Vashon Thriftway honored with special grocery industry award

Norm Mathews, owner of the Vashon Thriftway, was presented with the 2014 “Excellence in Operations” award by the Washington Food Industry Association. Mathews received the honor in a surprise ceremony which highlighted his many achievements within grocery business.   
“Norm has worked tirelessly to improve his store and better his community,” said Jan Gee, President & CEO of the Washington Food Industry Association. “The Vashon Thriftway is a perfect example what our local industry strives to be. Norm has been an outstanding leader and his actions demonstrate his ongoing commitment to providing the best service and products available.”
Candidates for the “Excellence in Operations” award are nominated by WFIA members based on the store’s proven history to excel in the daily operations of the store, merchandising products, and exceptional employee relations. The award also recognizes dedication to the prosperity, ethics, and image of the independent grocery industry in that Norm Mathews is always open to help a fellow grocer with ideas to improve operations. Winners are chosen by the WFIA Board of Directors. 
Mathews began his career as a “box boy” with Tradewell stores in 1946. Within five years he was able to work his way into management. He later purchased Vashon Thriftway and has been very active within his community.  Mathews has been recognized by a numbers of organizations for his work and his store regularly donates to Vashon schools, foods banks, youth sports and the Red Cross.