Associated Retail Operations (ARO) held its annual bagging competition at the Associated Food Stores’ corporate office on Thursday, June 20.  

Representatives from Macey’s, Dan’s, Lin’s, Dick’s Market and Fresh Market were all on hand to demonstrate their bagging prowess. AFS President and CEO David Rice addressed the enthusiastic crowd and ARO leaders, including ARO President Darin Peirce and Vice President of Retail Operations Greg Welling, extended sincere appreciation to the many individuals who demonstrate their commitment and skills to care for guests every day. Candice Fischer, Brandon Allred, Amber Condie, LoriAnn Tanner and others organized and led the fun-filled event.  

After judge introductions and a review of rules, baggers battled to earn the opportunity to represent ARO at the state level. During the competition, baggers are judged and receive points in four areas: speed (10 points), proper bag building technique (10 points), distribution of weight between bags (5 points), style, attitude and appearance (5 points).    

Following multiple intense rounds, Jacey Steedley from Lin’s in Hurricane took first place, Megan Torres from Macey’s Pleasant Grove secured second place and Areo Fratto from Macey’s Olympus came in third place. Other top-ten finishers, who will compete in the state contest, included Leila Bloomfield from Macey’s in Orem, Jasmynn Huish from Macey’s Market Little Cottonwood, Miriam Ruelas from Macey’s in Spanish Fork, Anthony Martin from Lin’s on Mall Drive, Makenzie Wood from Fresh Market in Layton, Bradan Morrill from Lin’s on Sunset Drive in St. Geoge and Landon Jones from Dick’s in Bountiful. 

“It is so fun and rewarding to see the hard work of so many people paying off,” said Candice Fischer, director of customer relations at ARO. “Baggers, cashiers, front-end managers, store directors and others all play important roles in creating wonderful checkout experiences for our guests. This competition highlights the skills and attitude that make our stores leaders in customer service.”  

Watch Team News for a video recap of the exciting event.