Adam Papin/MDN John Dyste of the North Dakota Grocers Association (right) presents Craig Heupel of Marketplace Foods with the Grocery Retailer of the Year award on Wednesday.
The conference room at the 20th Avenue Marketplace was packed with former and current Marketplace Foods employees as the North Dakota Grocers Association (NDGA) surprise presented the Grocery Store Manager Craig Heupel with the North Dakota Grocers Association (NDGA) Grocery Store Manager of the Year award on Wednesday.
The employees eagerly awaited Heupel’s arrival, which was delayed a bit because he had to quickly put up “Caution, wet floor” signs in the store after Wednesday’s downpour. When Heupel finally entered, the room erupted in applause that nearly knocked him over as he took it all in.
“Craig has traveled far. He has touched many people. His enthusiasm and passion for grocery stores, I think everyone here can speak to that and has seen it. You really deserve the award for everything you do, so congratulations.” Said Zac Miller, senior branch manager.
Heupel began his career in 1990 in the produce department at the Dakota Square Miracle Mart and worked through a number of positions and marketplace locations in Minot over the next few years.
“I don’t feel like I’m the grocer of the year. It’s just what we do day in and day out.” said Heupel. “I didn’t expect that at all.”
The award was presented by John Dyste of the NDGA, who praised Heupel for the enthusiasm and positive attitude he brings to his job every day.
“You don’t always see that. I don’t hear any complaints from you. I don’t hear any grumbling. That’s the one thing that has always stuck with me: you’re always excited about your job, you’re excited about Minot and your business. I really appreciate that.” said Dyste.
Heupel said the enthusiasm he feels for his job comes from his daily interactions with customers and the relationships he has built with them.
“At the grocery store, there’s always something to look forward to as the next event rolls around. The holidays are coming up. The Super Bowl is coming up. Valentine’s Day is coming up and then summer is coming up. Everyone loves to eat. Who doesn’t love finding something to eat? Usually, people are in a good mood when they come to the grocery store. It’s always fun to find new things for people to try because there’s always the latest and greatest.” said Heupel.
Heupel took a moment to thank everyone in the room and said he appreciated the history and experiences he had shared with them over the years.
“I can’t do anything alone. There are so many people who have helped me train and motivated me. I just think back to the days when they taught me little things along the way. Each one of them touches your life and makes you who you are. Everyone in the room is a part of me.” said Heupel.
