ESSEX JCT, VT – Krystal Smith of the Hannaford Supermarket on North Ave,
Burlington, bested other competitors to become the 2010 Vermont “Best
Bagger.” The competition took place September 25 during the Vermont Food
Industry’s annual convention and expo at the Miller Expo Centre at the
Champlain Valley Exposition.
Smith, an employee of Hannaford’s for the past 8 years, won the competition
from a field of contestants from supermarkets around the state. Store
manager, Al Lesage said, “We are very proud of her performance at the
competition and look forward to her participation at the nationals.” Her
next competition will be in Las Vegas, representing Vermont at the national
contest this winter, which is held in conjunction with the annual meeting of
the National Grocers Association.
Second place honors went to Courtney Troescher of Shaw’s and third went to
Robert Palmer of Price Chopper. Judges for this year’s event were the two
leading candidates for Secretary of State, Jim Condos and Jason Gibbs, along
with state senator and grocer, Dick Mazza.
Gubernatorial candidates Brian Dubie and Peter Shumlin engaged the press and
industry members in a spirited and fun bag-off, with Dubie edging out as
winner.
The Vermont Grocers' Association is a statewide organization representing
approximately 700 stores and 245 suppliers to the industry. The "Best
Bagger" competition was held on Saturday, September 25 and was emceed by
state representative Jim Condon.
