Utopia Across America - Week Two

We were back in Pan-Oston's hometown, Bowling Green, Kentucky, this week, which gave us time to reflect on the first two weeks of our Utopia Across America Tour. The response from independent grocers has been phenomenal; in many ways, even better than we anticipated. Everyone seems genuinely impressed with what they've experienced on board the Innovation Centers and are appreciative to not only see the products and technology, but to engage in meaningful discussions about their businesses, and discuss opportunities for improving customer service, as well as bottomlines.

Week two for Jeff G. and Derek aboard RV #1 was spent traveling Michigan and Indiana. They made stops in Ann Arbor, Lansing, Muskegon, Traverse City, South Bend and Merrillville, visiting with the welcoming employees of Busch's Fine Foods, L & L Foods, Plumb Inc., Oleson's Food Markets, Martin's Supermarkets and Wiseway Markets.

RV #2 took Allen and Jeff R. to stops in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. They kicked off the week at MEI headquarters in West Chester. MEI's Bank Note Recycler continues to be one of the "stars" of the UAA Tour and the MEI team were thrilled to see our mobile Innovation Centers showcasing their amazing cash handling and recycling technology. The rest of the week was devoted to visits with grocers - Fresh Grocers, Boyer's, Thomas Family Markets, Bill's Shop Rite, Mountain Fresh, Fetch's Foods, Village Supermarket IGA and Kilroy's Wonder Market - with the RV traveling the streets of Orwigsburg, Dallas, Moscow, Hunlock Creek, Plymouth, Ridgefield Park and Glenrock.

Day after day, we hear comments such as, "This is the coolest thing I've ever seen!" and "Every independent should take the time to tour the bus." Many people have been so wowed by what they've seen, they've called colleagues (even some from many miles away) to come visit the Innovation Center. People have often been surprised by what they've seen on the RVs and learned from their time spent with Jeff G., Derek, Allen and Jeff R.

We're excited to hit the road again on Monday and embark on Week Three of our tour. If you're interested in having one of our mobile Innovation Centers make a stop at your store or home office, please visit the NGA Utopia Across America website or call 866-296-2030!