The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) has announced it is naming its prestigious 2026 President’s Scholarship Award after Jim McCaffrey III, President and CEO of McCaffrey’s Markets.
The honor, revealed at the NJFC’s annual holiday celebration on Dec. 3, recognizes McCaffrey’s three decades of leadership, advocacy, and dedicated service to the New Jersey grocery industry. Each year, the scholarship is named after a respected business leader who has made significant contributions to the state’s food sector.
McCaffrey has been at the helm of McCaffrey’s Markets since 1980, overseeing its central commissary and a chain of eight stores across New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. Under his leadership, the company has become a strong regional presence and a major employer.
NJFC President & CEO Linda Doherty praised McCaffrey’s character and influence.
“Jim is a noted ‘class act’ and an innovative leader who has been a fierce advocate of the grocery industry and a trusted friend to many,” Doherty said. “It is our personal honor to recognize Jim’s ongoing legacy by naming this year’s Presidential Scholarship Award in his honor.”
McCaffrey’s involvement with the NJFC spans 30 years on the Board of Directors, including a three-year term as board chairman. His tenure has been instrumental in numerous legislative victories and organizational improvements.
Among his most enduring contributions is his role as an architect behind the creation of the NJFC Educational Scholarship Fund, where he continues to dedicate his time to selecting winners and leading the Student Award reception. He also played a crucial part in developing the NJFC Leadership Development program, which focuses on educating and training the next generation of food retail leaders in policy and leadership.
McCaffrey previously received the 2011 NJFC Achievement Award and served for many years as the organization’s Governance Chair. The President’s Scholarship Award, now in its third year, previously honored Doherty and the late Bill Sumas.
