May 24, 2004
WASHINGTON, DC — May 24, 2004 — In recognition of excellence in training and human resources initiatives, the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) today announced plans for the 3rd Annual Maximizing People Potential Award. Nominations for the 2004 award can be submitted to FMI beginning June 1.

     
The “Maxx” award is presented to the retail or wholesale company that develops a human resources or training initiative that significantly improves the performance of associates or leads to the achievement of a key business goal. The competition is open to any FMI retailer/wholesaler member company that registers a representative for the 2004 FMI Human Resources/Training & Development Conference (HR/T&D), September 19-22 in New Orleans, LA.

Submissions will be evaluated on three primary criteria:

  • Extent to which the contribution gives a tangible return on investment for the organization over a sustained period. For example, a cafeteria benefits program that reduces costs and increases morale by providing flexible benefits for associates, or a safety training program that reduces injuries and associated expenses for a sustained period of time.

  • Impact of contribution to workplace learning and performance, including influence on practitioners and thought leaders within the organization. For example, a management development initiative that enhances the skills and performance of the management team for a sustained period of time.

  • Minimal use of outside products and support materials, which must not comprise more than 50 percent of the submission. All outside materials must be identified and documented.

    Interested companies must submit a detailed 1,500 - 2,000 word report describing the initiative’s focus and scope, and how it improved overall business performance during the past year. All entries must be postmarked by August 6.

    Submissions will be narrowed down to three finalists and presented to attendees of the 2004 HR/T&D Conference. Attendees will then vote for the most exceptional program and the winning company will be announced during an awards dinner at the conference. The winning company will receive a trophy and recognition on the FMI Web site and in promotional material for the 2005 program.

    Previous award winners include Hy-Vee, Inc. in 2003 and Big Y Foods, Inc. in 2002.

    “FMI is very excited to launch the 3rd annual Maximizing People Potential Award to recognize outstanding and innovative human resources and training initiatives,” said Kimberly Roberts, manager, education programs, FMI. “We strongly encourage all of our retailer and wholesaler member companies to participate.”

    For more information on the program, please contact Kimberly Roberts (202-220-0720, kroberts@fmi.org).