LEONARDTOWN, Md. — Jon Hardesty, store manager of the Food Lion in Leonardtown, has been named the 2024 Ralph W. Ketner Store Manager Excellence Award winner, the company’s highest honor for store managers.
Food Lion announced the recognition in a press release on Feb. 10, 2025.
Hardesty, who manages the Food Lion at 40955 Merchant Lane, was selected from more than 1,100 store managers across the company’s 10-state operating area. The award, named after Food Lion co-founder Ralph W. Ketner, recognizes store managers who provide outstanding leadership, customer service, and community engagement.
“This honor truly reflects the incredible team I have the privilege of working with each day,” Hardesty said. “I am honored to receive this award and grateful to be part of an organization that values community, integrity, and professional growth.”
As part of his recognition, Food Lion will donate 20,000 meals in Hardesty’s name to Leonardtown Church of the Nazarene Outreach Ministry through its Food Lion Feeds hunger-relief program.
Hardesty, who joined Food Lion in 2005, leads a team of 160 associates and emphasizes respect, professional growth, and exceptional customer service. He is also deeply involved in community service, supporting various organizations in the Leonardtown area.
In addition to Hardesty’s national recognition, four other store managers were honored with Divisional Store Manager Excellence Awards:
- Mid-Atlantic Division: Josh Carver – Roxboro, N.C.
- Southern Division: Alex Clever – Spartanburg, S.C.
- Central Division: Toby Pentecost – Scottsville, Ky.
- Richmond/Norfolk Division: Christian Dendy – Elizabeth City, N.C.
Meg Ham, president of Food Lion, praised Hardesty and the other honorees for their dedication.
“Store managers are the heartbeat of Food Lion,” Ham said. “Jon has made a positive impact on the lives of associates and customers by creating an environment where everyone is welcomed and appreciated. By showing care for his community and helping his associates thrive, Jon’s leadership is felt inside and outside his store.”
Kristen Riley, vice president of Food Lion’s Northern Division, highlighted Hardesty’s commitment to both his team and his community.
“Jon’s recognition as Store Manager of the Year is a testament to his passion for his associates, customers, and for Food Lion,” Riley said. “Jon is passionate about nourishing his neighbors in Leonardtown, and his associates are equally dedicated to this mission. That commitment is demonstrated in how they serve customers, help decrease food insecurity, and take care of their community every day.”
All five honorees were recognized for leading successful stores, supporting their teams, and inspiring others in their communities.
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I worked with Jon a few years ago He’s a real good dude, and I’m glad he won this.