Honoring Women Shaping the Future of Grocery
Each year, Women Grocers of America (WGA) honors one extraordinary woman whose leadership, vision, and impact are shaping the future of the independent grocery industry. She is presented with the award at the annual NGA Show, attended by nearly 4,000 grocery professionals.
Established in 1996, the Woman of the Year Award celebrates professionals who exemplify true leadership, inspire through passion and purpose, and elevate the organizations and communities they serve.
Eligible nominees include women from all sectors of NGA membership—retailers, wholesalers, and associate/supplier partners—with at least seven years of experience in the independent grocery industry.
NOMINEE QUALIFICATIONS:
- The nominee exemplifies the true characteristics of a leader with passion for the independent grocery industry. She is a visionary who is an inspiration to others both within her community and workplace. The nominee distinguishes herself from her peers while shaping the face of her company or organization.
- Nominees from all NGA membership sectors are welcome – retailer, wholesaler, or associate/supplier. This includes single store retailers, state association executives, and other entities.
- The nominee is a woman with a minimum of 7 years experience in the independent food industry.
- The nominee does not have to be a member of WGA, but must be employed by a member of NGA.
NOMINATION INSTRUCTIONS:
To nominate a colleague or yourself, please use this form. The file attachment or description should be no more than 1 – 2 pages and describe the following:
- Describe why this woman deserves to be recognized as the Woman of the Year.
- Describe or list the candidate’s business achievements and accomplishments.
- Describe or list the candidate’s effectiveness in serving her community and/or her civil work.
- Describe how this candidate has contributed to the independent grocery industry. Please provide specific examples or stories that summarize these contributions.
Sponsored by
Past Awardees
2026
Kristin Popp
President
Woodman’s Food Markets
2025
Amy Niemetscheck
President & CEO
CertCo, Inc.
2024
Marcy Nathan
Creative Director
Rouses Markets
2023
Gwen Christon
Owner & Operator
Isom IGA
2022
Suzanne Schmitz
Owner/Operator
(Save A Lot Retail Partner)
Save A Lot
2021
Pamela Coy,
Owner
Viking Village Foods