Festival Foods is proud to announce Michelle Fisher, Profit Protection Assistant Director, has been named a 2025 Progressive Grocer Top Woman in Grocery, a national honor recognizing outstanding female leaders in the grocery industry.
“Michelle is an inspirational leader who brings immense value to everything she touches. She meets her team where they are, guiding and motivating them to reach their goals while offering unwavering support along the way,” said Joe Laufenberg, Asset Protection Senior Director for Festival Foods. “Her grit and resilience enable her to push through the toughest challenges, driving meaningful change both within Festival Foods and in the broader community. I am thankful and proud to work alongside Michelle and witness firsthand the incredible impact she makes every day.”
Fisher assists with leading the company’s profit protection initiatives, overseeing a cross-functional team that supports all 42 store locations and both support offices. Her strategic leadership has strengthened asset protection, improved operational efficiency and elevated the guest experience through advanced technology.
Over the past year, Fisher has helped implement an exception-based reporting system at Festival, leading to the quick identification of profit-reducing activities across the business. The tool is driving greater profitability and operational efficiency through improved awareness and training. She also led the rollout of a scan-based reclamation program and contributed to upgrades in self-checkout technology as part of Festival’s Self-Checkout Strategy and Innovations Committee.
Fisher’s leadership in profit protection drives innovation and efficiency while strengthening security and elevating the guest experience. Beyond her operational impact, she’s actively involved as a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Salvation Army.
Fisher’s forward-thinking leadership and commitment to excellence continue to drive positive change at Festival Foods and across the grocery industry.
“I am truly humbled and honored to receive this national award. It’s a privilege to be part of such a dynamic and dedicated industry, and I’m especially grateful to be part of such an amazing company while working alongside an incredible team,” Fisher said. “This award is a reflection of all that we’ve accomplished together.”
Fisher joins nine current Festival Foods associates who have been previously honored by Progressive Grocer as Top Women in Grocery. Fisher will be celebrated with other 2025 TWIG award winners this November in Orlando, Florida.