Submitted Photo Christopher DeMarie, center, is pictured with Tops, Dole and IFPA representatives, after receiving the 2023 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Award.

Christopher DeMarie, produce manager for Tops Friendly Markets in Dunkirk received the United Fresh 2023 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Award. The United Fresh Retail Produce Manager Awards Program pays special recognition to produce managers – essential workers of the food supply chain’s front lines – who work every day to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.

For 19 years, United Fresh has honored 15 of the industry’s top retail produce managers for their commitment to fresh produce, innovative merchandising, community service, and customer satisfaction.

“Among his many accomplishments that lead to us honoring Chris, he reinvented Hispanic offerings as that demographic showed promise at his location. Using an innovative fixture and refreshing the item mix and merchandising, this category has grown to staggering heights and his reinvention has been implemented at sister stores,” said Jeff Cady, director of produce and floral.

DeMarie is a resident of Forestville.