<p>By: Tom Cosgrove, Director, Industry Relations, FMI</p><p>In a <a href="https://www.fmi.org/blog/view/fmi-blog/2024/04/23/leveraging-technology-for-effective-asset-protection-strategies">previous blog</a>, I discussed the growing importance of the Asset Protection field in the food retail industry. This is true at all points of the supply chain, from ingredients all the way to the store’s shelf. </p><p>While technology and security measures play a significant role in preventing loss, employees are the first line of defense in protecting a company’s assets. Employees are the eyes and ears of a business, and they are often the first to notice suspicious behavior or potential threats. They are also your best asset when it comes to developing and implementing a strategy that fits within your company’s infrastructure and culture.</p><img src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/blog-images/gold-stars-on-purple.tmb-large-350-.jpg?Culture=en&sfvrsn=924edfa7_1" style="float:right;margin-bottom:10px;margin-left:15px;margin-top:-25px;" class="-align-right" alt="Rising Stars" sf-size="100" /><p>We think it’s important to recognize those who go above and beyond in such a critical field. When FMI revived the <a href="https://www.fmi.org/asset-protection-and-grocery-resilience-conference">Asset Protection and Grocery Resilience Conference</a>, the committee celebrated emerging talents and seasoned legends in the industry. </p><h5>FMI Rising Star Award</h5><p>The Rising Star Award, which recognizes emerging talents in the industry, is in its third year. Joining previous recipients Michelle Fischer and JP Frattone are three wonderful and deserving finalists. </p><ul><li><strong>Alex Corbin – Meijer: </strong>Alex Corbin excels in crisis management, swiftly restoring operations after disasters like the Tipp City tornado. Leading Meijer’s acclaimed threat assessment team, he prevents harm and refines crisis protocols. Corbin’s dedication is evident, from crafting exercises to collaborating for community preparedness, all focused on safety and continuity. </li><li><strong>Luke Devine – The Kroger Co.: </strong>Luke Devine is an outstanding District AP Manager with a proven track record of success. Devine comes from a law enforcement family but fell in love with the Asset Protection business. He shows amazing leadership, business acumen and has a communication style that grabs the attention of his audience.</li><li><strong>Haile Kasiner – Harps Food:</strong> Haile Kasiner’s efforts in creating transactional reports have saved over $100,000 for Harps Food by identifying internal thefts and losses. She sharpened her skills in interviews and interrogations, leading to the successful recovery of almost $15,000 through approximately 40 internal interviews. Kasiner’s diplomacy and problem-solving abilities have been key to her success.</li></ul><p>Congratulations to these three excellent members of the Asset Protection community!</p><img src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/blog-images/apgr-award-finalists.jpg?sfvrsn=32b5266e_1" style="display:block;margin:10px auto;" class="-align-center" alt="Asset Protection Awards" sf-size="100" /><h5>FMI Asset Protection Legend Award</h5><p>This year, the Asset Protection Council unanimously voted to award Mike Lamb with the prestigious Legend Award. Reserved for those who’ve surpassed all expectations, this award celebrates individuals whose contributions to the Asset Protection community are truly extraordinary. With an impressive career spanning nearly four decades, Lamb has navigated through esteemed companies such as Home Depot, Walmart and Kroger, leaving his mark in senior asset protection roles.</p><p>Join us in celebrating award recipients and their accomplishments at this year’s <a href="https://www.fmi.org/asset-protection-and-grocery-resilience-conference">Asset Protection and Grocery Resilience Conference</a>. There’s still time to register! </p><p><a href="https://www.fmi.org/asset-protection-and-grocery-resilience-conference/registration" class="button">Register Now</a></p>
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