Tahjae Welch Named Finalist For FMI Awards
Tahjae Welch – MarketPlace’s youngest store manager — is a finalist for the 2025 Food Industry Association [FMI] Store Manager Awards and the People’s Choice Award.
A spokesperson said, “The MarketPlace today announced an inspiring Bermudian success story: Tahjae Welch has not only become the youngest Store Manager in the company’s history at The Paget MarketPlace, but is now also a finalist for the prestigious FMI 2025 Store Manager Awards.
“This significant international recognition places Tahjae among the top store managers globally, a testament to his exceptional leadership, resilience, innovative approach, and dedication to both The MarketPlace and our community.
“In addition to being a finalist for the overall Store Manager Award, Tahjae is also a candidate for the FMI People’s Choice Award, an honor determined by public vote. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Bermudian public to directly support one of our own inspiring leaders.
“FMI [The Food Industry Association] is an influential U.S. based organization dedicated to advancing a safer, healthier, and more efficient food supply for consumers. Their annual awards are highly regarded, recognizing individuals and companies that demonstrate excellence and innovation in food retail operations worldwide.
“The MarketPlace is immensely proud of Tahjae’s achievements and calls upon the public to help him win the FMI People’s Choice Award. Voting is online and the deadline is this Tuesday, May 27th, at 11:59 pm ET. It only takes a few seconds to cast your vote and show your support.
“How to Vote for Tahjae – In less than 10 seconds:
- Visit the FMI Store Manager Awards – People’s Choice voting page: https://www.fmi.org/store-manager-awards/peoples-pick-award
- Scroll down and find Tahjae Welch; click on his profile.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the green “Submit” button.
- Ignore the yellow “Accept” button.
- Wait a moment for the website to confirm “100%” was sent.
“Tahjae Welch’s journey is truly remarkable. He began his career with The MarketPlace in 2016 as a merchandiser and cashier at the Dollar Store straight out of high school. His dedication saw him quickly progress through roles such as Grocery Manager, Second Assistant Store Manager, and Assistant Store Manager.
“In 2024, Tahjae made history by becoming The MarketPlace’s youngest-ever Store Manager, taking the helm at The Paget MarketPlace – his own neighbourhood store. A graduate of the company’s ‘Pathways to Leadership’ program, Tahjae has consistently demonstrated exceptional operational expertise. Under his guidance, the Paget MarketPlace has seen sales grow over the past year.”
Seth Stutzman, President of The MarketPlace said, “Tahjae personifies the leadership and dedication we foster at The MarketPlace. His ability to lead his team at Paget MarketPlace to such success, culminating in this international recognition, is a source of immense pride for our entire organization.
“All our MarketPlace teams work hard every day to provide the best value and we strive to lower prices for our customers, and Tahjae’s commitment to operational excellence is a key part of achieving those goals. His journey from an entry-level position to our youngest Store Manager is a testament to his dedication and the supportive environment we aim to provide. He is a true role model, not only within our company but for any young Bermudian showing that dedication and hard work can lead to outstanding achievements.”
Patrick Singleton, Head of Strategy at The MarketPlace and Tahjae’s nominator said, “Tahjae is a shining example of homegrown talent and leadership excellence at The MarketPlace. His journey is an inspiration, and his impact on store operations, customer satisfaction, and team morale is undeniable, particularly in implementing store improvements and fostering a positive work environment. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and this international recognition.”
The spokesperson said, “Tahjae’s leadership extends beyond financial results. He excels at communicating company goals to his team, mentoring associates, and has been key in implementing innovative in-store programs, such as expanding the international food section to cater to Bermuda’s diverse communities. He ensures that all store associates understand The MarketPlace’s commitment to excellence in sales and customer service. For a firsthand experience of great Bermudian service, we encourage shoppers to visit The Paget MarketPlace and meet Tahjae and his dedicated team.
“Tahjae is deeply involved in the community and participates in events like The MarketPlace Christmas Parade, encourages staff volunteerism, and is active with his Hamilton Parish Football Club. His accolades include Employee of the Year and BFA’s First Division Young Player of the Year. Support Tahjae and celebrate a young leader who is truly making a difference in Bermuda.”
You can vote for Mr Welch here on the FMI Store Manager Award website.
Exceptional young leader