The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) announced on Monday that Ken Scher, senior vice president of Business Development at Associated Supermarket Group (ASG), will be the 2026 recipient of the Jimmy Ostling Trade Relations Award.
The award, regarded as one of the council’s highest honors, recognizes industry veterans who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering collaboration between retailers, suppliers, and wholesalers within New Jersey’s $136 billion food distribution sector.
Scher, an industry veteran with over 45 years of experience, joined ASG in 2017. In his current role, he is credited with driving business development and strengthening the critical bond between independent retailers and their supply partners.
“Ken’s work has helped strengthen collaboration and engagement across all sectors of the food industry,” NJFC President & CEO Linda Doherty said. “His dedication makes him a most deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.”
Beyond his corporate achievements, Scher is being recognized for his profound impact on the philanthropic side of the grocery world. In 2013, he co-founded Friends of the Food Industry, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides emergency financial assistance to industry professionals facing personal hardships.
The organization operates with a unique efficiency:
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Zero “Red Tape”: Funds are often delivered within 48 hours of a peer’s request.
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Direct Impact: 100% of raised funds go directly to recipients.
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Track Record: Since its founding, the group has raised more than $1.5 million and distributed over $1.2 million in direct aid.
“In some cases, it is a matter of two days from when we hear of a problem and a check is in the person’s hand,” Scher noted regarding the group’s rapid response model.
The award ceremony will take place during the NJFC’s annual gathering in Atlantic City, an event that brings together the state’s most influential voices in food retail.
The Jimmy Ostling Trade Relations Award is named after the legendary industry figure who spent decades uniting various facets of the food business. Past recipients have included leaders from J&J Snack Foods, Wawa, and Kraft Heinz, highlighting the caliber of trade excellence the award represents.
The New Jersey Food Council continues to serve as the chief advocate for the state’s food industry, focusing on legislative issues, leadership development, and the advancement of trade partnerships.
