SEATTLE — The Washington Food Industry here has named Jeff Phillips, president and chief executive officer of Rosauers Supermarket, Spokane, its 2009 Retailer of the Year. The award was presented, WFI said, based on Phillips’ commitment to the prosperity, ethics and image of the independent grocery industry.
According to WFI, Phillips displayed “his heart and commitment” last winter — when a Rosauer store had to close for four months of repair after heavy snow caused the roof to collapse — when he found jobs at other stores for some employees and continued to pay 90% of the salaries and health benefits of those that were temporarily laid off.
“Even when companies throughout the Northwest and the country were shedding employees every day, Jeff decided to do the right thing for the well-being of his people,” said Jan Gee, WFI president and chief executive officer.
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