This year, Associated Food Stores proudly recognizes a remarkable group of team members as recipients of the One Associated Award for their work on Project ROAR. These individuals, and the many team members they represent, show the unity, accountability and collaborative spirit that define AFS. 

Project ROAR is one of the most important initiatives in AFS’s history. By modernizing systems, strengthening infrastructure and improving the experience for both retailers and team members, the project creates a foundation for long-term growth and continued success. A key part of the effort involves bringing automation to the Farr West distribution center, focusing on areas that will increase speed, accuracy and overall efficiency. 

The award recipients collaborated across departments and roles to make this vision a reality. Working closely with company leadership and the Board of Directors, they helped evaluate options, manage resources responsibly and create detailed execution and communications plans. Their work reflects thoughtful financial and operational investments that strengthen AFS for the future. 

Because of their efforts, retailers are already seeing real operational benefits. Updated warehouse processes improve accuracy and efficiency, and innovations such as pallets built according to store schematics save time and labor. 

Within the distribution center, these team members’ contributions are creating a safer, more sustainable workplace. Strategic automation reduces workload and stress while helping the company meet growing demand. There were no layoffs tied to these efforts; instead, the focus is on growing skill sets and creating opportunities across operations, transportation and support roles. 

Their leadership also reflects AFS’s commitment to smart, forward-looking investments. By improving warehouse efficiency, they help drive success across the company and strengthen AFS’s role as a trusted partner for retailers and vendor partners. 

The One Associated Award honors those who put the good of the whole above individual roles. Through their collaboration, dedication and perseverance, these recipients have made Project ROAR a meaningful step forward for the company and the independent retailers it serves. 

The award was accepted by the following team members on behalf of their teams: 

  • Justin Johnson 
  • Todd Bell 
  • Jesse Blake 
  • Damon Fischio 
  • Carl Jensen 
  • Terri Jensen 
  • Tony Merrill 
  • Jared Mitchell 
  • Rand Mickelson 
  • Ryan Padilla 
  • Alan Whitman