Kevin Young of Young’s Payless IGA has been nominated for
International Retailer of the Year for the international independent grocers alliance. “This is the Super Bowl of the grocery world.” Said Kevin.
“It is a major honor to be nominated.”
The Young family owns and operates three IGA stores located
in Lockeford, Copperopolis and Pioneer. The Lockeford IGA was the family’s
flagship store established in 1953 by Kevin’s grandfather. Kevin began working at
his grandfather’s store at the young age of 8 and was on the payroll by the
time he was 12.
With the grocery business running through his veins, Kevin
has learned and abides by the simple philosophy to put customers and community
first. Following the IGA motto ‘Hometown Proud’ Kevin has repeatedly placed
community first through events, sponsorships, donations and simply by being
known as a generous person with a big heart. When approached by a non-profit or
school within the community the Young’s IGA answer is always, ‘How can we help
you?’
For over a decade the Young’s IGA store have received,
without fail, a five star rating from the corporate offices. The stores are
assessed three times per year and are rated on community service, cleanliness,
availability of products, employee performance, and more.
Earlier this year Kevin was bestowed the honor of retailer
of the year for the West Coast by C&S Wholesalers, the largest wholesale
grocery supply store in the United States.
Kevin has received this international nomination 3 times
throughout his career, making it to finalist in 2008.
