At this year’s annual meeting, Associated Food Stores welcomed Eric Mackay, owner of Mack’s Market, as the newest member of its board of directors. Eric brings a lifetime of connection to AFS and a steady commitment to supporting independent grocers.
For Eric, the AFS story is personal. His grandfather spent 40 years as a produce buyer at Associated Food Stores, and his father worked in the accounting department for 12 years. Eric followed that path, spending 30 years working at a member store before purchasing his own. He has now been an owner and AFS member for the past seven years.
His work ethic started early. When he was 12, his dad made it clear that anything beyond the basics would be up to him to earn. Eric took that to heart, picking up jobs like babysitting and mowing lawns to pay for the things he wanted.
That same determination showed up when he applied for a job at Blair’s Market in Cody, Wyoming, in 1987. After not being hired right away, he came back every Friday for nearly four months to ask if there was an opening. Eventually, he got his chance. Starting as a carryout, he learned quickly and took pride in the work. Over time, he worked his way up to become a store director for an organization he valued deeply.
Eric has been actively involved with AFS throughout his career. He has served on the Information Technology Advisory Committee for 17 years and has also contributed to the Advertising and Marketing Committee and the Retailer Council Committee over the past three years. In addition, he has participated in several other groups and initiatives, including SPARK, Rewards, shopper focus groups and GM/Seasonal. He has also served as a pilot store for AFS programs and testing and has been an early adopter of tools like electronic shelf labels and computer-generated ordering.
He holds a degree in Business Management from the University of Wyoming and has served in leadership roles in his church, community and other local organizations. He looks for opportunities to contribute where he can make a positive difference.
Outside of the store, Eric enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether it’s horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking or boating, he values time spent exploring and staying active. He especially enjoys sharing those experiences with his wife, Mindy, and their three children, Kacey, Makenna and Elias.
As Eric joins the AFS Board, he brings a practical perspective shaped by years of experience and a strong belief in the future of the independent grocer. He’s focused on staying engaged, supporting fellow retailers and helping the organization continue to grow.