Keweenaw Co-op Board members visited the store recently to read a declaration of appreciation to the employees in honor of Supermarket Employee Day. From left are Karin Cooper, Cathy Campbell-Olszewski, Rebecca Matuszak, board president, and Joan Schumaker Chadde. (Photo Courtesy of Keweenaw Coop)

HANCOCK — On February 22nd, Keweenaw Co-op celebrated Supermarket Employee Day, recognizing the hard work and dedication of grocery workers who keep the community stocked and nourished.

“As part of the celebration, our board members visited the store to read a declaration of appreciation to our employees, highlighting their essential role in daily life,” said Ariele Pizzo, marketing and outreach coordinator of Keweenaw Cooperative, Inc.

“Every meal begins with a trip to the grocery store,” said Denise Hansen, Retail and Operations

Manager of the Keweenaw Co-op, in a Thursday release. “Whether it is the co-op or one of the other grocers in ourarea, it took an employee to stock or prep food for you to have the meal you want. We

celebrate food and we celebrate the people who make it happen.”

The state or Michigan established Feb. 22 as Supermarket Employee Day in 2021, in recognition for the critical role Michigan grocery workers played throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) is lauded state legislators for declaring February 22 as Supermarket Employee Day, the Oakland County Legal News stated.

The Michigan Senate adopted Senate Resolution 18, sponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Kevin Daley (R-Lum) and the Michigan House adopted House Resolution 36, sponsored by House Agriculture Committee Vice-Chair Bryan Posthumus (R-Cannon Township) on February 18.

The Keweenaw Co-op works with over 45 local producers, all from the Upper Peninsula, the store’s website says.

“Our shelves are stocked with items grown and crafted with care by our neighbors, bringing a taste of the UP to you and your loved ones.”