Apple Valley’s Lunds & Byerlys Honored as 2025 Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year
Provided by Lunds & Byerly/Facebook
APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA - Lunds & Byerlys in Apple Valley has been recognized as the 2025 Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year for the Twin Cities region by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Minnesota Grown program in partnership with the Minnesota Grocers Association. The honor highlights the store’s exceptional commitment to promoting locally grown and produced goods, strengthening the connection between Minnesota farmers and consumers.
The annual Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year awards celebrate retailers across the state who go above and beyond to showcase the bounty of Minnesota agriculture. Winners are chosen based on their support for local farmers, the variety of Minnesota products they offer, and their innovative use of advertising, social media, and in-store events to highlight these goods.
Supporting Local Farmers and Communities
Lunds & Byerlys stood out for its expansive selection of Minnesota-grown foods and its creative initiatives to promote local products. The store’s offerings exemplify its dedication to quality and community partnerships, from farm-fresh produce to meats, dairy, and baked goods.
According to a Facebook post by the store, "The judging committee was particularly impressed by your innovative displays, unique farm partnerships, and the broad selection of Minnesota Grown products you featured."
Building a Stronger Local Economy
The Minnesota Grown program, in partnership with the Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA), emphasizes the importance of locally sourced foods not just for shoppers but for farmers and the broader economy. MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen applauded this year’s winners for their leadership.
“When shoppers have access to more foods grown and raised by their neighbors, it’s a win for everyone—Minnesota’s farmers, grocers, and communities alike,” Petersen said.
Innovative Efforts Recognized
Retailers like Lunds & Byerlys were commended for their creative engagement with customers. Rachel Wandrei, Minnesota Grown Marketing Manager, highlighted the innovative strategies employed by participating grocers. “Stores went all out this year, from sharing recipes with local ingredients on social media to hosting events where customers could meet their farmers,” Wandrei said.
This approach not only boosted sales across departments but also strengthened community ties and supported local farmers.
A Statewide Celebration of Local Agriculture
Each regional winner, including Lunds & Byerlys, will receive exclusive rights to use the Minnesota Grown Retailer of the Year branding in their marketing. They will also be recognized at an upcoming Minnesota Grocers Association event in the spring, where their efforts will be celebrated by peers in the industry.
Congratulations to our local Lunds & Byerlys store, which continues to demonstrate its leadership in supporting local agriculture and fostering a vibrant local economy. The store’s dedication to quality and innovation ensures that residents have access to the best Minnesota has to offer—right in their own backyard.
Written by: Will Wight