Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Grown program and the Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA) have announced the opening of entries for the 2025–2026 Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year contest. The competition, which is open to grocery and liquor retailers across Minnesota, aims to highlight stores that promote products grown or raised in the state. Entries will be accepted until October 10, 2025, at 4 p.m.

The annual contest recognizes retailers who make significant efforts to showcase local products such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy items, alcoholic beverages, and packaged goods. Participating stores are encouraged to create displays and marketing campaigns that emphasize produce from Minnesota farmers during a period when many fresh foods are available.

“This contest is a fun and meaningful way for grocers to spotlight the incredible diversity of locally grown and raised products right as harvest season hits its peak,” said Jennifer Alexander, Regional Marketing Specialist at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. “We’re excited to see this year’s creativity and to celebrate the strong relationships between stores, producers, and the communities they serve.”

Patrick Garofalo, President of MGA, also commented on the importance of local engagement: “Grocers are deeply rooted in their communities and take pride in connecting Minnesotans with the best our state has to offer. We are proud to play a role in this collective effort that showcases and celebrates innovative partnerships and the commitment it takes to bring local products from farm to shelf.”

Retailers interested in participating must select a one-week period between August 1 and September 30, 2025. During this week, they should focus on promoting Minnesota Grown products through in-store displays or other activities such as community events or tasting stations. Digital campaigns highlighting local suppliers are also encouraged.

Winners will be chosen from different regions throughout Minnesota. In addition to regional awards, there will be a statewide honor for outstanding promotion of beer, wine, and spirits. The People’s Choice Award will return this year as well; it will involve public voting through social media platforms like Facebook.

Prizes for winners include exclusive use of the “Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year” logo during 2026. Winners will also receive a commemorative plaque presented at an MGA Awards Luncheon scheduled for spring 2026 and recognition in promotional materials by both Minnesota Grown and MGA.

To enter the contest or find more information about requirements and guidelines, interested retailers can visit the official Retailer of the Year contest webpage or submit their application via the online grants portal managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Minnesota Grown is an initiative under the Minnesota Department of Agriculture that promotes agricultural products produced within state borders. For over four decades, it has connected consumers with local farmers through resources like its searchable directory featuring more than 1,000 farms and markets statewide (minnesotagrown.com). Producers using the "Minnesota Grown" label must ensure their goods originate from within state lines.

The Minnesota Grocers Association represents various segments of Minnesota's food industry—from production through retail—with over 300 member companies operating nearly 1,300 locations statewide. The association has been active for more than 125 years supporting both unionized and non-union workers across these businesses.

For further details regarding entry procedures or contest questions, Jennifer Alexander can be reached via email at Jennifer.J.Alexander@state.mn.us.