Save Mart Names Store Manager of the Year

MODESTO, Calif. — Save Mart Supermarkets named Luke Houston, store manager of the Scenic and Oakdale Save Mart here, with the its 2012 Nicholas J. Tocco Outstanding Store Manager of the Year Award.

The award, created in honor of the late Nicholas J. Tocco, co-founder of Save Mart, was presented by Save Mart owner and Chairman Bob Piccinini.

Nominees for the award must meet the company’s standards for store performance, customer service and community involvement. Houston was one of 10 nominees for this year’s award.

Read more: Save Mart Names Chief Supply Chain Officer

Houston’s grocery career started as a teenager at Gemco, and continued with Lucky stores for 11 years until he was hired by Save Mart in 1990. He was promoted to store manager in 1997. A nominee for the award three previous times, Houston has been a trainer and coach in various company programs.

“Luke has only one speed and that is full throttle; his leadership improves every store he manages,” said Ed Popke, vice president of Save Mart operations, in a statement. “Profits grow every quarter, and his team gives excellent customer service.”

“I am both honored and humbled by my selection,” said Houston. “I am fortunate to have an outstanding staff and to have been associated with and inspired by excellent leaders throughout my career.”

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