CHARLOTTE, NC - Industry catalysts, innovators, and visionaries—these are the architects that build our fresh produce industry into the progressive, vital, and passionate force that it is today. Time and time again, they inspire us to new heights while strengthening our roots by being the connective tissue that binds us all together. Mark Hilton is one of these remarkable individuals.

This year, it was our honor to present Mark with the 2023 Besties Lifetime Achievement Award. Bringing nearly 50 years to his fresh produce tenure, Mark is an example of how one person can inspire the many through his own hard work, mentorship, and dedication. And, while we thank Mark for all that he has done, Mark, true to form, shared that he is the thankful one.

“I have had the good fortune to work with many great leaders and mentors during my 47-year career!” Mark expressed. “When I reflect on those influences, I have to say that those that were hard on me and challenged me the most helped shaped me into the leader I have become. What I am most proud of is the team that worked alongside me, both in the office and in our stores. To see them grow and have the same passion for produce as I have is very rewarding. When it comes to what I cherish most about my time in the industry, it is definitely all the friendships I have made over the years. Had I not been in this industry, I would have never met my best friend and wife Stephanie!”

Regarding great pieces of advice he has received and continues to share with those in the industry, Mark said: Come to work ready and lead by example. Also, more is not better, better is better.

Mark cut his teeth in grocery at Safeway as a Courtesy Clerk in 1975, working his way up in various retail stores. He started his career with Harris Teeter in 1992 as Manager of Produce Merchandising, and was then promoted to Director of Produce and Floral in 1995 and, in 2001, was named Vice President of Produce and Floral.

“When I first started my career on the weekends as a part-time clerk in the grocery store, what started as 8–12 hours a week quickly turned into a full-time job. I learned early on that if you worked hard and were dedicated, you were given the opportunity to do just about anything you wanted to,” Mark reflected. “I embraced this and took on multiple assignments. Having done just about every job in the grocery store, working in and with produce was the most gratifying. When I think back on what surprised me about this industry, I would never have imagined I’d be given the opportunity to visit farms, vineyards, and orchards around the world, and learn from farmers all the complexity it takes to grow produce and bring it to market.”

Not only was Mark instrumental in the development and rebranding of Harris Teeter’s produce departments and HT Farmers Market, but he helped build a robust local and regional produce program and developed the company’s Green Thumb Expert training program.

While this story does not even begin to scratch the surface of Mark’s impact and contributions to the industry, I am still so happy to share it. Honoring Mark was an honor to us.

Mark, thank you for all that you have done for fresh produce!