National Honor Recognizes Barnes Road QFC Store Manager: Congratulations to Annelise Thom!

QFC is proud to announce that Annelise Thom, Store Leader of the West Hills QFC on Barnes Road, has been named a 2026 Top Women in Grocery (TWIG) Store Manager Award winner by Progressive Grocer, one of the grocery industry’s leading publications. The prestigious national award recognizes outstanding grocery leaders whose innovation, operational excellence and dedication to developing associates are shaping the future of food retail.

Under Thom’s leadership, the West Hills store delivered outstanding results in 2025, including an increase in total sales while maintaining one of the highest rated operational standards in the QFC division. Through disciplined execution, thoughtful labor planning and a strong focus on shrink management, her team consistently exceeded operational standards while improving the customer experience through enhanced service, stronger pickup performance and friendly service.

Beyond operational excellence, Thom has earned a reputation as one of QFC’s most trusted leaders. She is frequently called upon to serve as acting District Manager, providing leadership and continuity across multiple stores, and was selected as a Certified Results-Driven Leadership Trainer, helping develop current and future leaders throughout her district.

Within her store, Thom intentionally cultivates a culture of belonging through creative team-building initiatives, mentorship opportunities and daily practices that encourage associates to bring their authentic selves to work. From leadership mentorship displays to recognition walls celebrating associates’ lives outside of work, she has created an environment where every team member feels seen, supported and encouraged to grow.

Thom is also committed to continuous learning and leadership development. She has been nominated for QFC’s GenNext leadership program, earned her Retail Management Certification and regularly mentors emerging leaders preparing for advancement within the company.

Outside of QFC, Thom regularly participates in local farmers and artisan markets throughout the Pacific Northwest while supporting nonprofit organizations through product donations benefiting community fundraising efforts, ecological initiatives and organizations serving vulnerable populations.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Thom. “The most rewarding part of leadership is helping people discover their potential and creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. I’m inspired daily by my team that supports one another readily and is always eager to learn more. This award reflects everything we’ve accomplished together, and I’m grateful to be part of an organization that believes in investing in our incredible people and strengthening the communities we serve.”

The Top Women in Grocery awards celebrate exceptional women who are making a lasting impact through leadership, innovation, operational excellence and community service. As a 2026 Store Manager Award recipient, Thom joins an outstanding group of grocery professionals from across the country recognized for advancing the grocery industry while creating meaningful opportunities for associates and the communities they serve.

Annelise’s store is located at 7525 SW Barnes Rd, 503-203-0027. For more information on QFC, visit www.qfc.com .