The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) has proclaimed February 22 Supermarket Employee Day. This is a time to acknowledge food industry employees at every level for the essential work they do. SPAR recognises that our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we take delight in calling out several heroes in our international network today.

Recognising excellence

Four individuals were singled out by the SPAR organisations and that includes Penelope Mugwena Malgas who works in a SPAR Supermarket in South Africa’s Gauteng province. Penelope’s commitment has driven the home meal replacement department to become a destination department for customers. The sales growth of this department of 50% during 2022 reflects this commitment and passion for retail.

SPAR Kosovo recognised Kimete Mehmedi for her outstanding work leading up to her promotion as assistant store manager. She is not only a role model for the team but also for other retailers, clearly communicating goals and priorities to the team. Above all, providing excellent service to customers drives Kimete Mehmedi.

SPAR South Africa’s Gauteng region called out Willemiena Kyzer, a member of the team of the SUPERSPAR Supermarket in Standerton since 1985. Not only does Willemiena embody the spirit of SPAR in all she does, including giving excellence in customer service, but she also has a heart for the local community.

Independent SPAR retailers are renowned for their commitment to local communities. SPAR UK’s regional organisation AF Blakemore called out Mark Bostock and his team for the incredible 1,155 hours they spent volunteering in local communities this year. The team has also raised £21,676 for the chosen charity partner, NSPCC.

More details about these supermarket heroes can be read on the SPAR Facebook page.

International retail network

The resilience and sense of solidarity and collaboration which lie at the heart of the SPAR network of independent wholesalers and retailers are strong. In over 13,600 stores, SPAR retail colleagues play a pivotal role in their communities, for which we thank them.