FMI - OMEGA - West Virginia Oil Marketers & Grocers Association

From the cashiers and stockers to the store managers and executives, the drivers and food processors and pharmacist and nutritionists, to the data analysts, delivery experts and farmers, our industry is filled with true Food Industry Heroes who have done so much more than just keep people fed this year. Every hero needs a sidekick—someone who swoops in to provide support, encouragement, additional resources, and a helping hand. As additional demands have been placed on the food industry in 2020, FMI has been proud to support the Food Industry Heroes in many ways.

Just because something is difficult does not excuse us from tackling it. In fact, FMI believes the tougher the topic is, the deeper the need to address it. Consequently, FMI is partnering with the Center for Food Integrity (CFI) in an initiative to facilitate food industry conversations around the issues of Racial Justice, Inclusion and Diversity.

As noted in The Food Retailing Industry Speaks 2020 (Speaks) report, “the greatest health crisis in 100 years has scrambled just about every facet of food retail, not to mention society in general.” As a result, one guiding imperative resonates across the entire food industry: Priority #1 is to keep employees and customers safe and healthy. Every retailer talks about their greatest concern being the health and well-being of their customers and associates, and all have pivoted quickly with new strategies and solutions.

The battle for a semi-final berth was incredibly tight with only three votes separating the covenanted eighth place slot advancing to the next round and the ninth-place finisher left with thoughts of what could have been and hopes for next year.

Food retailers can come to the rescue – as they have throughout this year’s pandemic – with solutions. In addition to being a resource for household staples and health and wellness products, retailers can provide ready-to-cook, ready-to-prepare and ready-to-eat offerings that make meals easier. Now is a good time to (once again) adapt and promote foodservice at retail programs as a solution for cooking fatigue and a different kind of holiday season.