Gary Buchanan of United Grocery Outlet has been named the 2015 Retailer of the Year
The Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association announced that Gary Buchanan of United Grocery Outlet has been named the 2015 Retailer of the Year. The association also announced that Scottie Mayfield of Mayfield Dairy Farms has been named the 2015 Supplier of the Year. The awards were presented at a ceremony at TGCSA’s annual convention at the Chattanooga Convention Center.
The TGCSA Board of Directors annually bestows these industry superlatives on leaders who have distinguished themselves through outstanding store or supplier operations, notable contributions to the food industry, community service and service to the association.
The 2015 Retailer of the Year, Gary Buchanan of Athens, Tn,, is a forty-year veteran of the grocery industry, having started off as a bagger at Alfred’s IGA at the age of 15.
When Mr. Buchanan joined his current employer as director of operations, the company had six retail grocery stores. Today, UGO is a chain of 36 stores in five states, and Gary is a principal resource in improving ideas and inventory-solving techniques for grocery manufacturers and vendors.
“I am so proud to have been chosen for this wonderful recognition by my peers”, stated Mr. Buchanan. “I have a lot of respect for my colleagues and TGCSA, and I’m humbled by this honor.”
Scottie Mayfield, also of Athens, is president emeritus of Mayfield Dairy Farms, Inc. Mr. Mayfield literally grew up at the Mayfield company, and was a veteran of the dairy producer’s plants and processes by the time he started full-time work there in 1972. The 2015 Supplier of the Year is known in the grocery industry not only as an effective spokesman for his company, but as a fair dealer of a high-quality product, and as a pillar of the community.
“Thanks to my friends in the food industry for this great honor”, Mr. Mayfield said. “It is gratifying to be recognized for excellence in doing something that you love.”
TGCSA Chairman of the Board John Edd Wampler praised Mr. Buchanan and Mr. Mayfield for their achievements. “Gary and Scottie both have been excellent leaders in their respective companies, and represent the high standards that are required for success in our competitive industry.”
Scottie Mayfield of Mayfield Dairy Farms has been named the 2015 Supplier of the Year