
IGIA Announces 2021-2022 IGEF Scholarship Program
Deadline to Apply
March 1, 2021
Submitted an application by March 1, 2021, to be eligible for one of the many Iowa
Grocers Education Foundation (IGEF) scholarships for the 2021–2022 academic year.
IGEF Board of Trustees
❖ Brian Burnam, Keith’s Foods | Mike Brewington, Iowa Beverage Systems
❖ Bob Gostomski, Mueller Yurgae Associates | Mike Skokan, Hy-Vee Inc.
❖ Dean Summa, Wells Enterprises
Applications must be submitted
by March 1, 2021 to be eligible
for one of the many Iowa Grocers
Education Foundation (IGEF)
scholarships for the 2021–2022
academic year.
Get Involved
Two primary fundraisers make the IGEF Scholarships
possible—the IGEF Scholarship Golf Classic and the IGIA
Convention Auction. Please consider taking part in these
events and signing up for the IGIA committees that make
these events possible. Contact Annie Schlink, aschlink@
iowagrocers.com to volunteer.
The IGEF will award 12 — $2,000
scholarships to students who are
children of full-time employees
and 12 — $1,500 scholarships to
students who are full-time or parttime
employees of firms that are
members of the Iowa Grocery
Industry Association (IGIA) as well as
many Piggyback scholarships offered
by IGIA member organizations.
IGIA will e-mail scholarship posters
and application instructions to
retailers in December 2020. If
you need printed posters or have
any questions, please contact
Ann Seuferer at the IGIA office,
800.383.3663.
36

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Eligibility
High school seniors, college freshmen,
sophomores and juniors who are:
1. Sons or daughters of full-time
employees of firms that are
members of the IGIA. The parent
must have been employed for
at least two years as of January
1, 2021.
2. Employees (full-time or parttime)
who are full-time students
employed by firms that are
members of the IGIA. Applicants
must have worked a minimum of
300 hours during the six-month
period between July 1, 2020 and
December 31, 2020.
Scholarship winners will be chosen by
the Scholarship Selection Committee
of the Iowa College Foundation and
notified in April. Winners must enroll
in undergraduate college in the fall
of 2021 and must be attending
college full time in the year in which
the scholarships are awarded and
continue in school for the entire
academic year without interruption,
barring illness, emergency or military
service.
To Apply
For a list of scholarship available to
IGEF eligible students, please visit the
IGIA website, www.iowagrocers.com
and click on Scholarship Program to
access a complete list of scholarships
available and the application form.
History of the Iowa Grocers
Education Foundation Mary I.
Fitzgerald Scholarship Program
The Iowa Grocers Education
Foundation was established in
1992 to assist youth with ties to the
grocery industry achieve their dreams
of obtaining a higher education.
The IGEF Scholarship program was
renamed the Mary I. Fitzgerald
Scholarship Program in 1997 in
tribute to Mary I. Fitzgerald, who
guided the Iowa Grocery Industry
Association from 1964 to 1981.
Since 2001, the IGEF has helped
1,679 youth obtain a post-secondary
education with awards totaling
more than $2.5 million. In 2020, 90
recipients were awarded a total of
$159,300. These scholarships pave
the way for youth to achieve their
ultimate career goals within and
outside of the grocery industry.
A large number of the deserving
young people assisted by these
scholarships say that they would not
be the doctor, CEO, nurse, teacher
or business professional they are
today without the help of the Mary
I. Fitzgerald Scholarship Program. IG
Gift History
Year
# Scholarships
Awarded
Amount
Awarded
❖ 2001 62 $56,600
❖ 2002 63 $64,600
❖ 2003 72 $72,700
❖ 2004 82 $84,100
❖ 2005 86 $108,850
❖ 2006 81 $105,850
❖ 2007 85 $107,250
❖ 2008 86 $138,850
❖ 2009 86 $139,750
❖ 2010 85 $138,350
❖ 2011 87 $139,350
❖ 2012 86 $141,300
❖ 2013 82 $136,600
❖ 2014 91 $149,100
❖ 2015 91 $146,650
❖ 2016 92 $148,600
❖ 2017 91 $149,350
❖ 2018 90 $162,350
For more information on Piggyback Scholarships
or about the IGEF, call Michelle Hurd at 800-383-3663
or email her at mhurd@iowagrocers.com.
❖ 2019 89 $160,600
❖ 2020 90 $159,300
Total $2,510,100
37

Each company featured here provides products that many Iowa
retailers carry in their stores and Iowa consumers enjoy. As you will
see, most of the products are made here in our great state, which isn’t
surprising, given the work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit of Iowans.
Acosta Sales & Marketing
Jacksonville, Florida
A privately held sales and marketing
agency, Acosta has more than 100
offices around the world with over
30,000 employees. Founded over 90
years ago, we are the sales and marketing powerhouse behind the
most recognized brands and a proven resource for top retailers all
across the United States, the UK and Canada. We know consumers
shop at different types of stores for different reasons. That’s why
we specialize in penetrating new channels and growing businesses
across the entire retail spectrum.
Acosta’s flexible services provide maximize efficiency that drives
greater sales and market share for manufacturers and retailers
around the world. Learn more at Acosta.com about how our values,
services to include experiential marketing and, most importantly,
our people can help you grow. In Iowa, contact Mark Davisson, Vice
President/team leader in the Urbandale office at 515-829-3563.
AE Dairy
Des Moines, Iowa
When AE Dairy opened in Des Moines in
1930, little did we know that decades later,
we’d be one of the few remaining familyowned
dairies in the entire United States. Founded by Iver Erickson
and his childhood friend William Anderson, this east-side dairy is still
managed by third-generation Erickson family members and employs
over 350 workers whom we consider family.
The secret to AE Dairy’s success is simple: We believe goodness
takes time. That’s why we follow time-honored family recipes and set
ridiculously high standards. We use only the highest-quality milk from
Iowa family farms, so it’s hours fresh when it hits store shelves. We don’t
take shortcuts. We taste each product every Thursday to make sure it’s
just right. And we’re constantly creating new flavors and products to
delight our loyal fans. After all, our goal has always been to deliver the
freshest, highest-quality dairy to our neighbors.
Sure, it may take us more time to create our milks, flavored milks,
cottage cheeses, yogurts, juices, and everyone’s holiday obsession,
eggnogs. But we believe in doing things the right way. And that goodness
can be tasted in every one of our dairy products—over 200 and counting.
American Popcorn
Company
Sioux City, Iowa
JOLLY TIME® Pop Corn, America’s original brand name popcorn, has
provided great-tasting, freshly popped popcorn to families for over a
century. President Garry Smith, a fourth generation family member,
shares, “Family game nights, movies, parties or sporting events, we’re
honored to be included in fun family moments and look forward to
being a part for years to come!” JOLLY TIME is a family-owned, familycentric
company that has called Iowa home since 1914.
JOLLY TIME offers a variety of traditional, microwave and ready-toeat
popcorn products in grocery stores nationwide, plus nearly 40
countries worldwide. JOLLY TIME has a wide range of flavors, from
classics like Blast O Butter®, Healthy Pop® and KettleMania® to more
contemporary spins like Mallow Magic® and The Big Cheez®. JOLLY
TIME’S newest addition is Simply Popped®, microwave popcorn that
is made with just four simple ingredients: butter, sea salt, oil and non-
GMO popcorn.
JOLLY TIME products have carried the Good Housekeeping Seal of
Approval since 1925, longer than any food product. JOLLY TIME is also
the only microwave and ready-to-eat popcorn endorsed by Weight
Watchers®. JOLLY TIME Pop Corn is gluten-free and made using GMOfree
popcorn. Learn more at www.jollytime.com
Associated
Wholesale Grocers
Kansas City, Kansas
Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) is the
nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler to
independently owned supermarkets, serving over 1,000 member
companies and over 3,100 locations throughout 28 states from eight
full-line wholesale divisions. The consolidated sales for AWG are
approximately $10 billion. In addition to its cooperative wholesale
operations, the company operates subsidiary companies. Those
provide related real estate and supermarket development services,
print and digital marketing services, and health and beauty care,
general merchandise, pharmaceutical, specialty foods, and natural
and organic products. Visit us at www.awginc.com or
@AWGCorporate on Twitter.

Atlantic Coca-Cola
Bottling Co.
Atlantic, Iowa
Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company
is a privately owned, independent
bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola
products for most of Iowa, parts of
Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and
Missouri. The company operates from nine Iowa locations including
Ames, Atlantic, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Dubuque, Mason City,
Ottumwa, Spirit Lake, Walcott, its production center in Atlantic, and
corporate offices in Des Moines and Atlantic, Iowa. The company
employs about 800 associates and runs 115 delivery routes each day
using Eostar, a full route accounting software system that manages
everything from sales orders to delivery route logistics. Atlantic Coca-
Cola Bottling Company is known for delivering outstanding service to
its retail customers throughout all of its distribution territories.
Bernatello’s Pizza
Maple Lake, Minnesota
Bernatello’s Foods is a family owned
frozen pizza company providing high
quality pizza since 1982. Bernatello’s
Pizza started as a backroom tavern pizza
in Annandale, Minn., originally named
Bud’s Pizza. Bill Ramsay bought out the
company in 1982 and changed the name to Bernatello’s Pizza. We are
proud to carry the Brew Pub Lotzza Motzza, Bellatoria, Orv’s, Roma,
Pizza Corner and Real’Za brands. Our Brew Pub Pizza brand is number
one in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. Brew Pub Pizzas are topped
with over a half pound of award-winning Wisconsin Mozzarella cheese.
Bernatello’s Foods has manufacturing facilities in Maple Lake, Minn.
and Kaukauna, Wisc. with a widespread direct store delivery program
covering nine states. At Bernatello’s, we are dedicated to the marketing
and manufacturing of innovative quality pizza and frozen products,
while providing outstanding service and value to our retailers and
customers.
Certco
Fitchburg, Wisconsin
Certco is a retailer owned, full line distributor, and retail support
center for independent supermarkets. With nearly 60,000 different
items in our warehouses, Certco has the selection you need to drive
sales at your store. We serve hundreds of real independent grocers
in the upper Midwest. The Shelby Report describes us as “one of the
most resilient and progressive grocery wholesalers in the nation.”
Groceries are our business, but we offer so much more! Our retail
accounting team can handle your payroll. Advertising can design
your weekly ad. IT can create a beautiful website for your store and
manage your e-mail marketing and social media. Our people make the
difference!
We are dedicated to providing the best available service in wholesale
grocery. Our retail counselors each have an average of over 30 years
experience in the grocery industry. It’s not just a Membership, it’s a
Partnership! Join the Certco Family today!
Cookies Food Products
Wall Lake, Iowa
From humble beginnings,
Cookies Food Products has
become home to some of
America’s most-loved sauces
and seasonings. Born and raised in the Heartland, each of our
products is made with high-quality ingredients that create flavors
unlike anything the taste buds have ever experienced.
The Cookies product line includes six delicious flavors of Bar “B”
“Q” Sauce: Original, Sweet Hickory, Korean, Western Style, Tangy
Mustard and Sweet ‘N’ Spicy. Other Cookies favorites include Wings-
N-Things Hot Sauce, Taco Sauce & Dip, and Mild or Medium Premium
Salsas. Customers also love Cookies Flavor Enhancer & All-Purpose
Seasoning, a dry spice mixture of secret ingredients that makes
everything taste better, from meat to vegetables to popcorn.
Cookies’ sauces and seasonings have taken home top honors from
some of America’s most prestigious barbecue competitions, including
the American Royal in Kansas City. It’s the sauce America loves to eat!
Visit Cookies online at www.cookiesbbq.com or find us on Facebook,
Twitter and YouTube. “Smart Cookies…Use Cookies”

Countryside BBQ
LuVerne, Iowa
Countryside Original BBQ Sauce is
a Chase family recipe dating back to
the 1950’s. Countryside was first
marketed to the public in 1987 at the
Kossuth County Fair in Algona, Iowa.
In store demo’s and word of mouth were the main vehicle of growth
for many years and delivery was in family vehicles.
indoor or outdoor locations, helping you make the most of available
floor space. Walk-ins may be supplied as coolers, freezers or a
combination for the ultimate versatility in temperature-controlled
storage. CrownTonka by Everidge walk-ins are approved under
numerous classifications, providing our customers with total peace
of mind over perishable inventories.
Crystal Farms
Minnetonka, Minnesota
The company has had steady growth every year since its beginning.
In 2014 we started marketing Countryside Classic Coleslaw Dressing
and in 2016 added Countryside Jalapeno flavored BBQ Sauce.
Countryside strives to make a high-quality product using fresh
ingredients. Countryside’s unique sweet & tangy flavor make it a
great year around seller, being used in many kitchen recipes besides
grilling and topping all meat dishes. Countryside BBQ Sauce is located
three miles south of Algona, Iowa, on Hwy 169.
Since 1926, Crystal Farms Dairy Company
has brought smiles to American kitchens
through its fun, innovative and highquality
dairy foods. As a leading dairy
brand, Crystal Farms provides more than
150 varieties of quality local dairy products to consumers across the
country. Delicious and unexpected, Crystal Farms does it all for the
love of cheese. Crystal Farms is a subsidiary of Post Holdings. For
more information, visit www.crystalfarms.com
CrownTonka by Everidge
Plymouth, Minnesota
With over 50 years of experience in
walk-in cold storage, CrownTonka
by Everidge enjoys an unrivalled
reputation for product quality,
making us the supplier of choice throughout food retailing, warehousing,
distribution, industrial and scientific environments.
From order inquiry through quotation, design, manufacture and
installation, our skilled and highly trained sales and engineering teams
provide expert advice, ensuring seamless management of your cold
storage project. CrownTonka by Everidge is a family-owned-andoperated
business with distribution points based at five convenient
locations. Backed by a national installation and service network, we
provide only the best equipment, parts and after-sales support.
Our walk-ins are engineered and built to your exact dimensions and
specifications. Flexible design and modular construction techniques
ensure that we deliver walk-ins that meet your exacting requirements
maximizing operational efficiency. We manufacture walk-ins for
Cylinder Express
Battle Creek, Iowa
Cylinder Express is an Iowa-based
business, family owned and
operated by Henry and Bev Jessen.
The grill cylinder exchange business
began in 1993 and is located in
Northwest Iowa. Currently there
are more than 800 locations all across Iowa and eastern Nebraska,
along with southern regions of South Dakota and Minnesota, where
we exchange 20-pound grill cylinders and a variety of forklift tanks.
We are able to quickly respond to our customers’ needs with an
outstanding delivery team of seven drivers, which includes Henry
and Bev’s sons Jacob and Jordan. Our production staff, office staff
and drivers all work together to provide our customers with quick
and courteous service. Cylinder Express is a member of Iowa Grocery
Industry Association and Fuel Iowa.

Fareway Stores
Boone, Iowa
Graziano Brothers
Des Moines, Iowa
Fareway Stores, Inc. is a
growing Midwest grocery
company, which currently
operates 124 store locations in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri,
Nebraska and South Dakota. Fareway holds family values in the highest
regard, demonstrating integrity, fairness and honesty in relationships
with customers, employees, vendors and suppliers. We are committed
to a foundation of personalized service and quality food distribution,
including an unmatched, full-service meat department; farm-fresh
produce; low, competitive prices; and to-your-car carryout service. Our
mission is to provide the highest quality, freshest product available,
while treating customers like family and valuing employees beyond
measure. Fareway is a family-owned business, and a top 10 employer
in Iowa, with over 12,000 employees in a six-state region.
Foundry Distilling Co.
West Des Moines, Iowa
A one-of-kind craft distillery located in
Historic Valley Junction in West Des Moines,
Iowa, Foundry Distilling Co. produces
Foundry Vodka, Okoboji Vodka, Butcher’s
Block Vodka, Foundry Whiskies, The Real
Stuff and a lineup of Brewer Distiller
Alliance Whiskies. We also offer custom-label spirits for businesses,
groups and organizations.
Foundry Distilling Co. strives to be one of the most inno vative distilleries
in the world by providing unique products, offering once-in-a-lifetime
experiences, like our Private Barrel Club, and collaborating with an
alliance of nationally recog nized breweries, known as the Brewer Distiller
Alliance. Foundry Distilling Co. also offers private party rentals and daily
tours (M-SA). Merchandise is sold on site. Our products also can be found
at Fareway Meat & Grocery, Hy-Vee and Kum & Go.
Brothers Francesco and Luigi Graziano
immigrated from Italy to the United
States with a dream. That dream came
true when they opened Graziano
Brothers Inc. in 1912. More than a
century later, family-owned Graziano
Brothers continues to produce its original fresh Italian sausage
reminiscent of the Calabrian flavors the brothers loved as children.
Today, consumers can choose from Traditional, Extra-Hot, Sweet,
Garlic and Andouille-Style Cajun sausages as well as a variety of Italian
imported and domestic foods found in traditional Italian cuisine.
Some exciting news! A proud partner with food-service and grocery
establishments throughout Iowa, Graziano Brothers is currently
expanding its offerings to include pre-cooked Italian sausage, meatballs,
sauces, condiments and spices for future distribution throughout the
Midwest. To learn more visit www.grazianobrothers.com.
Hiland Dairy
Springfield, Missouri
Locally made, naturally delicious
Hiland Dairy, based in Springfield,
Missouri, is a leading farmer-owned dairy foods company.
Consumers love our products including Hiland Dairy ice cream, milk,
butter, cheese, and eggnog. Hiland Dairy has expanded beyond dairy
and has a wide variety of other beverages, such as Red Diamond
Tea, iced coffees, lemonade, and fresh juices. As a farmer-owned
company, Hiland employs more than 2,500 people across Arkansas,
Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. Hiland’s farmer-owners
are just miles from the Hiland processing plants where our fresh
milk goes from the farm to the shelves within 48 hours. This speedy
process is environment-friendly and gives the signature fresh taste
to all Hiland products! Hiland strongly believes in community and is
committed to our environment. Using eco-friendly processes, Hiland
continues to provide wholesome dairy to a healthy world. Learn
more at www.HilandDairy.com.

Hormel
Austin, Minnesota
Iowa Lottery
Clive, Iowa
Hormel Foods Corporation, based in
Austin, Minnesota, is a multinational
manufacturer and marketer of
consumer-branded food and meat products, many of which are
among the best known and trusted in the food industry.
The company leverages its extensive expertise, innovation and high
competencies in pork and turkey processing and marketing to bring
branded, value-added products to the global marketplace. At five
manufacturing locations throughout Iowa, the company produces
Hormel® Cure 81® hams, Hormel® Natural Choice® products,
Hormel® pepperoni, Hormel® Compleats® and Hormel® canned
meat products.
The company enjoys a strong reputation among consumers, retail
grocers, food service and industrial customers for products highly
regarded for quality, taste, nutrition, convenience and value. For
more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com.
Hy-Vee
West Des Moines, Iowa
Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more
than 275 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of
$10 billion annually. The supermarket chain is synonymous with
quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise and
superior customer service.
Hy-Vee ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been
named one of America’s Top 5 favorite grocery stores. The company’s
more than 85,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle”
to customers every day.
For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.
At the Iowa Lottery, we offer
sincere thanks to our 2,400 retailers for helping us safely deliver a
local entertainment option all across the state during this ongoing
public health emergency. Through it all, your support has been
key in allowing the lottery to continue delivering on its promise of
responsibly generating revenues for important state causes.
In fact, for 35 years now in Iowa, retailers’ work in selling lottery
tickets has not only helped state initiatives, but has created prize
winners statewide while driving local economies. All told, since the
Iowa Lottery’s start in 1985, its players have won more than $4.6
billion in prizes while more than $2 billion in proceeds has been
raised for state programs. We’re proud of all we’ve accomplished
together, and pledge to continue working with you to navigate our
changed environment in the best interests of each other and the
Iowans we serve.
Keurig Dr Pepper
Burlington, Massachusetts and Plano, Texas
Keurig Dr Pepper (NYSE:KDP) is
a leading coffee and beverage
company in North America, with
annual revenue in excess of
$11 billion. Formed in 2018 with the merger of Keurig Green Mountain
and Dr Pepper Snapple Group, we have leadership positions in soft
drinks, specialty coffee and tea, water, juice and juice drinks and
mixers, and we market the #1 single serve coffee brewing system in
the U.S. We have an unrivaled distribution system that enables our
portfolio of more than 125 owned, licensed and partner brands to be
available nearly everywhere people shop and consume beverages.
With a wide range of hot and cold beverages that meet virtually any
consumer need, KDP key brands include Keurig®, Dr Pepper®, Green
Mountain Coffee Roasters®, Canada Dry®, Snapple®, Bai®, Mott’s®
and The Original Donut Shop®. We have more than 25,000 employees
and more than 120 offices, manufacturing plants, warehouses and
distribution centers across North America.

Klondike Cheese Co.
Monroe, Wisconsin
Klondike Cheese Company has
been producing award-winning
cheese at the same location since
the late 1800s. Family-owned
and operated in Monroe, Wis.
by the Buholzer family for four
generations, the secret to Klondike’s quality is a combination of
state-of-the-art equipment, its own special recipes and time-honored
traditions of cheese making. Today Klondike Cheese Company is
proud to be home to six Wisconsin Master Cheesemakers. Klondike
markets its Odyssey® feta cheese, Greek yogurt, sour cream and
Greek yogurt dips for foodservice and retail, as well as brick, muenster,
Havarti and Gouda under the Buholzer Brothers® label for retail and
foodservice. To find out more information and try some great recipes
please visit www.odysseybrands.com orwww.buholzerbrothers.com
Mueller Yurgae Associates
Grimes, Iowa
Sazerac
Metairie, Louisiana
In 1869, Thomas H. Handy
purchased the Sazerac
Coffeehouse and began to
acquire and market brands of liquor. He bought out the rights to
Peychaud’s Bitters in 1873. In the 1890s his company began to bottle
and market the Sazerac cocktail, now made with rye whiskey instead
of brandy. In addition, the company operated the Sazerac Bar on
Royal Street. Later, Handy’s former secretary, C. J. O’Reilly, chartered
the Sazerac Company. Ever since (except for a stint as a delicatessen
and grocery vendor during Prohibition), the Sazerac Company has
distilled an ever-increasing line of fine spirits.
Today, we are still an independent, American, family-owned company
and proud owners of many of America’s most venerable distilling
companies—Buffalo Trace Distillery, A. Smith Bowman, Glenmore
Distillery, Barton, Fleischmann, Medley and Mr. Boston.
SHAZAM
Johnston, Iowa
Mueller Yurgae
Associates is a family
owned business with
offices throughout the
Midwest. Founded in 1975 by Fred Mueller and Phil Yurgae, MYA
represents a wide range of brands and products in the grocery and
c-store world. By focusing on creating options for their customers and
clients MYA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization.
SHAZAM pioneered the PIN-debit pointof-sale
transaction, still used worldwide
today. We’re the only nationwide
independent, member-owned debit
network, processor and core provider supporting community banks
and credit unions. Since we don’t answer to shareholders, we can
reinvest profits in technologies our clients need as they serve the
next generation of consumers.
MYA offers traditional brokerage services as well as distributing and
logistics services through subsidiary company Diversified Distributing.
Mueller Yurgae employs 285 full time associates strategically located
to serve the retail needs of their customers and clients.
The average tenure of an MYA sales rep is approximately 12 years.
MYA prides itself on supporting the industries they serve. MYA was
named IGIA Supplier of the Year in 2009 and Volunteer Organization of
the Year in 2015.
SHAZAM ensures our clients have the products and services they
demand and expect in a cost-effective way. Founded in 1976 and
headquartered in Iowa, we’re a leader in payments and financial
technology, with a simple mission: Strengthening community
financial institutions. Visit us today at shazam.net.

Shullsburg
Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Wells Enterprises
Le Mars, Iowa
Shullsburg Creamery is
Old Fashion Goodness Since 1934
an 85 year old Wisconsin
Cheese company serving retailers & food service for 85 years. Our
factory is supplied milk by our co-operative family farms. We offer
a tremendous portfolio of Cheese including retail-packaged chunk,
bars, shreds, slices & cubes as well as bulk 40# blocks, cubes,
curds, loaves, mini horns, spreads and cold packs. We offer all the
traditional cheeses as well as artisanal specialty cheeses. Over 1,400
different items, types and sizes to choose from.
We offer the best quality cheese available—made in small batch sizes,
in open vats, delivering a clean, fresh and flavorful eating experience
for customers. We deliver a true point of difference from others in
both variety and quality. We cure our cheese to optimize flavor and
texture. We grade and ensure the quality is consistent each and every
time. Our Shullsburg team from our office team, street sales team and
our drivers deliver customer service second to none.
Headquartered in Le Mars, Iowa,
Wells Enterprises Inc. is the largest
privately held, family-owned ice
cream manufacturer in the United
States. Founded in 1913 by Fred H.
Wells, the company is still proudly
owned by the Wells family today.
What started with a single horse-drawn delivery wagon, Wells now
produces more than 200 million gallons of ice cream per year and
distributes products in all 50 states. More than 4,000 ice cream
aficionados across the country make up the Wells’ team, working
together to manufacture signature brand Blue Bunny®, Bomb Pop®,
Halo Top®, Blue Ribbon Classics® and most recently became the
licensed manufacturer for The Cheesecake Factory at Home line of ice
cream. Learn more at wellsenterprisesinc.com or www.facebook.com/
bluebunnyicecream.
Ulrich Meat Market
Pella, Iowa
Zevia
Los Angeles, California
Nestled among the bakeries of the
quaint town of Pella, Iowa, Historic
Ulrich Meat Market offers a variety
of smoked meats for the meat
lovers in your world. Our recipes
are faithful to time-honored
traditions that make exceptional
smoked meats possible.
Many of our meats start with an all-beef base, a prime distinction
among smoked meats. This proud tradition began in 1868 with
Genuine Pella Beef Bologna. Each handmade ring is hickory smoked
to perfection inside our Pella facility. We use the original recipe and
we never take shortcuts. Our meticulous processes ensure every
Ulrich Beef Summer Sausage is as delicious as the one that brought
home numerous coveted Iowa State Fair ribbons. And, our delicious
Iowa Meat Processors Association Award-Winning Ulrich Beef Sticks
are bursting with a variety of unique flavors, mild to sweet and even
with heat. There is favorite for everyone!
Zevia is a producer of zerocalorie
naturally sweetened
beverages in various flavors.
Refreshing and delicious Zevia beverages are sweetened with stevia
and made with real ingredients. Zevia products have zero sugar, zero
calories and nothing artificial. Products include soda, ready-to-drink
tea, energy drinks and mixers. Naturally sweetened with plant-based
ingredients and free of caramel coloring, Zevia is vegan, kosher,
gluten-free and NON-GMO Project Verified.
Zevia products support the health of individuals who prefer an
alternative to soft drinks or want to avoid both added sugars and
artificial sweeteners.

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
A Successful Year Means
It’s never time to slow down
By Greg Ferrara, NGA President and CEO
By all indications, 2019 was a banner
year for independent supermarkets,
inadvertently preparing retailers for a
2020 that has unfolded in a way no one
anticipated a year ago.
Low unemployment last year fueled
consumer spending, including grocery
shopping. As beneficiaries of that success,
independent grocers increased their
same-store sales by 2.5% in 2019, with
56% improving same-store sales growth.
As such, independents entered this
unprecedented period on strong footing,
reaping the benefits of hard work and
strategic management during 2019, so
says the latest edition of the Independent
Grocers Financial Survey, a joint study
between the National Grocers Association
(NGA) and FMS Solutions, and the source
of these encouraging statistics.
The current pandemic has illustrated
the agility and resiliency of independent
grocers. As the supermarket industry
continues to navigate these changes,
independent grocers are in a unique
position to find innovative and creative
ways to better serve their customers.
Growth experienced by independents
as they emerged from 2019 helped
drive higher net profits, which many
operators reinvested at higher levels
last year, shoring up their infrastructure,
particularly in e-commerce, a space in
which independents have been lagging but
are now finding indispensable in COVIDera
retailing.
E-commerce was offered by 64% of
independents in 2019, up from 32% in
2018. Many offer both delivery and pickup
(30%) or pickup only (26%). Combined
investments in store upgrades, marketing,
advertising and e-commerce allowed
independent supermarkets to welcome
the surge of shoppers brought on by the
pandemic.
Additionally, strategic inventory
management brought higher turns
and reduced shrink. Despite increased
employee turnover, independents were
able to keep personnel costs in check amid
a tight labor market. Lower overhead also
helped reduce total expenses.
Continue the momentum. Now
is not the time to let up or slow down.
Grocers experienced soaring sales as part
of the essential infrastructure. But their
commitment to serving their communities
will be even more important as the economy
struggles its way through the pandemic and
unemployment numbers remain high.
Inevitable belt-tightening is sure to impact
all retail sectors, even grocers, especially
those that fail to demonstrate their value
to cost-conscious consumers.
Grocers must continue to enhance
their e-commerce programs (those still
without one, what are you waiting for?),
refine their in-store experience to better
meet changing needs and become their
community’s solution for all things food.
They must continue to work closely with
suppliers to develop innovative solutions
for any supply chain challenges that may
be lurking around the corner. And they
must continue to exceed expectations for
a safe and sanitary environment for both
shoppers and associates.
On the whole, independents have invested
wisely, in the right things at the right time.
Continuing to invest in your people and their
ability to deliver in a time of crisis will ensure
loyalty and success for years to come, when
the pandemic at last becomes a memory. IG
Learn more about the Grocers
Financial Survey.
Visit: www.nationalgrocers.org/
resource-center
45

iowagrocer
2020 IGIA Leadership Class
IGIA honors 2020 graduates
Although COVID-19 has interrupted our lives in so many ways, it couldn’t stop our 2020 IGIA
Leadership Institute Class from graduating. The 2020 class was scheduled to complete its
coursework at the end of April but the final two sessions were postponed due to the pandemic. This
year’s class completed their final session on Thursday, October 8, 2020.
In all, 25 current and future grocery industry leaders made an
investment in their futures by attending the IGIA Leadership
Institute, bolstering their professional network and leadership
skills in ways that will repay them for years to come.
Leadership graduates will be recognized in IGIA’s Celebration in
a Box, headed to members in time for the holidays. (The box is a
way to connect as an industry when we cannot gather in person.)
To graduate, participants completed a series of four informationpacked
workshops led by recognized leadership experts.
Suzanne Allen
Associate Business Manager
Acosta Sales & Marketing,
Urbandale, Iowa
Resides in: Bondurant, Iowa
Years in the industry: 14
Jason Allison
Warehouse Operations
Manager
Fareway Warehouse,
Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Boone, Iowa
Years in the industry: 27
As associate business manager, Allen supports client
brands through promotions and new product marketing
to gain consumer awareness and grow retail sales.
• Customer service award, Sysco Iowa, 2007
• Excellence in customer support award,
National Chain Restaurants, 2015
• Sysco Iowa Cares, committee member, 2016-2017
“I’ve been eager to gain further knowledge and
leadership skills in the grocery industry and to expand
professional relationships and networks within the
industry through the IGIA Leadership program.”
Thank You
As Warehouse Operations Manager, Allison oversees the
receiving and warehousing of all inbound loads. His primary
responsibilities include monitoring inventory and product
flow to optimize the use of warehouse space and the ASRS
(Automated Storage and Retrieval System). He also serves
as a liaison to Fareway stores and wholesale offices.
“I began my career at Fareway working part time in
the warehouse on the night shift. I spent 20 years on
the produce and refrigerated shipping crew, acting as
foreman for 10 of these years. I then moved to the dry
goods and frozen receiving department as a foreman
before becoming warehouse operations manager.
And, I am excited to have the opportunity to
learn new ways to improve my leadership skills
by attending the IGIA Leadership Institute.”
IGIA Leadership Institute Sponsor, SHAZAM! The total cost for all
four sessions of the program is far less than a single comparable leadership seminar on
the market today. The IGIA provided this invaluable experience for only $399 per person
thanks to Leadership Institute sponsor, SHAZAM.
46

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Chad Anderson
JD Campbell
Produce Specialist
Fareway Headquarters,
Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Atlantic, Iowa
Years in the industry: 19
Category Manager
Hy-Vee Corporate Office,
West Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: Norwalk, Iowa
Years in the industry: 11
His current role as produce specialist includes ensuring the
highest quality products; maintaining product knowledgeable;
analyzing market trends; developing sales, price and
profitability strategies; recommending improvements; and
identifying opportunities to increase revenue, as well as
conduct one-on-one training within the company’s stores.
“I am always looking to sharpen my leadership
skills and gain new competencies. The Leadership
Institute provides practical and relevant advice from
speakers and participants that will help me increase
productivity and make better business decisions.”
JD is the category manager for the sports
nutrition, specialty beverage, private label
specialty, and authentic Italian categories.
“I enrolled in the leadership institute to gain additional
industry knowledge and to align with other retail
leaders. I will use this training as a way to challenge
myself to be a better employee, boss and leader.”
Sarah Cooksley
Joe Bertino
Director of Sales, Convenience
Mueller Yurgae Associates,
Grimes, Iowa
Resides in: Altoona, Iowa
Years in the industry: 17
Bertino leads a 15-person sales team focused
on convenience store retail and headquarter
business. He works closely with all MYA customers
to increase distribution and sales for all clients.
• Hy-Vee University, graduate, 2012
“I am enjoying the opportunity to learn and grow and
I’m always eager to participate in events that further my
knowledge of the industry. The networking aspect of
the leadership institute is an added bonus as well.”
Bakery Sales Specialist
Fareway Headquarters,
Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Marion, Iowa
Years in the industry: 8+
As a bakery sales specialist, Cooksley spends time training
and developing bakery employees in Fareway’s 16 bakeries.
She and her team ensure that bakery crews are practicing
safe food handling procedures, oversee day-to-day inventory
and create bulletins filled with new product and sales ideas.
She loves working hands-on with the bakery crews, assisting
all in learning ways to work more efficiently and accurately.
• Graduated cosmetology school,
La’James, Cedar Falls, Iowa, 2001
• Boys and Girls Club, volunteer
• Women’s Business Center of Eastern Iowa, member
• Outstanding Entrepreneur Award, 2007
• Cheveux Belle/Inner Glow Tanning Recognition Award, 2007
“I was offered the opportunity to participate in the
leadership institute by my supervisor. With this
nomination, I’m honored to be a part of an outstanding
class of leaders, and I’m looking forward to growing in my
leadership role and making connections with others.”
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iowagrocer
Amy Costello
Jenny Flint
Legal Counsel
Casey’s General Stores
Ankeny Store Support Center
Resides in: Ankeny, Iowa
Years in the industry: 4
Payroll Manager
Kum & Go L.C.
Krause Gateway Center,
Des Moines IA
Resides in: Johnston, Iowa
Years in the industry: 2
As an in-house attorney for Casey’s, Costello provides legal
support to various departments at the Store Support Center in
Ankeny and to team members working in the field and in store.
• Juris Doctorate, Drake University Law School, 2013
• Member, Ankeny Leadership Institute, Class of 2020
• Co-Chair, Casey’s iWill Philanthropy Committee
Flint leads the payroll team for Krause Group
organizations including Kum & Go.
“I am fortunate to be in a leadership role for a great organization
whose mission is to make days better. I was nominated by my
company leaders to attend the IGIA Leadership Institute and I am
honored to be chosen to represent our organization in this way.”
“The IGIA Leadership institute was recommended to me by
my supervisors at Casey’s. I felt this experience would be
an excellent opportunity for me to form connections in the
industry and to continue to grow my leadership skills.”
Tara Dodge
Kirsty Flores
Assistant Store Manager
North Scott Foods,
Eldridge, Iowa
Resides in: Eldridge, Iowa
Years in the industry: 12
Director, Supplier Relations
Hy-Vee Inc.
West Des Moines
Corporate Office
Resides in: Waukee, Iowa
Years in the industry: 14
Flores responsibilities include hiring and scheduling employees as
well as administering the company’s employee reward program. She
also trains new supervisors, assist with day-to-day tasks, and most
recently has taken on the addition responsibilities of dairy manager.
Dodge is responsible for 75-plus supplier partnerships
providing marketing support programming utilizing a
wide range of advertising and marketing assets.
• FMI Food Retail Leadership Certification
• Hy-Vee 2019 Hall of Fame award,
Office Director of the Year
• Dale Carnegie Leadership Excellence award
• Associate’s degree, business sales & marketing,
Southeast Community College, Lincoln, Nebraska
• Executive Women’s Group, member
“As our industry continues to change, I
feel it’s my responsibility to continue to
learn and grow with the industry.”
“The leadership program is a great opportunity to improve my
leadership skills and gain new ideas that can be implemented
and shared with all of our employees. It also provides
networking opportunities with other industry leaders.”
Session 1
Session 1: Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020
An overview of the payments landscape presented by
Dan Kramer of SHAZAM was followed by Kent Stock,
who shared his inspiring story coaching a high school
baseball team to victory against all odds. A feat that
was later the subject of a Hollywood motion picture,
“The Final Season.” Kent’s story is about how you live
your life and make an impact on others. After a short
break, leadership guru Celina Peerman coached the
group in the ways of Emotional Intelligence, imparting
key competencies that leaders need to lead for results.
48

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Kialy Giesking
Channel Director,
Convenience Retail
Atlantic Coca-Cola
Bottling Company
Des Moines Corporate Branch
Resides in: Van Meter, Iowa
Years in the industry: 7
Alex Hefner
Vice President,
Northern Division
Cruise Marketing,
Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: Granger, Iowa
Years in the industry: 11
Giesking directs communication from multiple national call
points, and acts as the lead call for two convenience store
chains. She also designs comparative market analysis and
promotional calendars for independent c-stores as well as
establishes budget volume and revenue goals for the channel.
Hefner is the account manager for multiple vendors at PDI
Perishable Distributor of Iowa, a subsidiary of Hy-Vee Inc. She
assists in executing yearly planners designed to grow the business
and presents new products to the key buyers. She also arms
their sales team with the tools needed to sell at store level.
“I wanted to participate in the leadership institute to expand my
knowledge and network within the grocery/convenience industry.”
Emily Hecker
Senior Communications
Specialist
Kum & Go L.C.
Krause Gateway Center,
Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: West Des
Moines, Iowa
Years in the industry: 1
Hecker is responsible for the intake, development and execution of
internal communications and programs designed to drive engagement,
support the brand, and clearly communicate the vision of the company.
• Bachelor’s degree, exercise science, Iowa State University
“I am attending the leadership institute to diversify my
approach to leading. I know all employees thrive under
different types of leadership. I want to be able to adapt to
my audience to get the most out of each situation.”
Dick Kelch
Director, Northern Division
Cruise Marketing Inc.,
Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: Ankeny, Iowa
Years in the industry: 47
• Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communications,
magazine journalism, Drake University
• Bachelor of Arts, writing, Drake University
• Pursuing a master’s degree in strategic
communications, University of Iowa
“I am a firm believer that learning shouldn’t end when we leave
school. As students, we are often taught how to manage, not how to
lead. The opportunity to learn and grow professionally while meeting
some of the best and brightest in our industry is incredibly exciting.”
Session 2
Kelch interviews and develops relationships with manufacturers and
their clients, presenting potential new products to assigned customers.
After the products are approved, Kelch creates new item forms, retail
flyers for sales team, as well as submits promotions, ad proposals
and price changes. He also establishes a sales budget and forecast
to ensure account sales success and to help resolve any conflicts.
• Iowa Grocery Industry Association, member
• Daymon Worldwide Broker of the Year award
“I had heard several recommendations from prior attendees. They
said the leadership institute is a great way to meet others in within
Session 2: Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020
IGIA President Michelle Hurd provided an overview of the IGIA’s governmentrelations
efforts and explained how the Association advocates for the
grocery industry. Afterward, the class participated in a panel discussion
on issues of concern to the grocery and convenience industries and later
made its way to the Capitol for a tour and to meet with elected officials.
various grocery-related
industries while learning
more about the IGIA. I also
saw it as a good opportunity
to become more involved
in the Association and
use my experiences to
assist in development
of new associates.”
49

iowagrocer
Scot Kinne
Vice President Banking
Fareway corporate
headquarters, Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Boone, Iowa
Years in industry: 1
Spencer Moser
Digital Integration Manager
Atlantic Coca-Cola
Bottling Company
Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: West Des
Moines, Iowa
Years in the industry: 3
Kinne’s responsibilities include developing banking
relationships and activities at the corporate and retail
levels. He also oversees acceptance of various customer
payment types and the related reporting functions. Kinne
is a member of Fareway’s Real estate committee.
• Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Iowa
• Boone Economic Development and Boone
County I Club, board member
“I am excited for this opportunity to learn from and
network with others in the grocery industry.”
Since completing the 2020 IGIA Leadership Institute,
Spencer Moser has been promoted from commercial
digital specialist to the digital integration manager
for Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company.
• Google Search Ads, Google Analytics, Waze Ads, and
Facebook/Instagram Marketing Mastery Certificates
“The leadership institute will help me to advance my
leadership abilities in the digital realm. I aspire to
develop a hardworking, close-knit team that possesses
a positive vision for the organization, as well as integrity
and empathy for the people we work with.”
Steven Liston
Corporate Support Manager
Fareway Headquarters,
Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Granger, Iowa
Years in the industry: 7
Liston manages a small team of IT professionals
that supports and maintains Fareway’s
Corporate infrastructure and endpoints.
• VMware Users Group (VMUG), member since 2012
“I am participating in the leadership institute because I would
like to become the best leader I possibly can for my team.”
Jami Parrish
Manager, Talent Management
Casey’s General Stores
Casey’s Store Support
Center, Ankeny, IA
Resides in: Ankeny, IA
Years in the industry: 13
Leading the Talent Management team at Casey’s, Parrish
focuses on attracting and retaining top talent for the
organization. She and her team support hiring efforts and
coach best practices at all Casey’s store locations. In addition,
they recruit talent to fill all roles throughout the Store
Support Center in Ankeny and in remote departments such
as fuel drivers, service technicians and inventory crew.
50
“This is an excellent opportunity
to enhance my leadership skills
while expanding my knowledge and
networking within the industry.
I embrace opportunities to grow
professionally and meet peers along
the way.” —Jami Parrish
• PHR, Professional in Human Resources
• SHRM-CP, Society of Human Resource
Management Certified Professional
• Bachelor of Science, Human Sciences
College, Iowa State University
“This is an excellent opportunity to enhance my leadership
skills while expanding my knowledge and networking
within the industry. I embrace opportunities to grow
professionally and meet peers along the way.”

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
Jaclyn Scatena
Legal Counsel
Kum & Go L.C.
Krause Gateway
Center, Des Moines
Resides in: West Des
Moines, Iowa
Years in the industry: 4
Josh Vogeler
Controller
Kum & Go L.C.
Krause Gateway Center,
Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: Urbandale, Iowa
Years in the industry: 2
Scatena assists in the negotiation, drafting and review
of various contracts. She provides legal support to
the store development department in the purchase,
lease and sale of real estate. She also manages Kum
& Go’s overall compliance development and acts
as the company’s anti-money laundering officer,
providing legal guidance and advice when needed.
• Bachelor of Arts, University of Iowa
• Juris Doctorate, John Marshall Law School
(Now The UIC John Marshall Law School)
“I was honored to be nominated internally by
the Kum & Go senior leadership team.
I thought this would be a great opportunity for me to grow
as a leader and develop my knowledge of various other
members of the Iowa Grocery Industry Association.”
Vogeler manages the day-to-day operation of the
accounting and financial reporting functions, including
the preparation of financial statements. He ensures
compliance with GAAP, and that proper internal controls
are implemented to protect company assets. With the
goal of improving financial performance, he also identifies
and implements productivity and cost-saving initiatives.
• Bachelor’s degrees, economics and
finance, University of Northern Iowa
• MRA Leadership Foundations Development
Series program, graduate
• Dale Carnegie Leadership/Communication program, graduate
“The leadership institute provides opportunities to
network, to learn industry best practices, to enhance
leadership skills and to gain exposure to different
ideas and techniques in the retail space.”
Andrew Spiker
Procurement Coordinator
Hy-Vee Inc.
Hy-Vee Corporate Office,
West Des Moines, Iowa
Resides in: Ankeny, Iowa
Years in the industry: 6
Krystal Walford
Accounts Receivable/E-
Commerce Manager
Mueller Yurgae Associates/
Diversified Distributing
Mueller Yurgae Associates,
Grimes, Iowa
Resides in: Johnston, Iowa
Years in the industry: 10
Spiker troubleshoots any issues the department has
with the applications and programs the company
uses, as well as coordinates with the IT department
on any enhancements or projects for the purchasing
department. He also works with several outside software
companies that supply technology used in purchasing.
• Bachelor of Science, animal ecology, Iowa State University
“The leadership institute has provided a unique opportunity
to continue to learn and grow my knowledge of the
grocery industry. The experience from the institute will
help me successfully continue my career at Hy-Vee.”
Walford’s primary role is managing the accounts
receivable, processing and invoicing all purchase orders
for Diversified Distributing. She also has the opportunity
to manage, grow and develop the E-Commerce division
of MYA/Diversified Distributing, Pantryful.com.
“I started at MYA/Diversified Distributing 10 years ago,
which has provided me with an incredible opportunity
to learn about the industry from our amazing board
of directors, co-workers and customers. I signed up to
participate in the IGIA Leadership Institute to network
with other leaders, to develop my leadership skills and
to implement a more effective leadership style.”
51

iowagrocer
Erin Wisecup
Category Buyer
Fareway Headquarters
Resides in: Boone, Iowa
Years in the industry: 14
Aimee Yurgae
Director of Grimes
Administration
Mueller Yurgae Associates,
Grimes, Iowa
Resides in: Clive, Iowa
Years in the industry: 24
As category buyer, Wisecup reviews category data,
identifies consumer trends, develops promotional
strategies, and sources products across the dry,
frozen, bakery, and specialty categories.
• Accounting Diploma, DMACC
• Certified Food Safety Manager, National
Registry of Food Safety Professionals
“The leadership institute is helping me to continue
developing and expanding my skills and knowledge as a
leader. It also continues to expand my current network
and knowledge of the Iowa grocery business.”
Maggie Worrall
HR/Payroll Coordinator
Fareway Stores Inc.
Fareway Corporate
Office, Boone, Iowa
Resides in: Ames, Iowa
Years in the industry: 19
Worrall processes the weekly and salaried payroll for
Fareway. She currently builds all new hires in the company’s
HRIS system and maintains all employee record changes.
She also processes all unemployment claims for Fareway.
• Bachelor’s degree, Iowa State University
“My role has developed over the last year as we
implement an HRIS system and I now have two
individuals reporting to me. I want to learn to be a good
leader and what best ways I can support them.”
Yurgae leads MYA’s account coordinator team, managing
daily tasks and training new hires while working with MYA
business managers to service her accounts. She strives to
build a positive office environment that cultivates positive
attitudes and ensures each team member has the tools
needed to complete the job in an efficient and effective
manner. Yurgae also manages accounts receivable for MYA.
“I started in the broker business at 23 years old. I have worked
hard, paid attention, and learned everything I could from my
bosses, co-workers, customers and manufacturers. I have
been fortunate to have some of the best role models in the
industry and I enjoy sharing what I have learned with others.
The leadership institute will help in my role as office manager
to provide additional positive direction to my team of 10
individuals. I’m also excited to cultivate some new relationships
within the industry and gain additional knowledge on how
to handle difficult situations and different personalities.”
Sessions 3 & 4
Session 3: Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020
During this session, Patrick Dix, former
news anchor and public relations expert
talked about best practices in cultivating
relationships with the media as well as what
makes a truly great social media post and
what causes a post to go viral. He also shared
critical skills to bring a company through a
media crisis to a positive conclusion.
Session 4: Thursday, October 8, 2020
Presented by Jennifer Webster and Jennifer
Browne of OneBody3, the presentation,
“Emerging Purpose” showed participants
how to leverage human potential through
intention and purpose. Individuals were given
the opportunity to undertake a process of self
discovery. They then used what they discovered
about themselves, their values, mindsets and
behaviors, and transfer them to an intentional
and purposeful plan of action.
52

IOWA PRODUCTS ISSUE 2020
IGIA Build with Bags Grant Program Is Helping to
Beautify Communities
TM
The recipients of this year’s Build with Bags Grants are putting their grant awards to great use in their
communities, beautifying Iowa parks, schools and playgrounds. Check out two of the recent projects
that the Build with Bags program has helped to fund in 2020.
Build with Bags grants have
provided more than $350,000
After 11 years, the Build with Bags grant
program has donated $350,067.20 to more
than 200 schools and parks across the state
and kept hundreds of thousands of plastic
bags out of landfills.
Park benches, picnic tables and planters
are a few of the items made from recycled
plastics bags that make their way to Iowa
parks and playgrounds each spring courtesy
of the Build with Bags program.
Check out two of the projects funded by
Build with Bags Grants in 2020
combined for an overall point total. This
year, the top eight applicants with the most
points received grants totaling $14,505.20.
Grocers play an instrumental role in securing
the Build with Bags Grants within their
communities. Grant applicants must obtain
an endorsement letter from a local grocer
who is supportive of the community’s project
and recycling plans. IG
Volunteers install new benches in Afton, Iowa.
Each item represents thousands of plastics
bags that won’t be making a trip to the
landfill. For example, it takes 10,600 plastic
grocery bags to make one park bench and
more than 20,000 to make a picnic table.
The idea is to use the money from the Build
with Bags grants to increase plastic bag
recycling efforts throughout Iowa.
The program takes an innovative approach
to encourage individuals to recycle their
plastic bags so those bags can be turned
into products that beautify our communities.
It gives Iowans a firsthand look at what
happens to their plastic bags when they are
recycled and demonstrates our members’
commitment to the environment.
New benches in Afton, Iowa, allow visitors to sit and enjoy nature.
In 2020, a committee of representatives
in support of the Build with Bags program
selected eight winners from a total of 29
applications submitted by local community
groups. Committee members individually
scored applications. The scores were then
To learn more about applying for a
Build with Gags Grant.
Visit: www.iowagrocers.com/buildwith-bags-grant-application.cfm
Briar Cliff University receives new hexagon tables for its campus.
53

2020 Ribbon
Sponsors
PLATINUM RIBBON
SPONSORS
Coca-Cola
E & J Gallo Winery
Fareway Stores
Hy-Vee
PepsiCo
SHAZAM
BLUE RIBBON
SPONSORS
AE Dairy
Associated Wholesale Grocers
Bernatello’s Pizza
Cylinder Express
Federated Insurance
Hiland Dairy
RED RIBBON
SPONSORS
ACOSTA Sales & Marketing
Advantage Solutions
Anheuser Busch
Bimbo Bakeries USA
Casey’s General Stores
Certco
General Mills
Iowa Lottery
Kellogg Company
Kemps
Keurig Dr Pepper
KraftHeinz
Kum & Go
Kwik Star
MillerCoors
Mondelez
Mueller Yurgae Associates
Old Dutch Foods
Principal Financial Group
Sazerac
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits
Wells Enterprises
White Claw Hard Seltzer
BAKERY
Bimbo Bakeries USA
.........................(515) 963-8746
Pan-O-Gold Baking Co.
.........................(515) 289-4502
BEER
Anheuser-Busch
.........................(314) 577-2000
Boulevard Brewing
.........................(816) 474-7095
FIFCO USA......(585) 546-1030
Mike’s Hard Lemonade
.........................(515) 444-3851
MillerCoors.....(513) 571-4536
Pabst Brewing
.........................(515) 344-9138
Summit Brewing
.........................(651) 265-7800
The Boston Beer Company
.........................(515) 322-7898
BEVERAGE
Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling
.........................(515) 987-1931
Body Armor....(718) 357-7402
Cameron’s Coffee
..........................952) 374-5026
Coca-Cola........(515) 657-2882
Crystal Clear Water
.........................(515) 265-2324
Fairlife, LLC .... (312) 624-9444
Iowa Beverage Systems
.........................(515) 266-2274
Keurig Dr Pepper
.........................(515) 447-9385
Mahaska Bottling Co.
.........................(641) 573-3481
Midwest Best Water
.........................(651) 291-7244
Monster Energy Company
.........................(612) 251-0426
Pepsi Beverages
.........................(515) 270-1332
Premium Waters
.........................(612) 379-4141
Red Bull...........(417) 766-2834
Verena Street Coffee
.........................(563) 556-3931
Voss Distributing
.........................(515) 263-1777
Zevia................(855) 469-3842
BROKER
Acosta Sales & Marketing
.........................(515) 278-2040
Advantage Solutions
.........................(515) 278-1223
CROSSMARK Sales & Marketing
.........................(515) 285-1101
Cruise Marketing
.........................(515) 564-0990
Daymon...........(515) 267-7913
Dreyer Marketing
.........................(515) 986-5957
Hockenberg Newburgh
.........................(515) 222-0100
IGIA Supplier Member Directory
Mueller Yurgae Associates
.........................(515) 986-0491
R.G. Sales and Marketing
.........................(515) 556-8018
Schraad & Associates
.........................(515) 400-3535
CANDY
Palmer Candy
.........................(712) 258-5543
Siegert Enterprises dba Betty
Jane Candies
........................ (563) 582-4668
The Hershey Company
.........................(616) 254-9380
DAIRY/EGGS
AE Dairy...........(515) 265-2521
Crystal Farms
.........................(515) 669-6062
DFA Dairy Brands
.........................(515) 822-4146
Hiland Dairy....(402) 344-4321
Kemps Dairy....(608) 832-1313
Prairie Farms
.........................(563) 391-3341
Rose Acre Farms
.........................(812) 497-2557
Sparboe Companies
.........................(952) 475-0100
Versova........... (515) 532-2240
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Principal Financial Group
.........................(515) 246-4031
Wells Fargo Commercial
Banking...........(515) 237-5100
West Bank.......(515) 222-2300
FOOD MANUFACTURING
Campbell’s Soup Company
.........................(612) 206-4717
Cameron’s Coffee
.........................(952) 374-5026
Cookies Food Products
........................ (712) 664-2683
Countryside BBQ Sauce
.........................(515) 295-3583
Famous Dave’s Products
........................ (952) 746-8800
Faribault Foods
.........................(507) 331-1400
General Mills..... (952) 913-7395
Jimmy’s Dressings & Dips
........................ (507) 533-7786
Kellogg Company
........................ (641) 259-2136
King Arthur Flour
........................ (901) 351-4751
Klondike Cheese
.........................(608) 325-3021
Midwest Foods, LLC dba/Gino’s
Food Products
.........................(515) 240-4698
Mondelez........(515) 556-4194
Nestle..............(708) 307-5460
Post Consumer Brands
.........................(515) 229-8638
Reser’s Fine Foods
.........................(816) 834-9472
Shullsburg Creamery
.........................(608) 965-4485
Sioux Honey Association
.........................(712) 233-9175
Tasty Toppings
.........................(800) 228-4148
The Kraft Heinz Company
.........................(608) 628-1061
Troverco/Triple Sticks
.........................(563) 349-2959
Vanscoy Industries
.........................(319) 560-7459
X-Tra Touch Products
.........................(712) 246-4376
FROZEN
Arctic Glacier U.S.A.
.........................(316) 529-2173
Messerschmitt Ice Service
.........................(641) 684-6207
Wells Enterprises
.........................(800) 942-3800
GENERAL MERCHANDISE
Cylinder Express
.........................(712) 365-4740
Luxury Linens
.........................(312) 822-9393
Pinnacle Propane Express
.........................(630) 461-9609
Unilever...........(630) 339-7672
GOURMET/
SPECIALTY SPICES
B & G Foods....(973) 401-6500
Frontier Co-op
.........................(319) 321-3524
GOVERNMENT AGENCY
Iowa Alcoholic Beverages
Division............(515) 281-7402
Iowa Lottery....(515) 725-7900
Iowa State University Dining
.........................(515) 294-8383
WIC...................(800) 532-1579
INDUSTRY SERVICES
Allen Lund Company
.........................(800) 943-5863
Associated Computer Systems
(ACS)................(515) 233-0078
BKD CPA’s & Advisors
.........................(816) 221-3600
Backes Commercial Auctions
.........................(800) 876-8070
CliftonLarsonAllen
.........................(913) 491-6555
Dean Snyder Construction
.........................(515) 289-0720
Diversey..........(303) 910-5571
E.T. Video........(712) 999-2229
Evolving Edge
.........................(515) 777-3638

IGIA Supplier Member Directory
Federated Insurance
.........................(507) 444-6503
FUELIowa........(515) 224-7545
Harms Oil Company
........................ (605) 696-5000
Holmes Murphy & Associates
.........................(515) 223-6800
Iowa Beef Industry Council
.........................(515) 296-2305
Iowa Pork Producers
.........................(515) 225-7675
Markel.............(888) 500-3344
Midwest Dairy Association
.........................(515) 964-0696
North Risk Partners
.........................(515) 327-8464
Pharmacists Mutual
.........................(515) 295-2461
RSM US LLP.....(515) 558-6646
Ruan Transportation
.........................(515) 245-5464
Rug Doctor......(630) 430-9054
Semiotic Marketing
International, LLC
.........................(312) 802-5877
Seneca.............(515) 262-5000
SHAZAM..........(515) 288-2828
Tarbell.............(515) 282-0200
The Energy Group Company,
Inc....................(515) 564-1045
Tomra of North America
.........................(203) 447-8748
Truck Center Companies
.........................(402) 592-2440
Windstream Enterprises
.........................(319) 924-9332
MEAT/POULTRY/SEAFOOD
Amana Meat Shop &
Smokehouse.... (319) 622-7500
Double Dutch Meat
..........................641) 628-2771
Hormel Foods....(515) 276-8808
Iowa Premium
.........................(641) 849-0106
Kretschmar Deli
.........................(314) 625-9626
Land O’ Frost.....(952) 270-2208
Pilgrim’s...........(320) 493-3633
Star Ranch Angus Beef
.........................(704) 664-6328
Stone Ridge Wholesale LLC
.........................(920) 539-2862
Tyson Foods.....(515) 270-1739
West Liberty Foods
.........................(888) 511-4500
MEDIA/ADVERTISING
Dakota News
.........................(605) 336-3000
Next Step Advertising
.........................(515) 327-1133
Rock Communications
.........................(641) 792-8334
PACKAGING & SUPPLIES
Bunzl................(314) 997-5959
Duro Bag.........(859) 371-2150
Midwest Packaging
.........................(515) 271-0906
Placon Corp......(608) 422-1606
The Brenmar Company
.........................(402) 592-3303
PASTA/PIZZA
Barilla America
.........................(515) 278-2040
Bernatello’s Pizza
........................ (715) 590-2626
Dakota Growers Pasta
.........................(612) 396-5651
Orion/Land Mark Products
.........................(712) 338-2771
PHARMACY
21st Century Healthcare
.........................(480) 966-8201
Lil’ Drug Store Products
.........................(319) 393-0454
PRODUCE
Capital City Fruit
.........................(515) 981-5111
Dole Fresh Vegetables
.........................(515) 630-4612
Fresha..............(320) 219-0654
H. Brooks & Company
.........................(651) 635-0126
Loffredo Fresh Produce
.........................(515) 285-3367
PAT Brokerage
.........................(515) 278-5517
Russ Davis Wholesale
.........................(800) 214-4981
Summertime Potato
.........................(515) 265-9865
RECYCLING
CRINC...............(515) 265-4275
Green RU.........(855) 788-8733
SNACKS
American Pop Corn
.........................(712) 239-1232
Farmers Best Popcorn
.........................(712) 790-8151
Frito-Lay..........(314) 583-7992
Gurley’s Foods
.........................(320) 235-0600
Jack Link’s Beef Jerky
.........................(612) 807-8133
Kickass Snacks
.........................(507) 961-1180
Old Dutch Foods
.........................(651) 633-8810
Shearer’s Snacks
.........................(614) 553-7584
Sterzing Food.....(319) 754-8467
STORE FIXTURES/
EQUIPMENT
Crown Tonka.....(763) 541-1410
Dupey Equipment
.........................(515) 223-0700
Hussmann.......(515) 262-8221
KPI Concepts....(319) 754-5922
Marick..............(515) 243-8288
North Country Business
Products..........(218) 751-4140
Performance Display
.........................(515) 986-0156
Retail Data Systems
.........................(605) 310-4452
Semiotic Marketing
International, LLC
.........................(312) 802-5877
TOBACCO
Altria Sales & Distribution
.........................(608) 251-0815
ITG Brands......(515) 254-0629
JUUL Labs........(314) 406-3313
Liggett Vector Brands
.........................(262) 844-8204
Reynolds American
.........................(336) 741-1486
Swisher International
.........................(904) 598-4643
WHOLESALER/
DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Aldi, Inc............(507) 333-9460
Associated Wholesale Grocers
(913) 288-1510
CERTCO...........(608) 278-2213
Fareway Stores
.........................(515) 432-2623
Farner-Bocken
.........................(800) 274-8692
Hy-Vee.............(515) 267-2800
McCormack Distributing
.........................(712) 546-5133
SpartanNash....(319) 855-2742
UNFI..................(715) 262-8634
WINE & SPIRITS
American Beverage Marketers
(816) 777-7159
Bacardi USA....(614) 403-1410
Banfi Vinters/Excelsior Wines.
(913) 208-9702
Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery
(319) 350-9237
Constellation Brands U.S.
.........................(515) 289-6506
Diageo..............847) 275-8880
E & J Gallo Winery
.........................(515) 987-3935
Foundry Distilling Company
..........................515) 822-7545
Johnson Brothers of Iowa
.........................(515) 262-1199
LUXCO Spirited Brands of Iowa
(515) 554-1630
Phillips Distilling
.........................(612) 362-7500
Sazerac............(515) 202-1661
Southern Glazer’s Wine &
Spirits...............(515) 252-7173
Trinchero Family Estates/Sutter
Home Winery.....(414) 313-7919
2020 Ribbon
Sponsors
WHITE RIBBON
SPONSORS
Altria Client Services
American Pop Corn Company
Arctic Glacier
Barilla
Body Armor
The Boston Beer Company
BKD CPAs & Advisors
Capital City Fruit
Cookies Food Products
Crossmark Sales & Marketing
CrownTonka
Crystal Farms
DFA Dairy Brands
Dakota Growers Pasta Company
Evolving Edge Graphics
Fairlife
Frontier Co-op
Hockenberg Newburgh
Holmes Murphy
Hormel Foods
Hussmann
Johnson Brothers of Iowa
Kickass Beef Jerky
KPI Concepts
Messerschmitt Ice Service
Odyssey/Buholzer Brothers
Orion Land Mark
Pabst Brewing Company
Pan-O-Gold Baking Company
Pilgrim’s Pride
Prairie Farms
Premium Waters
Reynolds American
RSM US
Rose Acre Farms
Russ Davis Wholesale
Shearer’s
Sparboe Companies
SpartanNash
Tyson Foods
UNFI
Unilever
Versova Eggs
Voss Distributing/Red Bull

iowagrocer
IGIA New Members!
Double Dutch Meat/Ulrich Meat Market
Pella, IA
Supplier/Retailer
Foundry Distilling Company
West Des Moines, IA
Supplier
H. Brooks and Company
New Brighton, MN
Retailer
Hometown Foods
Traer, IA
Retailer
Semiotic Marketing International, LLC
Flowery Branch, GA
Supplier
IGIA Membership Renewals
21st Century Healthcare
AE Dairy
Allen Lund
Brooklyn Grocery
Brother’s Market, Clarion
Casey’s General Stores
Crown Tonka
Dole Fresh Vegetables
E.T. Video, Inc.
Fairbank Food Center
Fredericksburg Food Center
Freeman Foods, North English
General Mills
Green RU
JJ’s Valley Mart
Karl’s Grocery
Klondike Cheese Co.
Main Street Market,
Buffalo Center
Midwest Packaging, Inc.
MJ’s Sinclair, Inc.
Monster Energy Company
Nestle U.S.A.
Palmer Candy Company
RSM US LLP
Sterzing Food Co.
Thriftway Food Center
Underwood Truck Stop
Unilever
Vanscoy Industries
THANK
YOU
Hormel Foods
Plant Professionals
for keeping our
communities fed.
• Private Party Rentals
• Daily Tours (M–SA)
• Merchandise sold on site
A one-of-kind craft distillery located in Historic Valley Junction
in West Des Moines, Iowa, Foundry Distilling Co. produces
Foundry Vodka, Okoboji Vodka, Butcher’s Block Vodka,
Foundry Whiskies, The Real Stuff and a lineup of Brewer
Distiller Alliance Whiskies. We also offer custom-label spirits
for businesses, groups and organizations.
Foundry Distilling Co. strives to be one of the most innovative
distilleries in the world by providing unique products,
offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like our Private Barrel
Club, and collaborating with an alliance of nationally recognized
breweries, known as the Brewer Distiller Alliance.
www.foundrydistillingcompany.com
Y
Our products can be found at these fine retail partners:
Fareway Meat and Grocery | Hy-Vee | Kum & Go

SERVING
CUSTOMERS
SINCE 1930.

It’s not JUST business. It’s PERSONAL.
IGIA Member
Blue Ribbon
Sponsor
Family owned and operated
Battle Creek • Iowa
Cylinder Express makes it easy. Just unlock, exchange, collect! Call 888.365.1241
58
At Cylinder Express, we take your
business personally. A call to us means
always being greeted by a person, not an
automated message. It means never running
out of cylinders so you can advertise a special
on propane with complete confidence that
your customers will always find a propane
tank at your store. It means value, quality and
service. It means we treat you like family.
Value — Offering your customers grill
cylinder cages provides your business with
an excellent additional source of income and
increased traffic flow.
Quality — Each cylinder tank that arrives at our
state-of-the-art facilities is carefully inspected,
scraped, cleaned and painted to ensure it’s like new
for your customer.
Service — A friendly team member will assist you
right away, not an automated system. Run ads with
confidence. We deliver weekly or bi-weekly, based
on your need for product.