NEW to honor Delhaize America for diversity leadership

CHICAGO - Delhaize America has been recognized for its diversity leadership by the Network of Executive Women, the consumer products and retail industry's largest diversity organization. Delhaize executives will accept the Network's Outstanding Champion award at a reception to be held May 11 during FMI 2010 in Las Vegas.

"Delhaize America has long been a diversity leader in the retail industry and a strong supporter of NEW's mission of attracting, retaining and advancing women in the business," said Network President Alison Kenney Paul, a principal with Deloitte. "In addition, the company has a strong commitment to diversity.   The company's executive leadership team has five women executives, and three of the company's four operating banners are led by women."

Delhaize America is a member of the Brussels-based Delhaize Group and one of the largest supermarket chains in the United States. The company operates under the names of Food Lion, Bloom, Bottom Dollar, Hannaford Brothers, Harvey's, Reid's and Sweetbay.

Delhaize America has been a strong supporter of the Network and diversity. Cathy Green, president of the Food Lion Family, is a member of NEW's board of directors and was instrumental in the creation of NEW's Carolinas regional group. She speaks regularly at Network events and is active with the Network, enrolling new members and sponsors. Hannaford Brothers was an early supporter of the Network's first regional chapter in New England, while Mike Vail and the Sweetbay team took the lead in initiating NEW's Florida group. Vail, president of Sweetbay, was a keynote speaker at the Network's 2009 Executive Leaders Forum.

"The Network's 2010 Outstanding Champion award honors these executives and the entire Delhaize America team," said Joan Toth, the Network's executive director. "This is the first time we have recognized an entire company with our Outstanding Champion award, and that recognizes just how widespread its support of NEW's mission has been."