No. 66 - Rochester Top 100
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.
About Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.: Retail food centers
Rank on 2006 Top 100: 66
Employees: 35,754
Website: www.wegmans.com
We asked Danny Wegman, CEO, to talk about his business.
Question: What were some of Wegmans major accomplishments this year?
Wegman: In 2006, we opened three new stores, all in the Philadelphia area - two in South Jersey and one in Bucks County, PA - and we began work on our new Mt. Read Boulevard store, which opens on Sunday, July 29. It was also the fifth anniversary for Wegmans Menu magazine, and we were, of course, thrilled to once again be included on FORTUNE magazine's list of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For.' We've now been on the list for 10 consecutive years.
Question: How has Wegmans sustained continual growth?
Wegman: By investing in our people, and by living the values passed down to us from my father: Caring; High Standards; Making a Difference in the Community; Respect, and Empowerment.
Question: What does it mean to your business to be recognized by the Rochester Business Alliance as one of Rochester's Top 100 Companies?
Wegman: Rochester is our home. In addition to 24 area stores, our corporate office and distribution/manufacturing facilities are here, and a significant percentage of our workforce is here as well. Although our future growth will be centered in the mid-Atlantic region, Rochester will always be important to us and we will continue to invest in our stores here.
Question: What programs or events does Wegmans have for the local community?
Wegman: It's impossible to list all of the events we're involved with, but some of the most popular are the WPOPS series with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra; Concerts by the Shore at Charlotte Beach, and of course, the Wegmans LPGA.
Question:What trends are you seeing among your customers in terms of preferences?
Wegman:Our customers and our employees want to live healthier lives. They know it's important to eat more fruits and vegetables, but it's not always easy to do. Wo we're trying to products that make it easier. Locally-grown produce, when it's in season, is also important to our customers. And, they are also looking for help with meals in general, whether it's an easy-to-make recipe, a cooking technique, or great tasting prepared foods.