Downers Grove – October 16, 2026 -- Midwest grocer Fresh Thyme Market has placed five employees on Progressive Grocer's 2026 GenNext list, which recognizes emerging leaders in the grocery industry.
Honorees span category management, store operations and IT
The five honorees are Joe Sanchez, Deli Category Manager; Zachary Robbins, Store Director in Newport, Kentucky; Bri Chin, Natural Living Category Manager; Jared Anderson, Vegetable Category Manager; and Manny Perez, IT Network & Systems Infrastructure Manager.
Three of the five hold merchandising roles across deli, natural living and vegetables. The remaining two cover store-level leadership and technology infrastructure.
Award criteria focus on customer commitment and local impact
The GenNext Awards recognize emerging leaders who shape the future of grocery through commitment to customers and local communities, innovative thinking and leadership. Winners are expected to show they can overcome challenges, identify ways to better serve shoppers and make a difference in and beyond the workplace.
Fresh Thyme president ties recognition to company values
Liz Zolcak, President of Fresh Thyme, said the honorees demonstrate the company's core values of quality, experience and community. She said their work keeps the customer experience first and "helps set us apart as a brand."