Iowa Products 2020

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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