Trout, Wampler Named TGCSA's Retailer, Supplier Of The Year

Knoxville, Tennessee – The Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association has announced that Steve Trout of K-VA-T Food City has been named the 2017 Retailer of the Year.  The association also announced that John Edd Wampler of Family Brands has been named the 2017 Supplier of the Year.  The awards were presented at a ceremony at TGCSA’s annual convention at the Knoxville Convention Center on June 8.

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 2017 Retailer of the Year, Steve Trout, is a forty-eight-year veteran of the grocery industry, having started at Piggly Wiggly as a high school student in Belfry, Kentucky.  During his career at K-VA-T, Steve has served in almost every possible position.  He distinguished himself in his current position of District Manager in the aftermath of the devastating Gatlinburg wildfires, serving on the area taskforce that raised and disbursed more than $1 million to residents affected by the disaster.

“I am so proud to have been chosen for this wonderful recognition by my peers”, stated Trout.  “I have a lot of respect for my colleagues and TGCSA, and I’m humbled by this honor.”

John Edd Wampler is a native and lifelong resident of Lenoir City, where he has worked in the meatpacking business his family started in 1947.  A former Chairman of the TGCSA Board of Directors, John Edd is an active community and food industry leader.

TGCSA Chairman of the Board Terry Roberts praised Trout and Wampler for their achievements.  “Steve and John Edd both have been excellent leaders in their respective companies, and represent the high standards that are required for success in our competitive industry.”

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About the Tennessee Grocers’ & Convenience Store Association – The Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association is the only food trade association that represents all segments of Tennessee’s food market.  Membership is comprised of retail grocery store and convenience store operations as well as food industry wholesalers, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers.  TGCSA has been serving the needs of its members since 1978.

Source: Tennessee Grocers’ & Convenience Store Association