Minnesota Grocers Hail Latest Food Industry Hero

The Minnesota Grocers Association has honored State Sen. John Pederson as its 2014 Hero of the Food Industry for his leadership in advancing the food industry’s priorities during the state's legislative session during the past year.

"Senator Pederson has shown a steadfast commitment to common sense policies that create job growth and spur economic activity," said Jamie Pfuhl, MGA president. "He has demonstrated outstanding leadership in supporting a free marketplace, not placing undue burdens on local businesses and helping our neighbors keep their shopping baskets full. This award is a testament to his leadership, vision, and strong voice for industry."

Grocers Create Jobs

“Minnesota has a diverse economy and the food industry is an important part, providing one out of every twenty jobs in the state," said Peterson, a Republican from the central Minnesota city of St. Cloud, the state's eighth-largest city. "Our community is blessed to have an abundant network of job creators for the industry. I am honored to receive the 2014 Hero of the Food Industry award from the Minnesota Grocers Association and will continue to support an industry that puts food on the table for Minnesota families.”

Founded in 1897, MGA represents more than 200 retail members with nearly 1,100 stores statewide, and some 100 distributors and manufacturers.