Recognizing Impact is Important

2025 Store Manager Awardee, Tahjae Welch, of The MarketPlace in Bermuda, talks about his journey from an entry-level position to leadership, highlighting the importance of recognizing hard work in the food industry.

By: Madeline Torrisi, Manager, Marketing, FMI, and Morgan Griffin, Manager, Communications, FMI

Last summer, the recipient for the 2025 international retailers category of the Store Manager Awards went to Tahjae Welch, a Bermuda native. Welch’s story began right out of high school, balancing his successful soccer career with serving his community as a merchandiser and cashier. We sat down with Welch to learn more about how he has applied his on-the-field leadership and teamwork to the food industry as the youngest store manager for The MarketPlace, a family-owned supermarket with 8 locations serving the island of Bermuda.

Q: Tahjae, congratulations on being named the 2025 Category D Store Manager Awards Winner. What was your reaction when you found out?

Welch: My reaction was a mix of relief and excitement. The days leading up to the FMI Store Manager Award ceremony were very nerve-racking, and the closer it got, the more the anxiousness built. On the day itself, my nerves were through the roof. When my name was announced, the excitement really hit me, and I began to fully realize what the achievement meant. It was a proud moment for me, for my family, for Bermuda and for everyone at The MarketPlace who have supported me throughout my journey.

Q: What do you think resonated most with the people who voted for you?

Welch: I think what resonated most was the “wow” factor of my journey. I started at The MarketPlace at an entry-level position and worked my way up over time, learning different roles and responsibilities along the way. Seeing that progression from where I started to where I am now stood out and showed that the journey was real. I believe people connected with that growth and consistency, which made it hard to overlook.

Q: How has receiving this award impacted you professionally?

Welch: This award has impacted me professionally in a very positive way. It has motivated me to keep improving and to push myself even further as a leader. It has also made me more aware of the example I set for others, especially younger team members who may be starting out where I once did. I am very thankful to The MarketPlace for the opportunities they gave me to grow, learn and develop into the position I am in today.

Q: Why do you think awards like this are important for the food industry?

Welch: Awards like this are important for the food industry because they give people a chance to recognize the hard work that happens in stores every day. There are many individuals who consistently go above and beyond for customers, often without much attention or recognition. Working at The MarketPlace has shown me how much effort the store teams put in day in and day out, and awards like this help highlight that work. They also allow customers and communities to take part in recognizing the people who make a positive difference through great service and leadership.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering nominating a store manager this year?

Welch: My advice would be to think about the impact that store manager has had on you. If they left you with a positive shopping experience or a good memory from being in their store, then they deserve a nomination. If every time you go into their store it is well run, welcoming and has everything you need, that is worth recognizing. Even if you have only heard good things about a manager and have not met them personally, their positive impact still matters and should be acknowledged.

Do you know someone like Tahjae Welch? Help us honor their hard work by nominating them for the 2026 Store Manger Awards before February 28. 

Submit Your Nomination