I hope this Christmas Eve message finds you at peace, surrounded by the people and experiences that bring you joy and happiness. For me, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on this holiday season and the remarkable year we’ve shared as an Associated Food Stores team.
In this message, I’ve included a photo of myself as a young boy at Christmastime many years ago. I think the photo may have been taken in 1962. (Please don’t do the math!) I was very young and don’t remember that holiday—just the stories shared by my family over the years. My parents and grandparents worked hard to create magic on Christmas morning and those traditions came to mean something special as I grew older.
It seems to me our work in grocery stores is much like the traditions my parents and grandparents either initiated or continued early in my life. We may not always see the impact of what we do in the moment, but we are a part of something bigger. We’re helping families across our communities create meals, moments and memories that will last for years to come. From holiday feasts to festive snacks to delicious desserts, what we do matters, even when we don’t always see the outcome firsthand.
Thank you for continually supporting our member retailers. Your dedication helps ensure these retailers thrive in their communities, empowering their team members and the many families they represent to be successful. Through your hard work and commitment, you’ve contributed to something much greater than the day-to-day operations. You’re helping strengthen communities and creating lasting opportunities for each other and those we serve.
We’ve accomplished so much this year! Together, we’ve tackled difficult challenges, launched exciting new initiatives, and continued serving our members across nine states with incredible pride and commitment. We’ve embraced groundbreaking innovation, strengthened our many partnerships, and upheld the values that keep us moving forward at a rapid pace. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved as a “One Associated” team.
Just as family traditions bind us together during the holidays, our shared traditions at AFS-our values, our focus on exceptional service, and our support for one another-keep us united throughout the year. It’s what makes us strong, resilient and trusted by the member owners we serve.
As you take a break this Christmas to celebrate with your family and friends, I hope you can reflect on all you have personally accomplished and the meaningful work you do every day. You are the heart of our success, and I am truly grateful for the dedication, care and effort you bring to this team.
From my family to yours, I wish you a Merry Christmas, a restful holiday season and a bright, successful New Year.
With gratitude and warmest wishes,
Dave