The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) isn’t just stocking the shelves this year—it’s filling the boardroom with a blend of seasoned pros and fresh energy. At its annual meeting the association officially re-elected Jason Read of Wawa as board chair, signaling a year of steady leadership and “Shorti” hoagie-sized ambitions.
The meeting was a celebration of a banner year. The NJFC reported record-breaking numbers for new members and sponsors, proving that in the Garden State, the food industry is more connected than ever.
Joining Read at the helm is board vice chair Mike Styer of ACME/Kings, continuing a partnership that has successfully navigated the industry through evolving consumer habits and supply chain twists.
“I am always inspired by the way our Board meets challenges,” NJFC President & CEO Linda Doherty said, who was recently named to Governor Mikie Sherrill’s Interdisciplinary Advisory Task Force. “With new faces on our officer team and a Board strengthened by new voices, I am highly optimistic about the future.”
The newly elected officer slate includes:
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Chair: Jason Read, Wawa
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Vice Chair: Mike Styer, ACME/Kings
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Associate Vice Chair: Gary Capozzi, Pepsi Beverages Company
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Treasurer: Ron Murphy, Murphy’s Fresh Markets
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Secretary: Perry Blatt, Village Supermarkets
The highlight of the afternoon was a standing ovation for Mike Rothwell of Pennington Quality Market. After nearly 20 years of crunching numbers as Treasurer, Rothwell is stepping down from his financial post (though he’ll remain on the Board). To honor his two decades of service, the NJFC announced the Michael Rothwell PQM Scholarship, a $5,000 annual award designed to help the next generation of food industry leaders get their start.
The year 2026 looks to be a busy one in Trenton. With a new administration under Governor Sherrill, the NJFC is focused on “mission-critical” advocacy. The council plans to work closely with the state to ensure that new policies don’t have “unintended consequences” that could raise grocery bills or disrupt the flow of your favorite Jersey tomatoes.
“It is essential that the perspectives of our industry—from the checkout line to the warehouse—are part of the conversation as the new Administration sets its agenda,” Read noted.
