Derryl Reed

In celebration of  African-American vendors and their entrepreneurial spirit, Jewel-Osco acknowledges Black History Month with the 11th Annual “A Taste of Black History”.

The contributions of three African-American entrepreneurs who help provide jobs through their role as vendors with Jewel-Osco will also be saluted during the opening reception:

• Derryl Reed of Smokin’ Joe Products, LLC will receive the Brand Ambassador Award for aggressively working to promote the Smokin’ Joe brand in the market place.
• LaVonne Sanders of Popcorn and More, Inc. will receive the Innovator Award for continually recreating the MixMatch brand.
• Paul Fregia of Grandma Maud’s will receive the Legacy Award for longevity in the Supplier Diversity Program.

“Jewel-Osco has always understood the value of developing minority vendors,” said Jim Seidler, Jewel-Osco ethnic category manager.  ”We believe offering their products shows we understand our customers’ needs.  In turn, we hope customers recognize that, by purchasing African-American vendor products, they are also supporting these outstanding men and women.”

“We are committed to developing and growing locally owned African-American businesses,” said Jewel-Osco President Keith Nielsen.

Read more about the scheduled February events, and Jewel-Osco’s Chicago area in-store celebrations and tastings here.