Save A Lot owner recognized at The NGA Show
Las Vegas, NV – Women Grocers of America (WGA) on Monday presented the WGA Woman of the Year Award to Suzanne Schmitz, a Save A Lot owner in Western New York.
The award, presented during The NGA Show at the Caesars Forum Convention Center in Las Vegas, Feb. 27-March 1, 2022, is bestowed upon a female grocer that shows the true characteristics of a leader, possessing a passion for the independent grocery industry. The award is presented annually to strategic thinkers, standout representatives within their company that persevere through any challenges that face them.
Schmitz began working with Save A Lot as a summer employee at age 16. She continued seasonal work while in college pursuing a business degree. After graduating, she operated one of her employer’s top-performing stores.
In 2010, Schmitz became a Save A Lot owner, going on to eventually own five Save A Lot stores across New York. She oversees operations, inventory management and hours of operation for her stores. She manages a team of more than 70 employees, staying involved in the needs and intricacies of the stores to be successful.
“Suzanne Schmitz is an independent grocer who is committed to ensuring her stores run efficiently, providing fresh food and high-quality products for her customers. Her leadership style is an inspiration to women across the industry looking to succeed,” said Kristin Popp, president of WGA. “I congratulate Suzanne for receiving this award and look forward to working together for years to come as we continue to open doors within our industry to female leaders.”
