"Queen Produce?"
Those were the first words on the phone call that announced to West Point Commissary's Maria Broda that she had been selected by United Fresh for its 2021 class of outstanding produce managers.
Broda's store visit from the association was also an event to remember, with attendance from higher-ups who came to commend her.
“It was very exciting," Broda said. "I feel like I’m very supported by my team, my managers, my supervisors and in the community also, so I’m very thankful and grateful.”
One of her favorite parts of the job is building mass displays and participating in contests. In normal years, fun, seasonal events that engage shoppers — including farmers markets and watermelon-eating contests — are also highlights.
While contests and customer interaction opportunities were more limited during the pandemic, Broda still found ways to engage her team to meet the department's goals.
“I’ve gotten my employees a lot more involved, engaged in what we’re doing, trying to come up with ideas to promote sales and things like that, and if it wasn’t for my team, I wouldn’t be where I’m at," Broda said. "They’re the backbone to my department, and I always try to uplift them, use their strengths or try to get them excited and involved as much as possible.”
Broda said she was ecstatic and emotional to be recognized by United and to receive words of support from her supervisors as well.
"I loved it," Broda said.
Broda participated in the fall season of PMG's Produce Artist Award Series and was recognized during that season's results webinar for the best pear display by a produce manager. To see that display and others in her entry, check out the video below.