What is in this article?:
- Power 50 2012: A Decade of Influence
- Enduring Influence
- Highlights from Past Power 50s
“It’s only recently that the industry has realized who has the final say,” wrote SN Group Editor Robert Vosburgh in 2003 about the growing recognition of the consumer’s influence.
Highlights from Past Power 50s
2003
The Consumer is ranked No. 1 on the inaugural list, and three Wal-Mart executives follow at No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4.
2004
Joe Hansen, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, makes his debut at No. 48 following the California strike/lockout.
2005
Ron Burkle and Tim Carroll, financial power players, join the Power 50 list at No. 29 and No. 30, respectively.
2006
Oprah Winfrey is recognized on this year’s list at No. 40 for her influence over consumers’ health and diet choices.
2007
Global powerhouse Tesco comes to the U.S., and its former CEO, Sir Terry Leahy, is named No. 21 on the Power 50 list.
2008
David Dillon of Kroger Co. rises to No. 1 on the list for the first time as the company proves itself during the economic downturn.
2009
SN groups the Power 50 according to specific attributes, such as “turnaround artist” and “nutrition champion.”
2010
First Lady Michelle Obama makes the Power 50 list at No. 5 as her role in seeking to influence nutrition and food access emerges.
2011
The evolution of UNFI as a key industry-wide player in the natural- and specialty-products arenas puts CEO Steve Spinner at No. 20.
