wisconsingrocers.com | Summer 2018

Powering Up Your Savings: How Energy Improvements are Easing Cost Burdens

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Wisconsin Grocers Association Grocers PRSRT STD PRSRT 2 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 3 4 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer

WGA Board of Directors Chair Jeff Maurer Fresh Madison Market, Madison, WI Vice Chair Greg Hansen Hansen’s IGA, Bangor, WI Advertisers/Business Partner Listings THE PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE 7 Secretary/Treasurer To Vote or Not To Vote Acuity Insurance ...... 30* Michelle Harrington Albrecht’s Delafield Market, Anheuser-Busch...... 30*, 41** GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS 8 Delafield, WI App Card ...... 31* Legislative Report Card Immediate Past Chairman Associated Wholesale Grocers ...... 2, 41** Marlin Greenfield, Avalara ...... 41** Skogen’s Festival Foods Badger Inventory ...... 41** MARLIN GREENFIELD RETIRES 11 Greg Cross Certco Inc...... 41**, 43 Congratulations, Marlin, on Your Retirement SpartanNash, St. Cloud, MN Crystal Farms ...... 41* Bob Fleming DBS Group ...... 15, 31*, 41** POWERING UP YOUR SAVINGS 12 Fox Run Sentry, Waukesha, WI Federated Insurance...... 6, 41** How Energy Improvements are Easing Jim Hyland Roundy’s/Pick ‘n Save, H. Brooks & Company ...... 39, 41** Cost Burdens for Grocers , WI KeHE Distributors ...... 31*, 41** Bob Jaskolski, T.A. Solberg, Inc., Kemps Dairy...... 31*, 38, 42** MEMBER SERVICE UPDATE 16 Minocqua, WI Krueger Wholesale...... 42** Never Lose Sight of the “Bigger Thing” Steve Loehr Kwik Trip, La Crosse, WI Lipari Foods...... 42**, 44 Jeff McClure MillerCoors...... 32*, 42** FOUNDATION 20 Next Energy Solution, Inc...... 14 SuperValu, Green Bay,WI Leadership: Classes and Sponsorships Rick Roth Pan O Gold ...... 42** Great Lakes Coca-Cola, Plover, WI Prairie Farms ...... 32*, 42** SCORE 21 Robert Rothove Associated Professional Supply ...... 19 Wholesale Grocers, Kenosha, WI Russ Davis Wholesale ...... 3, 33*, 42** Dave Ryman Shullsburg Creamery ...... 33*, 34, 42** WGA BUSINESS PARTNER Certco, Madison, WI Society Insurance ...... 42** PROFILES 30 Toby Spangler SpartanNash ...... 4, 34*, 42** Diageo, Madison, WI Sparboe Companies ...... 18 Acuity | DBS Group | KeHE Dave Spiegelhoff SuperValu ...... 42** Gooseberries, Burlington, WI Wisconsin Lottery...... 29 A HISTORICAL TOUR 35 Don Symonds Wisconsin Wins ...... 18 Kroger in Wisconsin Lipari Foods, Warren, MI Zone Mechanical North Inc...... 10, 42** Jeff Tate Watertown Piggly Wiggly, * Business Partner Profile GRACIE’S DOGGIE DELIGHTS 37 Watertown, WI **Professional Card Listing Blazing the Trail Dan Williamson Kemps, Cedarburg, WI MEMBER EVENTS AND Deb Yerkes Zone Mechanical North, Alsip, IL HAPPENINGS 36, 38-41 WGA Staff President/CEO Brandon Scholz Executive Vice President Save the Dates for 2018 Events Michelle Kussow Wisconsin Grocers Foundation Events Director Leadership Institute Cheryl Lytle Grocery Specific Operations Director Food Safety Sarah Decorah Certification Classes Member Service Representative Mark Stellpflug Executive Director, Food Safety Innovation A Day in the WGA Education and Scholarship Foundation Certification Classes Leadership Institute Expo Field Dave Kotwitz August 1 Valley Cooperative October 16 & 17 August 22 Baker Tilly, Madison December 5 Marketing Coordinator Association, Greenville (Appleton) Hyatt Regency & KI Center Milford Hills Hunt Club, Maddy Harrison September 19 Sept 19 Palermo's Pizza, Milwaukee Mehmert Store Services, Pewaukee Green Bay Milford

Please help us conserve resources. If you are receiving multiple copies or wish to be removed from this mailing list, please EDITORIAL INFORMATION: Publication dates; March, May, August, December. Please submit all press releases and stories to call the WGA office at 888/342-5942. Brandon Scholz, Publisher, at the Wisconsin Grocers Association; toll free 888/342-5942; fax 608/244-9030. Wisconsin Grocer magazine is designed by Lorraine Ortner-Blake, [email protected]. Wisconsin Grocer is published four times a year by: Wisconsin Grocers Association, 33 East Main Street, Suite 701, Madison, WI 53703 • www.wisconsingrocers.com. ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Please submit all advertising material and questions to Cheryl Lytle, Wisconsin Grocers Association, 33 E Main Street, Suite 701, Madison, WI 53703, call 608/244-7150; fax 608/244-9030; email [email protected]. Toll free 888/342-5942; fax 608/244-9030. Materials in this publication may not be reprinted in any form without permission of the Wisconsin Grocers Association. The Wisconsin Grocer Magazine is printed at Thysse Printing, Oregon, Wisconsin.

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 5 6 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com THE PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Brandon Scholz WGA President and CEO

To Vote or Not To Vote? That is the simply isn’t a good reason to knocking on your door, calling General. There is a lot at stake. not vote. Unless of course, you your phone and every other Governor Walker’s reelection is question. choose not vote. way they can think of to get in vitally important for tax On August 14th, you’ll have the touch with you. If you are happy with the folks reform, reducing regulation, opportunity to vote for the that are in office in Madison candidates to take their next step Sure, you can tune them out. helping to create jobs and and enter the general election by and Washington, DC, you Ignore them and pretend they train prospective employees. winning the primary or end their need to make an effort to send aren’t there. But that doesn’t Attorney General Brad campaign. them back. And obviously if give you license to complain Schimel needs to continue his your current elected about the job they are doing. crusade to rid the workplace That is, if you vote. August representatives aren’t doing of opioids, provide crime isn’t a great month to have an Much has been said about the their job, you have to be part victim services and defend election. It’s summertime. impending “Blue Wave” that is of the solution. That means the state against attacks on Families go on vacation. It going to defeat many you have to business and more. doesn’t seem Republicans and jettison many vote on like it’s time ...if your current elected new Democrats into office. Senator Tammy Baldwin’s August 14th to vote. There Famous Pol Tip O’Neil said, reelection could tip the representatives aren’t and again are all sorts of “All politics are local.” I agree balance of majority control on excuses. doing their job, you and I think that trumps (no in the US Senate. Once the November Sometimes pun here) Blue Waves. It means two GOP candidates get have to be part of the 6th. In this people just that if you look at your State through the primary, the election forget. Legislator and Congressman, real battle begins. solution. year, voters chances are you have a sense of I’ve missed voting once. I was and elected officials can’t take To vote or not to vote? It whether or not they are doing out of state and didn’t get an anything for granted. really shouldn’t be a question. their job. If so, the job absentee ballot sent in time. I Take 20 minutes and do it. Our political atmosphere is a performance beats a mythical still remember that blunder on Make sure all of your swirling, whirling cacophony wave. If, you vote. my part 34 years ago. But employees, friends and family of political messages and barring any sort of crises or Wisconsin has three major vote. Don’t regret sitting this campaigns with non-stop physical inability to make it to statewide elections: Governor, one out. political advertising, social the polling station, there US Senate, and Attorney media, direct mail, people Go vote August 14th.

New Board Members New WGA Staff Member Welcome Maddy Harrison as the newest member of the WGA team! Maddy is a recent graduate with a Jim Hyland Bob Jaskolski Deb Yerkes Jeff Maurer, Michelle Greg Hansen, Marketing Coordinator business degree from Roundy’s/Pick 'n Save Trig’s Zone Mechanical North Chair Harrington, Vice Chair Maddy Harrison Clarkson University Maurer’s Market Secretary/Treasurer Hansen’s IGA and is new to Wisconsin from The WGA Board of Directors approved three new Albrecht’s Delafield Rochester, NY. Maddy will be board members to serve (up to) three, three-year Sentry helping out with marketing and terms on the WGA Board. Joining the board are WGA Chair Jeff Maurer (Maurer’s Market) event tasks. We are also very Jim Hyland of Roundy’s/Pick 'n Save; Deb Yerkes of appointed Michelle Harrington (Albrecht’s pleased to have her use her Zone Mechanical North and Bob Jaskolski of Trig’s. Delafield Sentry) to serve as the WGA’s expertise to assist with increasing Many thanks to these new board members for Secretary/Treasurer. She will also serve on WGA’s social media presence to their commitment to serve the grocery industry the Executive Committee which serves as the engage our members. You'll see and help WGA members by their serving on the Finance and Nominating Subcommittees. Maddy at the Expo and when you board working to improve the offerings of the Greg Hansen takes on the Vice Chair position. do, please help us welcome her to WGA. Congratulations and thank you! Congratulations and welcome aboard!! the WGA!

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 7 Government Affairs

By Michelle Kussow Legislative Report Card WGA Executive Vice President In 1998, the WGA published the first Legislative Report Card as a way for WGA members to quickly assess how their legislators performed on key industry issues.

unclaimed property and reducing statute of SUMMARY: Eliminates the below-cost sales on Legislators are graded, based on limitations from six to three years. prescription drugs and other related products. action specific to key WGA legislative OUTCOME: Signed into law 2017 Wisconsin Act The bill introduced by Rep. Jim Ott (R- issues. Points are given to an 235, effective July 1, 2018. Mequon) and Senator Leah Vukmir (R- Wauwatosa) does not eliminate the below cost individual for introducing or voting IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Will save businesses time sales provision or minimum markup for gas, in favor of legislation that WGA and money with lower litigation costs and alcohol and tobacco or groceries. supports, and transversely points are removing unnecessary and burdensome taken away for supporting legislation requirements in civil lawsuits. OUTCOME: Failed, no action taken in either that WGA opposes. house. Extra points are given for introducing SALES TAX HOLIDAY IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: The Unfair Sales Act and pro-WGA amendments, speaking for or minimum markup laws remain unchanged. WGA POSITION: Support as amended against proposals of interest, committee action, attending/speaking at WGA’s SUMMARY: Creates a sales tax holiday August 1- COOKIE BILL Grocers in the Capitol Day, and general 5, 2018 exempting the following from the sales WGA POSITION: Opposed support of the WGA’s issues. tax: clothing with a sales price of no more than $75 per item; computers used for personal use SUMMARY: Exempts home bakers receiving less with a sales price no more than $750; and than $25,000 annually from food sales from school and computer supplies. licensing and inspection requirements. PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX OUTCOME: Signed into law 2017 Wisconsin Act OUTCOME: Passed Senate, failed due to no EXEMPTION 367, effective April 19, 2018 action in Assembly. IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: WGA POSITION: Support Wisconsin retailers will A court case declared need to carefully identify items that will not be Wisconsin’s ban on selling home-baked goods SUMMARY: $75 million personal property tax subject to sales tax during this time period. unconstitutional, which allows home bakers to exemption for “machinery” defined as “a sell unlimited baked goods that do not require structure or assemblage of parts that transmits EMPLOYMENT PREEMPTION refrigeration directly to consumers without forces, motion or energy from one part to oversight and regulation by DATCP and food WGA POSITION: Support another in a predetermined way by electrical, safety laws. mechanical or chemical means. SUMMARY: Prohibits municipalities from OUTCOME: Signed into law 2017 Wisconsin enacting labor and employment ordinances such LIMITING FOODSHARE Act 59, effective January 1, 2018 as: requiring employee schedules two weeks in advance, requiring specific occupational ELIGIBLE FOODS IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Exempting machinery WGA POSITION: Opposed from the personal property tax removes many licensing; and mandating employee benefits. high-dollar items, such as coolers & deli OUTCOME: Signed into law, 2017 Wisconsin Act SUMMARY: This bill would have created a pilot equipment, from the personal property tax 327, effective April 18, 2018. program limiting FoodShare eligible foods based saving grocers a significant amount of money. IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Municipalities will not be on nutrition value. able to enact ordinances on labor and OUTCOME: Passed Assembly, Failed to pass CHILD LABOR PERMITS FOR employment issues. Senate. 16- & 17-YEAR OLDS IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Saves retailers from WGA POSITION: Support SODA EQUIPMENT RENTALS having to implement a specific list of foods that WGA POSITION: are not eligible for SNAP. SUMMARY: Repeals requirement to obtain child Support labor permits for minors ages 16 and 17. SUMMARY: Repeals requirement that retailers PHOTO ID’S ON FOODSHARE/ OUTCOME: Signed into law 2017 Wisconsin rent or lease equipment (including soda vending Act 11, effective June 23, 2017 machines, coolers and dispensing equipment) QUEST CARDS from soda wholesaler. WGA POSITION: Opposed IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Retailers no longer need permits for the majority of minor employees, OUTCOME: Passed Assembly, Failed due to no SUMMARY: Introduced as part of Governor saving a significant amount of time and $10 per action in Senate. Walker’s welfare reform special session, this bill employee. IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Retailers will continue to would have required Quest cards to contain be subject to rental and lease fees for soda photo identification. CIVIL LITIGATION REFORM equipment. OUTCOME: Passed Assembly, Failed to pass Senate. WGA POSITION: Support UNFAIR SALES ACT/MINIMUM IMPACT ON INDUSTRY: Retailers will not need to SUMMARY: Reforms civil procedures for discovery and class actions including removing MARKUP check Quest cards during SNAP/FoodShare contingency fees for 3rd party audits on WGA POSITION: Opposed transactions to ensure that the photo on the card matches the individual.

8 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com Government Affairs

Legislators that receive an “A” are given the “Friend of Grocers The awards naturally stand out against the uniform wall of walnut Award” which is represented on a plaque affixed to a miniature plagues. The coveted nature of the cart award allows WGA to shopping cart. remind legislators on key issues during the session that will later be used in the report card scoring. It also works the other way, and Twenty years later, the WGA Report Card and Friend of Grocers each year we are asked by anxious legislators what they need to do Awards are still serving the same purpose and have become to get the cart. With the Report Card and Friend of Grocers Award somewhat iconic in the Wisconsin Capitol. Many longtime Program working as intended, we are happy to continue the legacy legislators have earned numerous awards, and proudly display the and provide the results of the 2017-2018 Legislative Report Card miniature carts like shopping carts lined up in a store’s vestibule. in this issue.

Thomas Tiffany (R-Hazelhurst) session. A ASSEMBLY The following legislators earned the highest B Jimmy Anderson (D-Fitchburg) grade given by the WGA. These individuals (R-Menomonee Falls) The following legislators have been given a have consistently supported and introduced James Edming (R-Glen Flora) legislation that benefits the grocery “B” grade by the WGA. This admirable Jason Fields (D-Milwaukee) industry, and therefore, are considered a mark is given to legislators who are “Friend of Grocers.” Their efforts will be generally supportive of our industry and, (D-Milwaukee) recognized by receiving the WGA therefore, deserving of the WGA (R-Mukwanago) endorsement and a miniature grocery cart, endorsement. Andre Jacque (R-DePere) which applauds their hard work on our ASSEMBLY Adam Jarchow (R-Balsam Lake) behalf. (R-Waukesha) (R-Oostburg) ASSEMBLY Robert Brooks (R-Saukville) (R-Oconomowoc) Dave Murphy (R-Greenville) (R-Lake Geneva) (R-Town of Delafield) Lee Nerison (R-Westby) Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) Mary Felzkowski (R-Irma) Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca) (R-Beaver Dam) (D-Oshkosh) (R-Eleva) Ed Brooks (R-Reedsburg) (R-Salem) Romaine Quinn (R-Rice Lake) Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) (R-Sturgeon Bay) (R-Franklin) John Jagler (R-Watertown) (R-Ledgeview) (R-Oshkosh) (R-Germantown) (R-Crivitz) (D-Stevens Point) Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) (R-Dodgeville) Patrick Snyder (R-Wausau) (R-Nekoosa) Mike Rohrkaste (R-Neenah) Rob Stafsholt (R-New Richmond) (R-New Berlin) (R-New Berlin) (R-Bloomer) Bob Kulp (R-Stratford) (R-Franklin) (R-Fond du Lac) (R-Clinton) (R-Green Bay) (R-Cuba City) (R-Pewaukee) (R-Rhinelander) (R-Appleton) John Nygren (R-Marinette) Nancy Vander Meer (R-Tomah) Tom Weatherston (R-Caledonia) (R-Marshfield) (R-Plymouth) (R-Muskego) (R-Kaukauna) (R-River Falls) (R-Bonduel) SENATE SENATE (R-Manitowoc) Devin Lemahieu (R-Oostburg) Terry Moulton (R-Chippewa Falls) (R-Rochester) Stephen Nass (R-Whitewater) Leah Vukmir (R-Brookfield) SENATE Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon) Robert Cowles (R-Green Bay) D Jennifer Shilling (D-LaCrosse) David Craig (R-Town of Vernon) Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point) The following legislators have been given a Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) “D” because they have voted against the Dan Feyen (R-Fond du Lac) WGA on key issues and have not supported Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) major policy efforts. The WGA will (R-Delafield) C encourage these officials to support our The following legislators received a “C” for Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) issues. expressing a willingness to support our ASSEMBLY Roger Roth (R-Appleton) industry. The WGA will encourage them to Duey Stroebel (R-Saukville) be more supportive in the next legislative Peter Barca (D-Kenosha)

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 9 Government Affairs

Terese Berceau (D-Madison) Treig Pronschinske (R-Mondovi) Kathy Bernier (R-Chippewa Falls) (D-Milwaukee) F (D-LaCroosse) Melissa Sargent (D-Madison) The following legislators have worked David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) D-Milwaukee) against the WGA and its members and (D-Milwaukee) Amanda Stuck (D-Appleton) have voted against WGA positions. They Dave Considine (D-Baraboo) (D-Madison) have earned an “F” grade. David Crowley (D-Milwaukee) Chris Taylor (D-Madison) ASSEMBLY Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) (D-Milton) (D-South Range) Eric Genrich (D-Green Bay) Dana Wachs (D-Eau Claire) (D-Beloit) (D-Sun Prairie) (D-Milwaukee) SENATE (D-Middleton) JoCasta Zamarripa (D-Milwaukee) Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) Frederick Kessler (D-Milwaukee) Josh Zepnick (D-Milwaukee) LaTonya Johnson (D-Milwaukee) Debra Kolste (D-Janesville) SENATE Chris Larson (D-Milwaukee) Jesse Kremer (R-Kewaskum) Janet Bewley (D-Ashland) Mark Miller (D-Monona) (D-Bayfield) Timothy Carpenter (D-Milwaukee) Janis Ringhand (D-Evansville) (D-Kenosha) Robert Wirch (D-Kenosha) Fred Risser (D-Madison) Jim Ott (R-Mequon) Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton) Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee) (D-Mt. Horeb) Kathleen Vinehout (D-Alma)

Zone Mechanical North 9645 S 54th Avenue, Suite N Franklin, WI 53132-9179

10 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com Marlin Greenfield Retires CONGRATULATIONS, MARLIN, ON YOUR RETIREMENT! Thank you for your leadership and guidance with the WGA and the grocery industry! Marlin Greenfield, Senior Operations Leader, retired April 30 after more than 28 years of service with Festival. For most of his Festival career, Marlin served as Chief Operations Officer. Since 2015, he has served as Senior Operations Leader, a role that provided him the flexibility to serve Festival in a pre-retirement role as a mentor and support leader for Festival’s store operations teams. Marlin joined the Skogen family business in 1990 when they opened their first Festival Foods store in Onalaska, WI. He later moved his family to the east side of Wisconsin as the company continued to expand and most recently assisted owner Mark Skogen with the operation of their 31 stores. Prior to joining Festival Foods, Marlin worked for both Copps and Cub Foods. Marlin has served on the WGA Board since 2010 and as Chairman from 2016 – March, 2018. "Marlin has set the high-bar of service to the WGA," said WGA President & CEO Brandon. "As a board member, committee chair and recently as Board Chairman, Marlin has always been there to support and enhance the WGA's programs and staff. He has been an invaluable mentor to me and has helped me grow professionally to better serve the members of the WGA." In 2015, he was awarded the Wisconsin Grocers Care Political Action Award, which recognized his many efforts to advance the grocery industry in the state. He also volunteered his time and knowledge to share his experiences with young industry leaders through the WGA Foundation’s Leadership Institute. “Marlin was one of the best board members we’ve ever worked with,” said WGA Executive Vice President Michelle Kussow. “He’s the guy that not only said what he’d do, but did what he said! And, he did it often. He’s done so much to help the association on numerous levels from making calls to retailers to encourage attendance and testifying at the state capitol. Whatever we needed, Marlin wanted to find a way to help. It goes without saying that all of us at WGA will miss working with Marlin!” We wish Marlin, his wife, Judi and his family all the best as Marlin sails into the sunsets of a well-deserved retirement!

2018 Spring WISCONSIN GROCER 11 Powering Up Your Savings: How Energy Improvements are Easing Cost Burdens for Grocers

Written exclusively for the WGA by Kat Boogaard

As a grocer, what’s your costliest bill each and every month? If you let out a groan and mentioned something about electricity, you aren’t alone.

That’s a huge cost burden cost, long-term loans for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and for all grocers. In fact, it’s water conservation improvements. been reported that the “One of the easiest ones in terms of refrigeration is LED case energy consumption of lights,” adds Sarah Speck, Energy Engineer with Focus on Energy, a state-wide efficiency program that’s overseen by the State of grocery stores is among the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, “They have a reduction in highest of all commercial wattage, so grocers are saving the kilowatt hours off of their bills. buildings. They also produce less heat, and—inside a refrigerated space—the last thing you want is heat. So, you not only have a reduction of That overwhelming expense kilowatt hours, but also a heat reduction on your refrigeration combined with an increasing system.” focus on renewable and clean energy means that more and Already swapped out all of your lightbulbs? From switching to more grocers are in search of low-energy motors to upgrading all of your open refrigerated cases ways to make their stores more to units with doors, there are plenty of projects ranging from big energy efficient—while saving to small that grocers can investigate to improve their store’s some cash in the process. efficiency. On the Bright Side: A Growing Focus on Energy Improvements Solar as a Potential Energy Solution for Grocers The conversation around energy consumption in Solar energy is one solution that more and more the grocery industry isn’t a new one. It’s been an area grocers are turning to. “We had sort of maxed out of focus for cost-conscious and environmentally- our store on energy savings,” says Dave Seeber, minded grocers for quite some time. Owner of Lakewood Supervalu, who recently had But, with energy-efficient technologies continuing to improve, solar panels installed on his flat roof, “Everything in there are more options than ever for grocers who are looking to the store is LED, we’ve gone to low-energy fan motors in all of make improvements to their own stores—even for those who don’t our refrigeration units—there wasn’t too much left to do for have a ton of resources to cover a major up-front cost. savings on energy.” “Oftentimes the cheapest energy savings are in efficiency measures At that point, Seeber made the decision to work with Next Energy like lighting, refrigeration, and building automation systems,” Solution to leverage solar energy to alleviate some of his energy explains Jason Stringer, Program Administrator of PACE cost burden. Wisconsin, a program that enables property owners to obtain low- In the summer of 2017, 400 panels were installed on the roof of

12 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com One final concern about solar energy that looms in the mind of most grocers is the weight—will the weight of the panels be too much for their flat roofs to handle? But, Quinn says they’re far lighter than you might expect. “The system that we have at Dave’s store is a lightweight system. It only adds 1.92 pounds per square foot. It’s less than putting a Dave’s store. They went into effect at the end of September 2017. layer of shingles on a roof,” “Prices are dropping so While some might worry about the process of getting that many Quinn explains. panels up and running, Seeber insists it couldn’t have been less Needless to say, the quickly and the efficiency disruptive. drawbacks related to solar of these technologies is “There was no disruption,” he says, “They never had to turn the are few. But, the benefits power off or anything like that. It was as simple of a process as it can be huge—particularly increasing, so your ROI could be for us.” when it comes to cost savings. “The nice thing might’ve gone from 30 It’s evidence that many of the concerns and preconceived notions with solar is it allows you that many grocers have about solar energy often end up being to control your fixed cost years to 15 years or even false. Take Wisconsin’s cold and harsh climate, for example. “The now and down the road,” interesting thing with solar panels is they actually function more says Quinn, “You’re buying 10 years.” efficiently at lower temperatures,” says Seeber, who states that he your electricity for the next actually produced more energy per hour in March than he was in 25 years. It locks pricing in today.” the end of June. Seeber has witnessed about a 10-15% savings on his energy bill “We get more sun time right now because the sun is up longer, so each month—sometimes a little more, and sometimes a little less. we’re producing more per day,” Seeber adds, “But, we were However, he says the most astounding thing was those times when actually producing more per hour when it was bright, sunny, and his panels were producing more energy than he was actually using. 35 degrees out. They say solar panels are about 8-10% more “There were a couple of days in March where I was actually selling efficient in lower temperatures.” energy back to WPS,” he says. Foley Quinn, the owner of Next Energy Solution who worked That savings can be huge for grocers. “Grocers have a very small with Dave to get the solar panels installed, also states that the profit margin,” says Speck, “Anything they can do to add to their snow itself can actually help bottom line is of benefit to them. Anytime they can reduce utility solar panels—as opposed to bills, that’s an increase in their profits.” Needless to say, the harm them as you might assume. “It’s called the drawbacks related to solar double bounce,” he says, All About the Money: are few. But, the benefits “The sun will reflect off the The Finances Behind Solar Energy snow and onto the panels. can be huge—particularly It multiplies the amount of While the cost savings can be major, there’s one weighty energy into each panel and concern with solar energy that we haven’t touched on yet: the when it comes to cost works wonders for expense involved with getting them installed. increasing production.” Solar energy can be costly when compared with other smaller savings. “The nice thing Speaking of snow, energy improvements. However, if it’s something that you’ve with solar is it allows you maintenance is another previously written off as too expensive or out of reach, it’s worth common concern about some reconsideration. to control your fixed cost solar panels—particularly “If you looked at solar three or four years ago, solar has gone when piles of snow down in price about 50% in that time,” says Scott Coenen, now and down the road.” accumulate on top of the Executive Director of Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum, an flat roof where the solar organization dedicated to shifting the conversation around panels are located. However, Seeber insists it was yet another thing renewable energy, energy fuels, and energy sustainability from an that didn’t end up being a big issue. There were only a couple of environmental perspective to an economic perspective. times when he had to head up and brush the snow off of the “Prices are dropping so quickly and the efficiency of these panels. But, in the vast majority of cases, even a hint of sunshine technologies is increasing, so your ROI might’ve gone from 30 meant the snow melted right off. years to 15 years or even 10 years,” he adds, “There are some solar “There’s almost no maintenance or cleaning,” says Quinn, “One contracts around the country that are going for 2.5 to 3 cents a of the things I’ve come to understand about grocers is that they kilowatt hour. In Wisconsin, if you’re a resident, you’re paying 10 work very hard selling groceries and the last thing they need is to 13 cents a kilowatt hour for your power. This is about your more maintenance.” bottom line. Don’t rule anything out—there are a lot of things that are changing here.” >

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 13 Powering Up Your Savings: How Energy Improvements are Easing Cost Burdens for Grocers, continued from page 13 In addition to the improvements in technology and the reduction in Finally, grocers should look into the various grants that are available to up-front cost, there are numerous other programs, initiatives, and help offset the cost of their energy projects. Quinn explains that Next benefits that can help grocers manage this investment for their Energy Solutions has a full-time grant writer on staff who was able to businesses. secure substantial RECIP and Focus on Energy grants for the installation of Seeber’s panels at Lakewood Supervalu. First up, there’s the tax credit. With the federal solar tax credit, also referred to as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), property owners can So, while the up-front cost of energy improvements like solar might deduct 30% off the cost of their solar equipment on their taxes. That seem unmanageable, rest assured that there are plenty of ways to ease equates to some pretty huge savings. that burden. There’s also affordable financing out there. Focus on Energy, for example, offers financial incentives (which Speck explains is Beyond the Bills: Other Benefits of essentially similar to a mail-in rebate) and 0% financing that you can do on top of various tax credits for renewable energy projects. “It’s Focusing on Energy Consumption subject to financial and technical underwriting, but the benefit is the Understandably, the financial benefits are the main focus when it project is cash flow-positive from the beginning and the customer comes to solar and other ways to save on energy. However, there’s doesn’t have to pay into the loan until they get their incentive check. another factor at play here: your reputation. That’s basically their first payment—they sign it over to the loan.” “There are a lot of customers who would view this as a very positive thing,” PACE Wisconsin also makes it easier for grocers to finance those says Coenen, “If you’re a grocer and you’re able to deploy some of these larger energy improvements. “Projects financed using PACE can renewable technologies, there’s a great public relations story there as well.” generate positive cash flow upon completion with no up-front, out- That’s something that Seeber made sure to emphasize in his own store— of-pocket cost to property owners,” says Stringer. even installing a flat-screen television within his store that displays the Stringer explains that any commercial property owner is eligible to energy savings of the solar panels. “The customer response has been use PACE financing through PACE Wisconsin, and it can be used incredibly positive,” he adds. for existing buildings or new construction. To start a PACE project, With so many benefits related to focusing on energy efficiency and building owners select a lender and then collaborate with them to renewable energy, there’s never been a better time to look into meet the program requirements. These requirements include things improvements you could implement within your own store. Even those like completing an energy assessment to evaluate the building and seemingly small changes can help to power up your store—both literally the planned improvements as well as obtaining mortgage lender and figuratively. consent. Let the Sun Stabilize your Electrical Costs Call to see if you are eligible for grants at (715) 416-3022

Maintenance Free 30 Year Performance Guarantee Under 5 Years to Pay Off* *depending on availability and approval of grants

461 Hwy 63, Shell Lake WI 54871 | (715) 416-3022 | NextEnergySolution.com

14 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 15 MEMBER SERVICE UPDATE

Never Lose Sight of the “Bigger Thing”

Running a lead it through a couple of expansions, and shape the work environment, the grocery store ultimately build a replacement store. In the compensation structure and customer today is no course of twenty five years we were able to shopping experience in our store to reflect quadruple the store’s sales volume and my beliefs and core values. And that if we small task. profitability. Was it an easy task? Absolutely were going to succeed, the only thing that The typical not! Was it ultimately rewarding in many would limit that ultimate success would be owner/store manager ways? Absolutely! Most rewarding to me an unwillingness on my part to pay the price needs to be a personally was the fact that I always via hard work. approached leading our business with a drive recruiter, financier, As I travel the state and interact with owners to be the best we could be! I knew in my accountant, human and managers, and look at the wide variety heart of hearts that in America I was free to resource manager, of store design, niche marketing, community advertising executive, involvement, company cultures, and Mark Stellpflug marketing expert, WGA Member entrepaneurs out there I take great comfort Service Representative psychologist, in the fact that the free market is alive and cheerleader, janitor, well! And that there are lots of folks that still merchandiser, counselor, buck-stops-here- embrace the American Dream daily. I often person, leader, and sometimes even a grocer. quip when I visit stores that it’s important And in the midst of the myriad of things to for those of us on staff in the WGA to get plan for, prepare for, and implement on a out of the “bubble” that Madison can be, daily basis it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger and actually get out into the real world. And things actually taking place as you go there is an important reminder for all of us through a typical week. in that quip. Despite the news coming out of I am reminded of this “bigger thing” Washington, Madison, and the flavor-of-the- often when I visit WGA member stores day hyper ventilated grievance we are being throughout the state as your Members bombarded with; the real world still exists, Services Representative, and I talk to and most of us are living in that world every retailers that are enthusiastically and day. In the midst of this reality each of us has energetically engaging the day to day to make a personal decision as to how we are operation of their business. And maybe it’s going to respond; join the cacophony of also the time of year that makes me more judgment and finger pointing, or moving sensitive to this topic; with the national forward in positivity and personal integrity. holidays of Memorial Day and the The typical owner/store You may not be able to change the world, Independence Day recently celebrated. What manager needs to be a but you definitely can positively impact the is the “bigger thing” of which I refer? It’s the culture with in the four walls of your store, reality that despite its warts and problems, recruiter, financier, and in the community you serve. America is still a free market capitalist accountant, human In summation, as you strive daily to system, and each one of you as an owner or maintain and grow your business it’s easy to manager is in the driver seat of this endeavor. resource manager, lose sight of the bigger thing. Always As you struggle for survival daily in the ever remember, you have the freedom in this changing world of grocery retailing it’s easy advertising executive, country to dream big! To shape and grow to lose sight of the bigger opportunity before marketing expert, your business in ways only your own us; in America each of us has the imagination and ingenuity can devise. opportunity to take responsibility for, and to psychologist, cheerleader, be in charge of our own destiny! To pursue And to be a part of this thing that is the American dream! janitor, merchandiser, sometimes called the “American Experiment.” Yes, when this country was I grew up in the grocery business, and my counselor, buck-stops- founded over 250 years ago it certainly was wife and I continued the family tradition by here-person, leader, and an experiment; and even today the purchasing the store from my parents. Over experiment continues. Embrace the the years we were able to grow that business, sometimes even a grocer. experiment! God bless America!

16 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com InnovationThe Wisconsin Grocers Association Presents

Register todayat wisconsingrocers.com

• Explore and learn. October 16 & 17, 2018 Discover new technology, trends, Hyatt Regency and KI Convention Center | GREEN BAY and information at timely seminars • Connect and network. Meet your grocery friends and make new connections in the grocery industry throughout Wisconsin Honors and Awards • Yell and cheer. Enter your best bagger or choose a favorite contestant to cheer on at the Great Wisconsin Bag-Off • Recognize Award Seminars Winners. Congratulate 2018 honorees at the Chairman’s Awards Banquet including: • Grocer of the Year • Vendor of the Year • Excellence In Operations Honorees • Community Service Honorees • Diamond Sponsors Great Wisconsin Bag-Off • Win Prizes! NEW Trade Show Bingo for $1000 cash! Plus NEW Trade Show Cash! $100 winners announced regularly. You must be present to win! • Pallet of Product Grocery Industry Trade Show Foundation Fundrasier Retailers submit sealed bids for pallets of products. Wisconsin Grocers Association 33 East Main Street, Suite 701 | Madison WI 53703 | (608) 210–3303

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 17 Zone Mechanical North 9645 S 54th Avenue, Suite N Franklin, WI 53132-9179

18 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 19 FOUNDATION

Wisconsin Grocers Association Education and Leadership: Scholarship Classes and Sponsorships FOUNDATION

As I’m sure you have guessed by now, not Again, this is the gold of this exercise. If you are The everyone exhibits just one kind of style. Most the driver how would you motivate amiables to David Kotwitz Wisconsin everyone has a work style and a play style and get going on a project and have their buy in? By Executive Director WGA most people are a mixture of styles and not studying the styles you can understand what Education and Scholarship Grocers exclusively one. As you were reading this I hope makes your co-workers tick and use that Foundation you thought about primarily what style you information to manage better and smarter. Leadership are and what style you have difficulty with. The class ends with a discussion about what That is where the gold of this exercise lies, how social styles they would assign to the characters Institute classes underway. your style mixes with other styles to make a team in SpongeBob SquarePants. Yes, that’s right. and how you can adapt your style to manage a different one. This highlights just one of the 16 classes that Wisconsin Grocers Foundation We have gathered together twenty- make up the Leadership Institute’s four full days Leadership Institute One of the first things the students hear two students from around the state of classes. Our goal is to introduce the next and then hear repeated is: There is not one for four days of classes over four generation of grocery leaders to the concepts best style. months utilizing twelve industry and ideas that make this industry exciting and professionals to help guide and All styles have their pros and cons. If you can challenging to be a part of. educate the next generation of grocers. identify first what your style is and second what ______One of the topics we cover is social styles, or how the person you are trying to manage is, you can different humans with different styles can work as go a long way in knowing how your directions or Before the end of 2018 we have a few ways that a team to get something done. The leadership expectations should be phrased. you can financially support the work of the Foundation. class uses the Driver, Amiable, Expressive, Analytical The leadership students begin by filling out a Innovation classifications to describe how individual styles short social styles test that lets them numerically PALLET OF PRODUCT work or don’t work with each other. rank what kind of style they are. It is an important SILENT AUCTION Drivers are the “get it done” type people. They starting point to fill it out honestly because At the Innovation Expo this October in Green walk quickly, speak quickly, often interrupt to students need to understand themselves before Bay we will again be offering for bid Pallets of summarize a discussion to move it along and they can ever hope to understand others. By Product. Our vendor partners generously provide express thoughts as tasks reviewing a few slides that name attributes of each us with pallets of assorted products that you have rather than feelings. They style they can begin to see the chance to bid on and win. All of the pallets go TASK Directed Responsiveness evaluate by using facts and how they react and process for much less than the normal wholesale cost calculating the probability information. They also allowing you to make that much more profit while of success, decide, and begin to understand how helping the WGA Foundation continue its

TELL others do the same thing. education and resource providing mission to grocers. implement. Analytical Driver As some of the attributes On December 5th, 2018, we will

Analyticals walk slowly and Directed Assertiveness of a certain style are talked hold our fourth annual Day in the deliberately, speak slowly about I can see heads and clearly, seldom Field hunt at Milford Hills Hunt begin to nod in agreement Club, a day of trap shooting as a interrupt, gather data, use and eyes start to widen. lists and also express warm up to getting into the field thoughts as tasks and not AssertivenessDirected Another way to further with guides and dogs to hunt pheasant and Amiable Expressive define the differences is to chukar. We are looking to expand our core group feelings. If you need data ASK researched before making a show some slides dividing of faithful participants to this decision these are the folks the styles into quadrants: great day in the field. Task versus People, and you would turn loose—but PEOPLE Directed Responsiveness give them a time frame. Ask versus Tell. Each style falls into one of the Your Foundation Expressives are the energetic “lets have fun while quadrants and combines a different set. we do this” people. They walk quickly, jibber When looking at this depiction of social styles jabber all the time, often interrupt to tell a story Foundation Sponsors that has no direct correlation to what you are another revelation becomes apparent. The styles kitty-corner from each other are the styles that are doing, can appear loud and process thoughts with Anheuser Busch examples and analogies. They work hard and play most opposite and therefore the most difficult to work with. Arctic Glacier hard. Federated Insurance Amiables are the “let’s everyone get along” folks. Driver: let’s get this going and just do what I say Kemps They talk slowly and listen as much as speak, walk to do; Amiable: let’s slow down here a minute Patrick Cudahy slowly and purposefully, consider everything by and see what everyone else thinks first. Analytical: Russ Davis Wholesale how it affects the team and are generally warm I don’t have enough information to make a Saz’s BBQ and friendly people. They are sensitive to how the recommendation yet; Expressive: let’s get these Valley Cooperative Association group relates and how the work is getting done. people going so we can get this done, we’ll figure Zone Mechanical it out as we go along (followed by a whoop whoop).

20 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com y str G du o n lf I y O r WGA’s Grocery Industry

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It was a fantastic day for the WGA's Grocery Industry Golf Outing at Evergreen Golf Course, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, on June 6, 2018. We had a rain delay but turned it into a networking lunch! Here is a look at all golf teams and course activities. >

Team Prizes are sponsored by:

1st Place Team 2nd Place Team Chad & Gary Moilanen, Arctic Glacier Ice, Kurt Stasler, Aaron Rasner, Nick Schimpf & Bill Remiker, S & R Egg Farms Bill Smits & Doug Witczak, Supervalu

Thank You, Major Sponsors

ICE CREAM

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 21 MORE WINNERS! Thank you Green Sponsors for sponsoring the Hole Challenge. DONATED BY CHALLENGE WINNERS SpartanNash Closest to pin in 2 Gene Mylener, Great Lakes Foods Pan O Gold Closest to barber pole Andrew Buelow, Pritzl’s Trading Post Roundy's / Kroger Longest Drive Rick Roth, Great Lakes Coca-Cola Lipari Foods Longest Drive Alex Okray, Okray Farms H. Brooks & Co. Closest to pin in 2 Jim Meier, Metcalfe's Market Zone Mechanical North Longest Putt Greg Hansen, Hansen's IGA Kemps Closest in 3rd Shot Justin Spiegelhoff, Gooseberries Chicago Baking Longest Drive in Fairway Michelle Harrington, Albrecht's Sentry S & R Egg Farm Closest to pin in 2 Tom Sugent, Richter's Market Old Dutch Foods Closest to pin in 2 Geoff Welch, Shelby Report Crystal Farms Closest to barber pole Jeff Helm, KeHE Prairie Farms Closest to the Pin Tyler Neu, Russ Davis Wholesale Anheuser-Busch Longest Drive (Ladies) Nancy Maurer, Maurer's Markets KeHE Closest to the Pin Mike Spiegelhoff, Gooseberries Supervalu Longest Putt Scott Ostrom, Marketplace Foods Great Lakes Coca-Cola Closet to the Pin Gary Moilanen, Arctic Glacier Ice Grebe's Bakery Closest in 3rd Shot Erik Hausmann, Hausmann-Johnson Ins. Chicago Baking Longest Drive Jim Meier, Metcalfe's Markets

Winners received a WGA golf shirt!

LIPARI’S MONEY IN THE BANK

Working with Lipari Foods is like Money in the Bank! Just ask these five winners who walked away with $100! Pictured l to r: Brandon Scholz, WGA, Dennis Evans, Associated Wholesale Grocers , Bill Smits, retired, Don Symonds, Lipari Foods (presented the money), Mary Stinebrink, Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly, Jeremy Dunn & Tony Brown, Roundy's / Kroger.

Breakfast Sponsors Drink Sponsors

22 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com ZONE MECHANICAL NORTH'S CERTCO'S CHOPPER DROPPER GRAND PRIZE It was a $10 investment to the WGA's Education & All golfers were entered to win the "Green Bay Experience" Scholarship Foundation for a chance to win $500! Almost Grand Prize. Congratulations to Joe Walsh, Supervalu, was 300 golf balls were sold, but only one was the closest! the lucky prize winner of: Congratulations to Georgette Coppersmith, New London Festival Foods on having the lucky golf ball! Thank you to $300 Hyatt Regency gift certificate Georgette for donating $100 Packer Pro Shop gift certificate the prize money back $50 Title Town Brewery gift certificate to the WGA's Education & Scholarship 2 Full Registrations to the 2018 Foundation. WGA’s Innovation Expo Pictured l to r: Pictured l to r: Joe Walsh, Skogen’s Festival, Deb Yerkes, Brandon Scholz, WI Zone Mechanical North and Brandon Scholz, WGA Grocers Assn, Georgette Coppersmith, New London Festival Foods, Dave Kotwitz, WGA's Education & Scholarship Foundation.

PRAIRIE FARM'S JOKER POKER All golfers received two chances to make the best hand. Plus, all jokers were wild! Congratulations to Bill Smits, retired, who won with the best hand of 4 Jacks. Bill won one night at the Hyatt Regency in Green Bay. Pictured l to r: Stacy Wand, Prairie Farms, Bill Smits, and Brandon Scholz, WGA.

Team Sponsor Floral Sponsor Course Beverage Sponsors KRUEGER W H O L E S A L E

Donation Sponsors

ICE CREAM

2017 Summer Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 23 NATALIE'S VALLEY ORCHID JUICE COOPERATIVE COMPANY ASSOCIATION Golfers stayed refreshed with Chip A Ball with Valley a sample of juice with a Bakers! splash of fun & a cigar from Rick Breeden.

WISCONSIN POTATO & VEGETABLE HIT THE GROWERS ASSOCIATION BPI GREEN & Sue Thomas, Alsum, Dana Rady & Jim Zdroik, (not COLOR'S WIN pictured) WPVGA handed out Powered by WI Potatoes t- GOLF Thank you for your shirts to all! BALL BAG Foundation CHALLENGE donations at the betting hole with Jeff & Cindy Tate, Scott Coenen having fun with the BPI's Golf Ball Bag Watertown/Waterloo Piggly Wiggly. Challenge!

RUSS DAVIS WHOLESALE You'll go Crazy Fresh at the Russ Davis Wholesale tee! Jay BAKER TILLY Arndt, Brick Hopkins, Brandon Scholz, Chef Nate & BADGER INVENTORY CHALLENGE Golfers stayed cool with Baker Tilly Water Hazard hosted by Mark Maloney Karen & Heidi greeted you with a challenge and prizes from Megan & Lindsay! Badger Inventory Service!

MILLERCOORS Golfers stayed hydrated with a sample from MillerCoors!

BERNATELLO'S SPIN 'N WIN Matt Selvig, Bernatello’s showed Game advantages won with CHOPPER DROPPER SALES off the Brew Pub pizza truck which Ruth Epping, Richter's Foundation fundraising with Candie Baker, Webster's was just part of the fun at this hole. Markets & Mary Vos with Marketplace and Dave Kotwitz, Foundation Executive a spin of the wheel! Director.

Green Sponsors

KRUEGER W H O L E S A L E

24 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com LONGEST DRIVE WITH FEDERATED INSURANCE MARSHMALLOW Golfers tried to beat Joe and Brock for a chance to win a Robert Rothove, AWG and Jim Szafoni, Doumak offeed Grizzly Cooler! the Giant Roaster marshmallow for this crazy challenge. SAM & MICHELLE KUSSOW Thank you Sam Kussow for volunteering to help at the WGA's golf outing for almost 10 years! HAUSMANN-JOHNSON INSURANCE FOOD DONATIONS Golfers could Chip-It to Win-It at the Hausmann-Johnson tee Breakfast, lunch and dinner was provided by companies who sponsored the WGA's Grocery Industry Golf Outing. A Special Thank for prizes!. You to Dave Spiegelhoff and Chef Michael Lavin and the team at Gooseberries and Courtyard Catering, who developed, prepared and served the menu. DBS GROUP Anheuser-Busch - beverages Great Lakes Coca-Cola - soda and MillerCoors -beverages CHALLENGE Arctic Glacier Ice - ice water Old Dutch Foods - chips Chris Walters, offered lots Berres Brothers Coffee - coffee Grebe’s Bakery - donuts Pan O Gold - buns of prizes at the DBS Group Blue Bunny - ice cream sandwiches J & B Group - sandwich meat, chicken Prairie Farms - juice & milk & corn hole challenge. Crystal Farms - lots of cheese! & pork chops whipping cream Gooseberries - staff, service, Kemps - Sundae Bar Russ Davis Wholesale - vegetables containers & more Lipari Foods -cookies, salads, dips, condiments & more!

DIAGEO’S BIG PUTT Ten Golfers were picked to putt 50' for $1000. Chuck Van, Valley Cooperative Association, just missed, but won him $100 for closest to the pin. Thank you to Toby Spangler, Diageo, for picking the names out of the ticket drum. Successful 50' putt pays $1,000 but we'll have to wait until next year for a successful putt. Good try everyone!! Mike Sprang, Valley Cooperative Jesse Miller, MarketplaceFoods Todd Poss,DBS Group Association Jim Hyland, Roundy's / Kroger Bill Remiker, S & R Egg Farm Tom Lau, Wells Blue Bunny Chuck Van, Valley Cooperative Doug Edwards, Miller & Sons - Kevin Kling, Gooseberries Fresh Association Verona Market Joe Abdella, Wells Blue Bunny

H O L E W S A D L E E Tee Sponsors

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2017 Summer Issue WISCONSIN GROCER 25 2018 Golfers

SOUTH 1A SOUTH 1B SOUTH 1C SOUTH 2A Kyle Kelly, Gooseberries, Geoff Welch, Shelby Kevin Kling, Gooseberries, Pat Fritz & Gene Mylener, Great Lakes Foods, Pat Fox & Pat Barnes, Fox Brothers Publishing, Mike Spiegelhoff, Gooseberries Tim Spiegelhoff, J & B Group David Kureger, Jim Flanagan, & Piggly Wiggly, Mike Campbell, DBS Group, Fresh Food Market, David Spiegelhoff, Tom Wiemer, Gooseberries, Jim Sankey, Designer Greetings Evan Hoffmann, Chicago Baking, Gooseberries Fresh Food, Justin Spiegelhoff, Scott Hauge, J & B Group Todd Poss, DBS Group Gooseberries Fresh Food,

SOUTH 2B SOUTH 3A SOUTH 3B SOUTH 4A Bob Saftig, Poynette Piggly Wiggly, Mike Greg Brown, Baker Tilly, Mark & Mary Andy Allar & Brian Tawyea, Bernatello’s Ruben Rendon, Beechwood Sales & Service, Day & Nathan Perry, Day’s Piggly Wiggly, Stinebrink, Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly, Brew Pub Pizza, Mike Gatz, WI Potato & Bill Goff, Piggly Wiggly, Chris Randerson, Colton Grebe, Grebe’s Bakery, Todd Bernhardt, Baker Tilly Vegetable Growers Assn., David Stinebrink, Anheuser-Busch, Heidi Hudziak, Anheuser- Brandon Grebe, Grebe’s Bakery Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly, Jason Savatsi, Busch, Stinebrink’s Piggly Wiggly

SOUTH 5A SOUTH 5B SOUTH 6A SOUTH 6B Larry Syring, SpartanNash, Marc Tadych, Scot Lucht, Doug Fox, Greg Cross & Rick Pat Quinette, Jerry Kronschnable, Matt Chuck Nicholes, Randy Johnson, Dean Tadych’s Econofoods, Jerry Tadych, Tadych’s Bellrichard, SpartanNash & Dave Scherg, Wall, Brent Schmaltz, Pan O Gold Schultz, Pan O Gold Econofoods, Dave Tadych, Tadych’s Tadych’s Econofoods Econofoods

SOUTH 6C SOUTH 7A SOUTH 7B SOUTH 8A Larry Portenier, Dennis Evans, Mike Daly, Jeremy Dunn, Jim Hyland, Tony Brown, Dave Ryman, Certco Inc., Kelly Demers, E & Bill Harvey & Herb Lyons, Grebe’s Bakery, Tyler Lanier, Associated Wholesale Grocers Roundy’s / Kroger, and Toby Spanger, Diageo, S Fresh Market, Sara Ericson, E & S Fresh Antonio Hernandez, Certco Inc., Justin Garth Alston, Altria Market, Fran Vickman, Indianapolis Fruit, Opplinger, Certco Inc., Guillermo Gonzalez, Doug Edwards, Miller & Sons Certco Inc.

26 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Golfers

SOUTH 8B SOUTH 9A SOUTH 9B NORTH 1A Andrew Buelow & Alyssa Koren, Pritzl’s Jim Davidson & Steve Fish, Crystal Farms, Eddie Robertson, Miller & Sons, Mark Jim Albrecht, Albrecht’s Delafield Sentry, Trading Post, Dave Buss & Kevin Theisen, Rudy Young, Certco Inc., Mark Mead, Certco Carney, Diane Guerrero, Pat O’Toole, Certco Michelle Harrington, Patt Miller, Russ Davis Patrick Cudahy Inc. Inc., Wholesale, Ryan Harrington, Albrecht’s Delafield Sentry

NORTH 1B NORTH 1C NORTH 2A NORTH 2B Tony Franchi, Rick Brown, Don Symonds, Jesse Miller, Scott Ostrom, Marketplace Tom Gast & Bob Fleming, Bob & Kurt’s Sentry, Ted Majdecki & Dick Clark, Retired Leaders Tom Bingham, Bob Palmateer, Lipari Foods Foods, Tom Lau & Joe Abdella, Blue Bunny Tyler Neu & Dave Gaiche, Russ Davis Brian Fridl, BRF CPA & Robert Aherns, Sentry Wholesale on Lisbon,

NORTH 3A NORTH 3B NORTH 4A NORTH 4B Blake & Tyler Daniels, Daniels Foods Sentry, Mike Williamson, Old Dutch Foods, Steve Craig Little, Supervalu, Kristie Maurer, Kurt Stasler, Aaron Rasner, Bill Smits, David Hervey, MillerCoors & Alex Okray, WI Gilliame, Old Dutch Foods, Dave Cook, Maurer’s Markets, Nancy Maurer, Maurer’s Doug Witczak, Supervalu Potato & Vegetable Growers Assn. Supervalu, Jeremey Schouten, Webster’s Markets, Jeff Maurer, Maurer’s Markets, Dave Market, Alan Schouten, Webster’s Markets, Lauersdorf, Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters

NORTH 5A NORTH 5B NORTH 6A NORTH 6B Mike & Georgette Coppersmith, New Henry Mohr & Rick Roth, Jeff Jensen & Joe Walch, Skogen’s Festival Shawn Gherke, Donovan Dettling, Jeff London Festival Foods, Erik & Phil Hausmann, Great Lakes Coca-Cola, Cory Krisher & Kevin Foods, Mike Sprang & Chuck Van, Valley Helm, Warren Haser, KeHE Hausmann-Johnson Insurance Schnell, Skogen’s Festival Foods, Cooperative Association

2017 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 27 2018 Golfers

NORTH 7A NORTH 7B NORTH 8A NORTH 8B Matt Bresser, Professional Supply, Keith Chad & Gary Moilanen, Arctic Glacier Ice, Kevin Metcalfe, Metcalfe’s Markets, Ron Jim Meier, Metcalfe’s Markets, Kevin Maly, Zuehlke & Bob Rusch, Kemps & Eric Bresser, Nick Schimpf & Bill Remiker, S & R Egg Farms Brock, Badger Inventory, Nick Brock, Badger Chicago Baking, Jessica LaPhillip, Metcalfe’s Professional Supply Inventory & Rich Lewandowski, Metcalfe’s Markets, Brian Gibson & Mike Arntz, Old Markets Dutch Foods

NORTH 9A NORTH 9B TEAM PHOTOS Adam Dilley, H. Brooks & Co., Nick & Greg Tom Sugent, Scott Richter, Richter’s Markets, Thank you, Mark Stellpflug, WGA Membership Hansen, Hansen’s IGA, Curt Gotlieb, Scot Haas, Russ Davis Wholesale & Steve Representatve and his wonderful wife, Dianne, H. Brooks & Co. Robers, Richter’s Markets for all the team and outing photos!

FEDERATED INSURANCE ‘Beat B & J’ on the course raised over $900 for the WGA Foundation, which is a record amount! Plus, the Grizzly Cooler was won by Nancy Maurer! BADGER INVENTORY GUESS THE TEES - PAN O GOLD L to R: Brock Badger Inventory Challenge also raised funds for the WGA’s Martinez, Foundation. Thank you for contributing to a great cause! The WGA’s Foundation’s Guess The Tee’s won a Pan O Gold Federated Insurance, Nancy Maurer, Maurer’s Market, & Joe L to R: Brandon Scholz, WGA, Heidi Kraemer, Ron Brock, picnic & grill set. Werner, Federated Insurance. Jake Swanson , Karen Kopczynski & Nick Brock, Badger Inventory. GOLF BALL BAG CHALLENGE Golfers taking the challenge donated a new golf ball. IF your shot was in the circle, your name went into drawing for a new golf bag (donated by Certco Inc.) full of golf balls!! Congratulation to Mike Day, Cambridge HIT THE GREEN & WIN LONGEST DRIVE W/MARSHMALLOW - Piggly Wiggly who won! Successful drives in a circle on the green gave you an entry ASSOCIATED WHOLESALE GROCERS L to R: Dave Ryman, Certco Inc. and Mike Day, Cambridge into a drawing for a Smokey grill & grill accessories. Congratulations to Scot Haas, Russ Davis Wholesale, who Piggly Wiggly. Congratulations to David Stinebrink, Stinebrink’s Piggly won a free night at the Hyatt Regency in Green Bay for his Wiggly on winning the grill! longeste drive with a marshmallow! L to R: Brandon Scholz L to R: Accepting the prize is Jason Savotski, Stinebrink’s WGA, Robert Rothove, AWG and Scot Haas, Russ Davis Piggly Wiggly with Cheryl Lytle, WGA. Wholesale. Save the Date! WGA Grocery Industry Golf Outing June 5, 2019

28 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 29 WGA WGA Business Partners BUSINESS WGA Business Partners support the WGA to interact in WGA events, sponsorships, and PARTNER advertising to strategically promote their products and services to WGA Members. .

NEW Buy. Earn. DBS ROUP Design-Build Solutions Redeem.

WGA BUSINESS PARTNER PROFILES

Acuity Insurance Acuity Insurance has been headquartered in range of service options to meet your needs. Wisconsin since our founding in 1925. TM Our specialized service includes Acuity Retail Specialist Aaron Stamm, who has 30 years of Recently, we expanded our presence to the state by completing a I N SURANCE industry experience with loss prevention, major addition to our Sheboygan headquarters to accommodate our safety, and operational analysis expertise. We growth and serve our increasing customer base. Our headquarters focusedfocused onon grocersgrocers are also a member of more than 20 local and campus is known not only for its distinctive architecture, but also national associations that support retailers, for featuring the World’s Tallest Symbol of Freedom: a 400-foot www.acuity.com and we invest in the retail community by flagpole that flies an American Flag 140 feet wide by 70 feet high supporting education and keeping customers over a memorial to Sheboygan County Veterans. informed on trends that impact the industry. At Acuity, we believe you deserve an insurance company that understands In business since 1925, Acuity has built a reputation not only for great service, what’s important to you. That’s why we specialize in insuring grocers and other but for strength and stability as well. We are rated A+ by both A.M. Best and retailers. In fact, we protect over 12,000 retail and wholesale businesses across Standard & Poor's for financial strength, giving you the assurance that we’ll be 26 states. there when you need us most. We also earn a 96% claims satisfaction rating Acuity provides important, specialized coverages grocers need, including food from our customers. contamination, food spoilage, business interruption, equipment breakdown, Learn more by visiting acuity.com or our Facebook page, or search for us on employee dishonesty, and workers’ compensation. We offer broad, flexible Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.When you’re ready to experience the Acuity policies, including our Retail Bis-Pak (Businessowners) plan. All our products difference, contact your local independent agent and ask for Acuity! are delivered through a network of independent agents, and we offer a wide Anheuser-Busch Anheuser-Busch, the leading U.S brewer, has a rich brewing history that started in 1852. We pride ourselves on using only the finest ingredients to brew and package high-quality beers like Budweiser, Busch Light, and Lime-A-Rita. This pride is seen in our sales and logistics teams, who work closely with our family of 14 Heidi Hudziak, independent wholesalers in Wisconsin to provide exceptional service to retailers. And this pride is embodied by our Grocery Key Account Manager marketing and innovations teams, who connect with consumers through a variety of beerdrinking occasions. in Wisconsin We invite you to learn more about our company, our corporate social responsibility programs, our beers and our [email protected] heritage by visiting our website. On behalf of all the passionate people who are Anheuser-Busch, thank you to all Visit us @ Anheuser-Busch.com who support and enjoy our beer. Like us @ Facebook.com/AnheuserBusch Follow us @ Twitter.com/AnheuserBusch

30 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com Buy. APP Card Earn. Redeem. APP Card understands loyalty. you to achieve the most from • Customized reward your marketing program by 1625 South Congress Avenue programs like point Our company is the descendent of S&H Green providing you with guidance to Delray Beach, FL 33445 programs, sweepstakes, Stamps, America’s original loyalty program dating help execute your program continuities and load-to- back to 1896. More than a century later, we effectively. Stephen Avola, card offers continue to pioneer new ways to help retailers [email protected] • Shopper analytics and build lasting relationships with their customers. Some of the benefits that we provide include: (978) 969-1412 promotion reporting Our unique loyalty platform analyzes shopper accessed through our • Customer engagement purchase data and identifies a retailer’s top www.PrologicRetail.com web-based reporting programs to reach shoppers shoppers and other key segments. We then help portal through POS, online, mobile retailers create personalized targeted offers for and social media channels • Comprehensive shoppers and deliver these benefits, including services including planning, development, • More POS system integrations than any other discounts, printed messages, coupons, loyalty launch, testing, marketing assistance and loyalty providers, including NCR/Retalix, IBM, points and fuel rewards, immediately at the point technical support of sale. Our marketing services team will also help LOC Software and more DBS Group DBS Group is a design-build general Core Services provided by DBS Group are: contractor & construction manager with a • Store Planning Services. core philosophy of providing customers DBS ROUP • Architectural & Engineering Services. with exceptional customer service, while Design-Build Solutions • Pre-Construction Services. creating value and providing a quality work • Construction Services. product through our design-build project 2700 National Drive, Suite 101 The grocery market is a niche market for DBS Group. We delivery. Onalaska, WI 54650 Chris Walters, President understand that grocery stores are more than just a place to We pride ourselves on being a true partner to our pick up milk and eggs, rather they are the central hub of [email protected] | www.DBSG.com customers, and we are relentless in our efforts to communities and neighborhoods. Combined, our team contribute to their current and future success. Our team members have decades of experience in the planning, design consists of seasoned veterans in the design and construction industry, and we and construction of new ground-up grocery stores, as well as expansions and are committed to being a valued partner to our customers, business partners, renovations of existing grocery stores. We proudly serve retailers, wholesalers vendors and community. and developers on grocery projects across the upper Midwest. KeHE Distributors KeHE Distributors is one of the oldest We were founded in 1953 and mentally-friendly distribution and most respected natural and converted into an employee- network and advanced organic, specialty, and fresh food owned company in 2001, we are performance metrics that a state-of-the-art organization of assure goodness follows to our distributor in the industry. 5,500 employee-owners and a 800.995.5343 vendor partners and retail KeHE Distributors is one of the oldest and most vast 15 centers within our 1245 E. Diehl Rd. Suite 200 grocers. distribution network across the Naperville, IL 60563 respected natural and organic, specialty, and fresh We invite you to learn more U.S. and Canada. food distributor in the industry. [email protected] about the KeHE difference We’re natural. We’re authentic. And we’re passionate Where we go, we spread the including our KeHE culture by about high quality, wholesome foods produced in word on healthy eating, visiting our website. Thank sustainable ways delivered to a hungry world. sustainable living, and responsible business with you for helping us SERVE to make lives better™! integrity. And we back it up with a rapid, environ- Kemps For over 100 years, Kemps produce the fresh, bring the goodness home to share with their has nourished families by wholesome dairy milk. families. Each time you buy Kemps, good comes providing delicious, Inspired by the goodness of back around to local family farms, making them wholesome dairy products the family farmers, Kemps stronger and investing in their future. then passionately transforms across the local Kemps farm family ownership means that the milk into the trusted everything we do is part of this bigger circle of communities we serve. products like fresh milk, goodness with special care that goes from the farm, creamy ice cream, delicious At Kemps, we believe in a Circle to the cows, to your home and back to the family yogurt, sour cream and of Good that begins at our core, 1270 Energy Lane | St. Paul, MN 55108 farm again. We invite you to learn more about our cottage cheese, which grocery the family farm. With a legacy of www.Kemps.com company’s purpose, mission and values by visiting stores proudly carry. hard work and passion going our website. On behalf of the Kemps family of back several generations, our farm Our consumers complete the Circle of Good each employees, thank you to all who support Kemps family owners carefully tend to their cows to time they reach for Kemps at their local grocer, and and local dairy farmers everywhere.

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 31 WGA BUSINESS PARTNER PROFILES MillerCoors Through its diverse collection of storied and Blue Moon Belgian White Netherlands’ Grolsch. breweries, MillerCoors brings American from modern craft pioneer Blue David Hervey, Chain Account MillerCoors also offers pioneering new brands such as Moon Brewing Company, Executive, Wisconsin Supermarkets beer drinkers an unmatched selection of which celebrates its 20th the Redd’s Apple and Redd’s the highest quality beers steeped in Anniversary this year. 3939 West Highland Blvd. Wicked Apple franchises and Milwaukee, WI 53208 Smith & Forge Hard Cider. centuries of brewing heritage. Tenth and Blake also operates MillerCoors seeks to create Miller Brewing Company and Coors Brewing Crispin Cider Company, an [email protected] America’s best beer company artisanal maker of pear and Company offer domestic favorites such as Coors MillerCoors.com through an uncompromising apple ciders using fresh-pressed Light, Miller Lite, Miller High Life and Coors facebook.com/MillerCoors promise of quality, a keen American juice, and imports Banquet. Tenth and Blake Beer Company, our craft focus on innovation and a world-renowned beers such as Twitter: @MillerCoors deep commitment to and import division, offers beers such as Italy’s Peroni Nastro Azzurro, sustainability. MillerCoors is a Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy from sixth- the Czech Republic’s Pilsner Urquell and the MolsonCoors Company. generation Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company Prairie Farms We are Prairie Farms, and we farms to find no less too, shop at. Our communities are important to are proud to comprise more than two or three us, with many of us serving on local school, church than 600 farm families generations pitching or municipality boards and committees. And in, whether it’s because this is our home too, we care deeply about throughout the Midwest. actively milking the land and water resources, and are dedicated to Since 1938, we have been cows, running preserving our natural resources to our best extent. producing high quality 3510 Central Ave., Dubuque, IA 52001-9477 equipment such as products and providing (800) 397-9477 | www.PrairieFarms.com tractors and feed- We Thank You fresh, safe and nutritious mixers, caring for We know you have many options in the grocery the new calves born store and you are seeking the best, affordable milk to you and your family. on the farm or keeping the crew fed with options for your family. We, the dairy farmers of homemade meals. Prairie Farms, would like to thank you for We are Families choosing us, and want to ensure you we are Many of us are proud to have multi-generation We are Communities committed to producing some of the healthiest and dairy farms. This means our farms were established We are the farmers in your neighborhood, safest milk in the world. and maintained by our parents, grandparents, even supplying the fresh milk to grocery stores that we, great grandparents. Often times, you can visit our Join us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

32 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com WGA BUSINESS PARTNER PROFILES Russ Davis Wholesale

Russ Davis Wholesale, a fruit and launch of Crazy Fresh interactive website geared Produce which is located in towards children 10 and vegetable wholesaler out of Eagan, MN. Most recently, under to promote a Minnesota, started out at Russ RDW moved its Twin Cities healthy eating lifestyle. Davis’ trucking company back in operation to Hammond, WI, Our goal is to turn the making this their third produce aisle into the 1955. distribution center in new snack food aisle by Wisconsin. providing enjoyable ways Russ would take orders from customers while to eat healthy while making deliveries during his route. Fast forward 60 Russ Davis Wholesale also has encouraging kids to have years, and RDW has turned into a 100% a division in Wood Lake, MN, fun with their food and employee-owned business that continues Russ’ which consists of two entities: 1200 Commerce Street, learn how important legacy by selling and distributing fresh fruits and Black Jack Express, a trucking Merrill, WI 54452 good nutrition is. We vegetables. firm, and Palms to Plains, a 2967 Airport Road, believe that children freight brokering company. In Today, RDW has five distribution centers located LaCrosse, WI 54606 should be excited about 2005, RDW acquired a diesel in Wisconsin, Minnesota and North Dakota. The having fruits and repair operation in Wadena, 1940 Ridgeway Street, warehouse in Wadena, MN, is the original vegetables in their MN, to service a fleet that has Hammond, WI 54015 distribution center and houses the corporate everyday diets, which is grown to well over 100 tractors, accounting offices. Jamestown, ND, was added in PH: (800) 214-4981 why we created a website numerous dock trucks and a 1996 and services the majority of North and South full of exciting games, large assortment of vans and www.russdaviswholesale.com Dakota. RDW then acquired North Country deliciously fun recipes, automobiles. www.crazyfreshproduce.com Produce in 2002 and relocated from St. Paul to a www.crazyfreshkids.com printable coloring sheets, larger distribution center in Inver Grove Heights. Crazy Fresh, with their lines of creative contests and 2006 found RDW adding a fourth distribution fruits, veggies, dips, salsas, more! Kids who sign up center in Merrill, WI, in order to better service salads and many more, is looking to turn the will receive a FREE Crazy Fresh Kids t-shirt and a partners in eastern Wisconsin and the U.P of produce aisle into the new snack food aisle by cool gift for their birthdays! Michigan. LaCrosse Produce was acquired by proving convenient foods can be fresh, wholesome Russ Davis Wholesale and Crazy Fresh Produce RDW a year later with a new facility built and full of flavor. Crazy Fresh is made to order, in are proud to partner with retail and food service conveniently off of I-90 near the Minnesota and single units… now that’s Crazy Fresh! customers to deliver fresh produce and specialty Wisconsin border. Crazy Fresh Kids Club was launched in products that keep customers coming back for In 2010, RDW was excited to announce the September of 2016. The Kids Club offers an more!

Shullsburg Creamery

Exceptional. Flavorful. Remarkable. passion for cheese makers with a talent for knowing what If you love cheese, you want to taste making and makes great tasting cheese. Those are cheese-eating that the foundations of Shullsburg Cheese. Shullsburg Creamery II, LLC. it. And, you want that same started the Those are the reasons why you won't satisfying taste experience time company way 208 W. Water Street, P.O.Box 398 find another cheese out there that Shullsburg, Wisconsin 53586 after time. That's consistency. back when. matches our quality, and more Hand-selected Phone: 800-533-9594 importantly, our taste. We pride We keep that in mind with every Cheddar, Swiss quality Fax: 608-965-3778 ourselves in cheese that cheese-lovers and Colby Jack that bears the Shullsburg name. ingredients. love, because we're cheese-lovers www.ShullsburgCreamery.com One Taste, and You'll Get It. Time-tested ourselves. Shullsburg Cheese is made with the same enduring recipes. Cheese

Thank You, to the WGA Business Partners!

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 33 34 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com Kroger ad, The Milwaukee Journal | June 13, 1963 A Historical Tour Kroger in Wisconsin

When supermarket in the basement of Kroger Hill’s Department Store on Mitchell Steet, the South Side’s purchased main shopping district in 1947. Roundy’s Both Krambo and Kroger opened in 2015, many supermarkets in the then-new, open-air Bay Shore Shopping thought it was Kroger’s Center in 1954. Kroger embarked first entry into our state. on another national expansion The truth is that Kroger campaign and saw Krambo’s growing presence in the post-war has a long history in Milwaukee market as a tempting Wisconsin dating back apple to add to its corporate to 1928. bushel. Krambo was third in market share behind front runner The Milwaukee Public Library Images and information courtesy of the Milwaukee Public Library A&P, then the largest national provided a historical chronology grocery chain, but ahead of recently that is worth sharing. According to Local History another growing local grocery chain, Kohl’s, which was Librarian Dan, the Cincinnati-based chain first entered in sixth place. Wisconsin in 1928 and Milwaukee in 1933. Despite having Sixty years ago, Kroger bought Krambo, but kept its a dozen stores, it couldn’t shake pre-war Milwaukeeans’ name. Sounds familiar? Kroger products appeared on loyalty to their corner mom-and-pop corner grocer. It barely Krambo shelves. Krambo’s logo was redesigned in 1961 registered a measly one percent market share in the 1936 to mirror the Kroger logo. They dropped the Krambo edition of the annual Consumer Analysis published by The name in 1962. Under the Kroger banner, its market Milwaukee Journal. Their first foray into the Milwaukee share peaked at third in 1963 behind a surging Kohl’s market petered out in 1939. soon to overtake A&P as the 800-pound gorilla on “Kroger entered the Madison market in the late 1920s when Milwaukee’s grocery scene the following year. it bought Universal Stores,” said Dave Aldrich, a Little While Kroger stores were not as dingy as those of other Rock, Ark., marketing executive who runs the Pleasant faltering national chains, A&P and National, local chains Family Shopping Facebook page and website dedicated to Kohl’s and Sentry, which developed reputations for long-gone retailers. A building on West Main Street in having good meat and produce departments, battered Madison still bears the old “Kroger Baking Company” Kroger into leaving Milwaukee for a second time in name. The building was constructed for the Gould, Wells 1971. & Blackburn wholesale grocery outlet in 1915. The business was subsequently absorbed into the Universal Grocery Kroger sold eight of its failing Wisconsin stores to Company and eventually the Kroger Grocery & Baking Chicago-based Jewel Companies Inc. in 1971 as Jewel Company of Ohio. made its first of two unsuccessful forays into the Milwaukee market. Jewel also planned to buy or lease Appleton-based Krambo opened its first Milwaukee-area two other Kroger stores in Wisconsin.

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 35 MEMBER EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS See more events and happenings each week in the President’s Letter, the weekly WGA e-newsletter. Sign up at wisconsingrocers.com.

Fox Bros. Beer for raising a whopping $29,739 at their location for 2017 The Holiday Red Kettle Campaign, which makes them the number one collection site Milwaukee’s MobCraft Beer and Fox Brothers in Waukesha County! Piggly Wiggly have teamed up to create Citrus Shandy, a wheat ale with a juicy combination of grapefruit, orange, lemon and lime, brewed National Honor with honey malt for a crisp, refreshing brew. In Kwik Trip recently received a national award from the February, Fox Bros. invited customers to Council of State Administrators of Vocational submit beer ideas and put the vote up to Rehabilitation (CSAVR) for its strong commitment to customers to decide which beer to brew. After employing job seekers with disabilities and presented hundreds of votes, Citrus Shandy, submitted by Kwik Trip with the Business Partner of the Year Chrissy Jacobson of Slinger, won. Award. The honor highlights Kwik Trip’s Retail “This is the first shandy we have created and it’s a blast to see the Helper program, which began in Wisconsin in 2013 and placed over 200 community get behind our concept of turning ideas into beer,” said Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) consumers in employment. Henry Schwartz, president of MobCraft Beer, in a statement. The shandy Of the DVR consumers placed, nearly 75% successfully gained is available at all Fox Bros. Piggly Wiggly locations and the MobCraft permanent employment status with Kwik Trip. “I would like to Beer taproom in Milwaukee. “This has been a fun process with MobCraft congratulate Kwik Trip for being recognized for its commitment to hiring and our customers,” said Fox Bros. President Pat Fox. individuals with disabilities,” Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Allen said. “Ever since DWD staff and Kwik Trip began working collaboratively in 2013 to fill the company’s labor market Rising Stars needs with qualified and energetic talent, the Retail Helper program has Progressive Grocer has named the Rising expanded and now operates in three states. Stars: Top Women in Grocery 2018. The share of female CEOs of Fortune 500 Congratulations Wisconsin Lift Truck x8! companies topped 5% for the first time during quarter one of 2017, with 27 WGA Allied Member, Wisconsin women heading major firms. The grocery Lift Truck, is honored to have industry is no exception, and from the store floor to c-suite, women are received the reputable MVP (Most leading the charge to keep the industry fresh, relevant and truly Valuable Partner) Award for 2018! consumer-centric. This is the company's eighth consecutive year being selected for MVP status by the Material Handling Equipment Association (MHEDA), one To recognize their efforts, Progressive Grocer has inducted 362 of them of the industry's highest regarded trade associations. As a 2018 MVP, into its 2018 Top Women in Grocery class. Newest members in the Wisconsin Lift Truck has successfully demonstrated a commitment to Rising Stars category (with ties to Wisconsin): Hannah Walker, Senior business excellence, professionalism and good stewardship. In order to Director, Technology & Nutrition Policy, FMI; Mary Beth Hart, qualify for the annual MVP Award, companies are required to provide Director, State Government Relations, Hy-Vee Inc.; Melissa Van Gheem, evidence of their dedication to their partners in business. In addition, they Human Resources Director, Skogen’s Festival Foods; Tracy Cleaves, Front must meet the following criteria: Industry Advocacy, Customer Service & End Operations Senior Director, Skogen’s Festival Foods; Francine Safety Practices, Business Networking, Continuing Education, Business Wilder, Floral Manager, The Kroger Co./Roundy’s Wisconsin. Best Practices. "We're proud to have earned our eighth consecutive MVP status award from MHEDA. Attaining the MHEDA MVP award makes a Grocery Exhibit statement to our employees, our suppliers and our customers," said Jerry The Festival Foods Fresh Market Exhibit— Weidmann, President of Wolter Group LLC. "It confirms our an interactive educational marketplace— commitment to high standards and continuous improvement to lead the recently opened at Above & Beyond industry." Children’s Museum in Sheboygan. The open-air marketplace concept harkens back to the way people shopped for groceries in earlier times and the importance of CONGRATS TOM! supporting and interacting with local, sustainable food systems. Each of Longtime Supporter Longtime WGA supporter the market stands displays local food and products including dairy, meats, and friend, Tom Branta, recently retired from fruits, vegetables, and honey and flowers. The new interactive exhibit has SUPERVALU and is on his way to enjoying what been seamlessly incorporated into the historic Port of Sheboygan located we all hope is a long, happy, and healthy on the third floor of the museum which includes an old-world classroom, retirement, which is much deserved! ship, lighthouse and vintage fire truck. “We are thrilled to partner with Whether it was at the WGA golf outing, or the Above & Beyond Children’s Museum in bringing this exhibit to nominating winners for our awards, Tom has Sheboygan-area families,” said Mark Skogen, President and CEO of always been a big fan and supporter of the WGA Festival Foods. “As a grocer who started in a small town, we recognize the throughout his career. Taking Tom’s place as Market Development important history this exhibit teaches our youth - that buying fresh and Manager is Craig Little. Craig started in February and has had the local products was important long ago, and it is still important today.” opportunity to meet quite a few people including many Green Bay supplied retailers this past week. We look forward to working with Top of the List! Craig in the future! The WGA joins with everyone at SUPERVALU, The Salvation Army presented Albrecht’s in thanking Tom for his great service and contributions to the Sentry in Delafield with a Certificate of company and wishing him all the best. Appreciation. The store is being recognized

36 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com Gracie’s Doggie Delights Blazing the Trail At age 18, thousands of customers across the United States. Jeff and Cindy Tate, owners of Piggly Gracie Jagler Wiggly in Watertown & Waterloo, were started an all- Gracie’s first retail customers. Gracie’s products sell very well in the Tate’s stores, in fact, Jeff natural dog jokes that Gracie’s is the most profitable 1.5 feet they have in the store. For Jeff & Cindy, treat company. though, it’s not just about the bottom line-- A huge they sell Gracie’s products because they want Gracie to succeed and they like promoting local accomplishment products. And, as Jeff says, “The dog treats are for any 18-year- really good, it’s the only treats our dog will eat.” old, but an even bigger Gracie’s Doggie Delights are freeze-dried by the local Watertown butcher at Glenn’s Market. achievement for someone The freeze dried meats are nutritionally good for dogs and maintain high levels of nutrients with Down Syndrome. and vitamins, and consumer-demand for freeze- Gracie’s a role model for women, dried food and treats is also increasing. In 2018, natural pet food sales peaked at $8.2 young entrepreneurs and anyone with billion and it is has been growing at an average a disability. of 12 percent annually for the past six years. Gracie’s has seen the benefit of community Like other budding relationships and featuring hometown products business owners, Gracie and is now reaching into another popular takes care of all aspects segment—coffee. Teaming up with Watertown of her business serving business and WGA member, Berres Brothers as the COO, Chief Coffee, Gracie’s has been offering “Gracie’s Get Scooper, Packer, and Up and Go Coffee” in ground 1.5 oz bags. Marketing officer of Custom packaging sales are new for Berres Gracie’s Doggie Brothers and available to retailers, and Delights. Credit should according to owner Pete Berres, “It was an be given as well to her immediate hit for Gracie’s! She has experienced family that helps out in great success with the private label coffee many ways including packages.” Gracie’s is also working on her own encouragement. Her dad, John Jagler, is a candle signature scent made by a local Republican State Representative from Watertown company. and her mom, Heidi, is a registered nurse. In addition to her parents, Gracie has a strong Grace’s dad has said his dream would be to support network from her brother John, whom grow the company enough to hire people with she calls “Bubba” and is the namesake for “Bubba’s disabilities. This is something that grocers Booster Bits;” her sister Sarah and her three rescue across Wisconsin already do and do well. dogs—Zoe, Frodo and Liam. Wisconsin grocers actively recruit and hire people with disabilities because they recognize Dad, John Jagler, recently contributed an article to the value that these qualified employees bring “The Mighty”--an online community for people to their businesses. The Wisconsin Division of with health challenges and disabilities--and wrote: Vocational Rehabilitation, a division of the “My daughter’s birthday is March 21. That’s Department of Workforce Development, helps World Down Syndrome Day. Grace has Down to connect jobseekers with disabilities to syndrome and as the world marks the day with employers. For more information on DVR, visit thousands of people pledging to ‘Spread the word their website at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr. to end the word,’ the only R-word she knows is ‘retail.’” As for Gracie, she’s continuing to blaze her own trail and for the hopefully many that follow her. And Grace is an expert at retail. She personally For more information on Gracie and Gracie’s stocks the shelves at 50 retail locations—including Doggie Delights, please visit graciesdog- grocery stores, dog groomers, vets and other local giedelights.com or find her and her 10,000 retailers. In addition, Gracie’s ships products to friends on Facebook.

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 37 MEMBER EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Proud Parade Marshals Business Partner of the Year Prominent members of the Markesan Festival Foods announced that community for the past 35 years, Ted and Sally MillerCoors is its 2017 Business Robl led June Dairy Days Parade in Markesan. Partner of the Year. Festival Foods The co-owners and operators of Ted’s Piggly annually recognizes a business Wiggly were selected as the parade’s Marshals by partner that has positively the Markesan Area Chamber of Commerce. impacted its ability to provide Both Ted and Sally have been involved in outstanding customer service over numerous organizations such as the Chamber of the past year. Like Festival Foods, Commerce, the Markesan Lions Club, the MillerCoors believes in giving Markesan State Bank Board of Directors, back to the communities it serves. American Legion, Rosary Ladies and the Every year, the two organizations team up to support great causes Markesan Historical Society, with many such such as the Boys and Girls Club, the United Way and the Grocers involvements continuing to this day. on the Green Golf Outing, which benefits the Einstein Project. Ted and Sally believe in giving back to the community that has supported them On peak holidays, store visits increase to twice a day to keep up for so many years. “The Markesan community has been very good to us and stock levels. MillerCoors also funds Festival Foods’ craft beer mix- we’re proud to be a part of the Markesan community,” said Ted during a recent and-match program by providing carriers and point-of-sale interview. “For us it was never about putting the green stuff in our pockets, it materials. For over 10 years, MillerCoors has helped Festival Foods was about making Markesan a wonderful community, and it’s great.” provide shoppers with opportunities to win multiple contests, such as Festival Foods’ Packers Ticket Back program. In 2017, the Ted and Sally bought their store in October of 1983 as a United Foods store, partnership expanded to include a social media campaign with which was later bought out by Roundy’s. The store later became a Fairway Foods, high-quality promotional videos and a season-long Packers ticket which closed and led to Piggly Wiggly contacting Ted and Sally and Ted’s Piggly giveaway that sent dozens of fans to see the green and gold at Wiggly official opening around the year 2000. “The June Dairy Days Parade is Lambeau Field. “MillerCoors and its representatives really deserve something we’ve always really enjoyed being a part of, and to be the parade this recognition,” said Mark Skogen, Festival Foods president and marshals? That’s just, that’s something special.” CEO.

38 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com MEMBER EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Celebrating 40 Years! time salesman. Over 40 years, Professional Popcorn & Coffee Supply has outgrown two locations and Professional Supply Berres Brothers currently occupies a 35,000 sq ft building and began in 1978 when Coffee Roasters is warehouse. Their 30 employees take pride in President, Herb now distributing managing nationwide janitorial and Binkowsky, purchased locally grown maintenance supply distribution across the the supply division of a popcorn produced by Tietz Family Farm, a United States, included both Alaska and Hawaii. cleaning company his seventh-generation family farm in Watertown, They take pride in their company, built from the older brother started. WI. Loyal customers can receive their popcorn ground up, and work to pass their dedication on Herb began working for his brother after leaving at the Dane County Farmers Market on the through excellence in customer service and the Army in 1075 and purchased the business Capitol Square in Madison, but now you can quality products. Their goal is to supply you from his brother shortly thereafter. Six years in find it in YOUR store. 2lbs of premium with the tools needed to operated your the business, Professional Supply added two popcorn comes in: white hulless, yellow hulless, businesses successfully, and they look forward to part-time employees; and in 1987, Herb hired ruby red, calico and shaman blue. present-day Vice President, Mike Fick, as a full- continuing their legacy for years to come! Trig’s to open Full-Service Grocery Store in Tomahawk T.A. Solberg Company, Inc. has purchased Nelson’s County Market on North 4th Street, Tomahawk. The store will transitioned to Trig’s on June 24th. T.A. Solberg Company’s owner and CEO, Trig Solberg said, “We are looking forward to serving the Tomahawk area. This is a particularly good fit for us because our two locally-owned companies share a history of serving the Northwoods through a deep commitment to the communities we are in.” T.A. Solberg Company has enjoyed being part of the central and northern Wisconsin communities for 47 years. They hope to maintain the current base of employees and will remain open 24 hours a day to serve its customers. Sale prices at Trig’s typically run Wednesday through Tuesday. Weekly ads will be delivered in local newspapers and are available at trigs.com. “We strive to be an integral part of the communities we are in. We are passionate about the people we work with and the people we serve. The focus of our team is guest experience: bringing the freshest, quality foods and innovative services to our guests at competitive prices,” said Solberg. Trig’s is happy to partner with local non-profit organizations to help them with their fundraising efforts. All Trig’s locations participate in Scrip, offering a 3% discount to organizations. Leaders can stop by the service desk to learn more about how to earn money for their organization at Trig’s.

$43K to Make-A-Wish Larry’s StoneRidge Piggly Wiggly in Kaukauna and Little Chute continued their long tradition of their Pig-To-Pig Walk. Duane Detjens, CEO of Larry’s StoneRidge Piggly Wiggly, presented the donation to Make-A-Wish. The walk has raised $460,000 over the 20-year history.

2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 39 MEMBER EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Changing Hands years. The evaluation for the Top Workplaces has continued to demonstrate leadership related program is based upon feedback from the to energy efficiency,” said Dale Lythjohan, Chris Olsen, employees of each company. general manager of Cedarburg Light & Water. owner of Olsen’s “We’re happy to participate with them and Piggly Wiggly, recently sold his store in the Focus on Energy in energy efficiency programs.’ Howard-Suamico area to Duane Detjens. Maloney Wins! Detjens owns Piggly Wiggly’s in De Pere, One of our very own WGA Kaukauna, Little Chute and Wautoma. On June members was part of We Have A Winner!!! 17 the Howard location changed its name to somewhat historic spring Judith StoneRidge Piggly Wiggly. election in the Village of Moore, Olsen has been in the grocery business for the Weston. Floral Manager past 30 years. His father, Chuck, who retired Mark Maloney, Branch from Fox four years ago, owned the Olsen Foods that Manager at Russ Davis Bros used to be on Velp Avenue, as well as a location Wholesale in Merrill, was Piggly in De Pere. Olsen started working at the stores one of nine candidates (the Wiggly, recently at the age of 15 and since his father’s retirement, most on record) vying for three open seats on attended the Wisconsin Olsen and his wife, Tami, who runs the business the Village Board and after the February and Upper Michigan Florists Association with him, have been contemplating selling. primary, the ballot was narrowed from nine to convention. Judith won two awards for her six, with Maloney being one of them. Fast “When you lose your partner, it becomes a little floral designs in the WUMFA competition. She forward to election night, where Maloney beat more difficult when you’re the sole owner,” took first place in the Professional Division the incumbent to win a seat on the Weston Olsen said. “I have four kids at home and we which required a floral design using a Village Board. decided for my family’s sake to sell and step away sustainable structure; Judith used an old CD from the everyday running of the business and Maloney is no stranger to local politics and the holder to create her winning entry. She also simplify a little bit.” Village Board after serving three terms from received second place for her floral creation in Olsen said he will miss the people the most. 2006 to 2012, along with one term on the the Re-use and Re-purpose category. “The hard part is you build relationships over a Weston Town Board from 1989 to 1991. For Congratulations! 30-year span,” he said. “I’ve formed the past four years, he has also been a member of the Everest Metro Police Commission. relationships with the customers, the people I’ve Grand Opening!!! worked with. That part I’m going to miss Congrats, Mark! greatly. You know these people, you know a Great Lakes Fresh little about their lives, it’s difficult to walk away We Have Market opened their from that aspect.” Chuck originally bought two A doors this spring in stores in 1986. The Howard location moved to Spencer, with Store where it is now on Lineville Road in 2002. The Focused Director Andy father and son were partners in the grocery Winner!! Cveykus, along with business for the better part of 18 years. A longtime his wife Tonja, Cedarburg running the location. Best of the Best business was honored when Olsen’s Piggly “We are eager for Wiggly received an Energy Efficiency Excellence our guests to Award from Focus on Energy. The grocery store experience the Great completed two major energy-saving projects in Lakes Fresh Market ALDI 2017. The first was adding doors to cases in Grocery Store some refrigerated sections of the store, which Several concept to include an conserves energy and increases customer WGA members have received accolades from outstanding Produce comfort by reducing the amount of cold air the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and identified as Department, Bakery, and Full-Service Deli, escaping the cases. among the areas top employers-Kwik Trip, both offering fresh made products daily,” said Aldi’s, Sendik’s Food Markets, Frank’s Piggly In another move that saves energy and improves Cveykus. “Great Lakes Fresh Market will also Wiggly and Fox Brothers Piggly Wiggly. customer experience, Olsen’s Piggly Wiggly provide our guests with an exceptional Meat installed LED lights throughout the store last Department featuring a Signature Meat Market Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has provided the year. “First and foremost, the financial viability that will include marinated, stuffed, and recognition of for the Top Workplaces in of the payout was a no brainer at this time. seasoned beef, as well as pork, poultry, and Southeastern Wisconsin for nine years with Good stewardship of the environment is seafood. This idea allows for a fresh approach to many of these companies in the rankings for important, as well,” said store owner Ryan the store's meat selection.” Great Lakes Fresh many of those years. Olsen. “And from a comfort level, the climate Market will also introduce additional amenities. There are 30 companies ranked in the Large control we have now, not having open refrigerated These services will include a coffee bar, floral, Employer Category including Kwik Trip at the cases, we have much better climate control.” and a limited hardware selection, along with an top spot with 2,253 employees; Aldi at #8 with expanded beer, wine, and liquor department. The two 2017 upgrades will help Olsen’s Piggly 566 employees; Fox Brothers Piggly Wiggly at Andy and Tonja look forward to serving the Wiggly save more than $17,000 a year in #10 with 825 employees and Sendik’s at #22 Spencer Community and surrounding areas and reduced energy costs. The projects also eared with 2,050 employees. Frank’s Piggly Wiggly in they look forward to a long-term relationship the business incentives of more than $9,000 Elkhorn, with 250 employees, made the list in with their guests. from Focus on Energy. “Bottom line, Olsen’s the Midsize businesses category for the past four

40 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com MEMBER EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Gate-Worthy sponsorships do not open up often and are a key revenue generator for the team. "Kwik Rewards will provide Packers fans with even greater in-store Green Bay Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy savings along with opportunities to win tickets, merchandise, gift cards recently announced that Kwik Trip has replaced Verizon and Packers game-day experiences throughout the year," said Mark as a gate sponsor at Lambeau Field. Kwik Trip's Cafe Meisner, Kwik Trip director of marketing and advertising. The company's Karuba coffee and its hot chocolate will also be sold replacement of Verizon on the Lambeau Field entrances, now makes all throughout the stadium and the company's Kwik gate sponsors Wisconsin companies. "The Wisconsin-based companies Rewards program will include Green Bay Packers- aspect is amazing. We're really pleased to be able to partner with a related deals. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Murphy said gate company like Kwik Trip," Murphy said. PROFESSIONAL CARDS

Heidi Bruning CRYSTAL FARMS KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Distributor of fine refrigerated products to supermarkets in over 40 states, including: • Crystal Farms Cheese • Better ‘n Eggs • Simply Potatoes • All Whites • David’s Deli Bagels CELL 312-623-0792 Contact [email protected] [email protected] (920) 648-3466

H O L E W S A D L 2700 National Drive, Suite 101 E E Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc.

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2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 41 PROFESSIONAL CARDS

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Brick Hopkins BRANCH MANAGER, LA CROSSE PRODUCE DIVISION 1270 Energy Lane [email protected] 800-214-4981 DIRECT (715) 379-5455 St. Paul, MN 55108 2967 Airport Road, La Crosse, WI 54603 www.russdaviswholesale.com www.Kemps.com Merrill, WI • Wadena, MN • Jamestown, ND • St. Paul, MN • LaCrosse, WI

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Your association-endorsed insurance provider for workers compensation. Mike Mules Lipari Foods Inc. We also offer GRO-SURE, an outstanding 26661 Bunert Road property/casualty program available specifically for Warren, MI 48089 food retailers. So whether you own a neighborhood convenience store or are part of a supermarket chain, 414.234.9867 WGA it’s worth checking out what Society has to offer! [email protected] ENDORSED VENDOR 150 Camelot Drive, PO Box 1029, Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1029 www.LipariFoods.com 888-5-SOCIETY (888-576-2438) societyinsurance.com

David Hervey Chain Account Manager – Wisconsin 3939 W. Highland Blvd., Building 35, Milwaukee, WI 53201 St. Cloud Division Office 414.931.4952 C: 414.732.4815 F: 414.342.1437 360 Hoffman Court • St. Cloud, Minnesota 56303 [email protected] 320•251•3961

Bakers of Country Hearth and Village Hearth Breads and Buns

PAN-O-GOLD Baking Co. 1000 Wilburn Road • Sun Prairie WI 53590 • (608)834-1816 www.countryhearthbreads.com [email protected]

Master Service Technicians on call 24 hours/7days a week

3510 Central Ave. Dubuque, IA 52001-9477 Zone Mechanical North (800) 397-9477 We Focus On 9645 S 54th Avenue, Suite N Your Success Franklin, WI 53132-9179 www.PrairieFarms.com ZoneMechanical.com (262) 347-4180

42 WISCONSIN GROCER www.wisconsingrocers.com 2018 Summer WISCONSIN GROCER 43