Bennett recognized by grocers association

Published 10:34 am Thursday, September 15, 2016

The Minnesota Grocers Association has named Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, as a 2016 Hero of the Food Industry. Bennett received the honor for her leadership in advancing the food industry’s priorities during the 2016 Minnesota legislative session.

“Representative Bennett has displayed outstanding leadership in advocating for common sense policies that create job growth and spur economic activity. She truly is a champion of a free marketplace, not placing undue burdens on local business and helping our neighbors keep their shopping baskets full,” President of Minnesota Grocers Association Jamie Pfuhl said. “This award is a testament to her leadership, vision and support of the industry from farm to fork.”

Bennett was presented the award at Wells Marketplace Foods with owner Bruce Mandler before touring the store to further understand the complex nature of the industry and the many challenges faced to remain viable in today’s competitive marketplace.

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“I am honored to receive this award from the Minnesota Grocers Association,” Bennett said. “Minnesota has a diverse economy and the food industry is an important part, providing one out of every 20 jobs in the state. Our community is blessed with an abundant network of job creators to the industry, which includes the entire food chain. I will continue to advocate for main street Minnesota businesses and all Minnesotans.”

According to a press release, MGA is a state trade association representing the food industry since 1897. The organization has over 200 retail members serving over 1,100 locations statewide, as well as over 100 distributors, manufacturers, and wholesale partners.

Member companies of the organization employ over 125,000 union and nonunion Minnesotans. We actively advance the common interest of all those engaged in any aspect of the food industry of Minnesota as a civic leader and advocate.