AWG’s Garland Honored with NGA Service Award

Jerry Garland, former president and CEO of Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG), received the National Grocers Association’s (NGA) Industry Service Award, which honors years of service that have contributed to better working relations within the industry.

“It is an honor to recognize Jerry, who has been a longtime advocate of the independent supermarket industry with this top award,” said Peter Larkin, NGA president and CEO. “Throughout his career, Jerry has been a steadfast leader and a fierce supporter of ensuring a level playing field for independent supermarket operators and building important relationships among trading partners and elected officials along the way.”

Garland served as president and CEO of AWG from 2009 to 2015 and grew sales by 31 percent and increased net income by 70 percent. The $9 billion AWG now operates nine distribution centers.

The Service Award, established in 1983, is one of NGA’s highest honors; past reciepants include Steve Holdiman (Mondelez International), Gary Phillips (AWG) and Nick D’Agostino (D’Agostino’s Supermarket).