Will’s Shop ‘n Save named 2019 Grocer of the Year
DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association is proud to announce Will’s Shop ‘n Save of Dover-Foxcroft as the 2019 Grocer of the Year.
On April 17, 2011 Will and his wife Melissa Wedge opened their doors as Will’s Shop ‘n Save. Following his passion of owning and operating his own store, Wedge previously held the role of director of fresh merchandising for Hannaford Supermarkets. His store features the optimal combination of locally sourced goods, particularly local produce, and quality goods procured via his partnership with Hannaford Supermarkets. He passionately crafted the store’s layout to ensure customers can shop with ease.
An important factor in the success of many of the state’s independent stores is the connection made within their communities. Wedge prides himself on working to meet customers’ needs and earning their loyalty by doing so.
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GROCER OF THE YEAR — Will and Melissa Wedge, owners of Will’s Shop ‘n Save in Dover-Focroft, are the Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association’s 2019 Grocer of the Year award honorees.
Will’s Shop ‘n Save is very consumer-centric. As customers shop associates ask them if they found everything they were looking for. If not, Will and Melissa Wedge travel to the full-variety Hannaford stores in Bangor in search of requested items. Melissa jokes this weekly trip is officially called “date night.”
Over the years, Will’s has added over 5,000 items to please their customers and be viewed as a locally owned supermarket who cares.
Their colleague Dave Duley, director of independent sales and retail capital planning, is pleased to recognize their award, “Hannaford is very proud to be a supply partner of Will’s Shop ‘n Save. Will and Melissa Wedge consistently operate a great store, and their connection to their community is inspirational.”
Whether it’s in-store relationships, involvement with the town’s array of events or the engaging fun on their Facebook page, it’s evident their customers and the community see themselves as a part of the Wedge family.
The Maine Grocers & Food Producers is honored to recognize Will Wedge for his persistent advocacy and willingness to connect with his elected officials. He has lent his voice and industry perspective on a variety of issues, ranging from raising minimum wage, to last session’s attempt at restrictive scheduling legislation.
“Will has always stepped up to assist in matters that involve regulation and legislation,” said Judy Knapp, government relations, Retail Business Services, an Ahold Delhaize company. “He sees the value in and results of getting involved with his state officials. Will’s background of working with a large supermarket operator and owing his own store serves him well to understand issues and their effects on all grocery members of MGFPA.
The 2019 Grocer of the Year award undoubtedly belongs to Wedge. He was hired in September of 1979 and has spent 40 years in the grocery sector as of last month. He is “very proud to be in the food industry” and we are thrilled to celebrate his success and longevity!
The award will be formally presented on Thursday, October 24 at the annual summit in Rockport at the Samoset Resort. Awarded annually this prestigious honor is given to a MGFPA member who meets the highest standards of excellence in providing a positive workplace, increased sales, contributions to the food industry through legislative or educational activities and a commitment to furthering opportunities for other Maine businesses.