WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Confectioners Association is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2016 Confectionery Leadership Awards. The awards celebrate the recipients’ contributions to the category through their effective business collaboration, category management best practices, and innovations in merchandising confectionery products in stores. Selected for their knowledge, wisdom, expertise and commitment, the 2016 recipients are Julie Bierman, senior buyer from Army & Air Force Exchange Service (“The Exchange”), and Jennifer Dilts, senior buyer from Dollar General.
“This award recognizes dedication and innovation on the part of the industry’s retail customers, those individuals who go above and beyond as role models for the industry,” says NCA’s Vice President of Industry Affairs Larry Wilson. “Many deserving and worthy candidates were submitted for the 2016 Confectionery Leadership Award, and both Julie and Jennifer impressed the committee as exceptional leaders who personify professionalism, leadership and success.”
Bierman, who has been with The Exchange for more than 30 years, said, “It’s a privilege to be part of the Exchange team of dedicated people who are committed to better serving the military community, while working with an industry of amazing people that support our mission, and help make a difference!”
Dilts also credits her team at Dollar General and the company’s dedication to serving its customers as the reason she has been successful in her endeavors. “It is very humbling and rewarding to be recognized for the leadership award,” said Dilts. “I am grateful to be a part of an outstanding team at Dollar General which is focused on serving our customers with quality, convenience and everyday low prices.”
NCA and Candy & Snack TODAY magazine created the awards program in 2011 to recognize and honor the confectionery industry’s best and most innovative category champions and leaders. The program allows NCA manufacturers and brokers to recognize outstanding retailers and wholesalers in the confectionery community for their effective customer marketing, shopper-driven shelving practices, and promotion of new items.
Bierman and Dilts will be presented with their awards in Miami at NCA’s annual State of the Industry Conference February 28 – March 2, 2016.
# # #
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization representing the $35 billion U.S. confections industry. NCA and its members value the fun and enjoyment of chocolate, candy, gum and mints, serving as a transparent and trustworthy source while building and promoting a responsible industry. As the leading trade association for the industry, NCA is proud of the role it plays in the public’s understanding and appreciation of candy’s unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle. For more information, visit www.CandyUSA.com.
Source: The National Confectioners Association