Best Grocery Bagger Competition Returns to State Fair

Huron, SD – The South Dakota Retailers Association is once again partnering with the State Fair to bring the Best Bagger Competition to the Freedom Stage on Saturday, August 30 at 11:30 a.m.

Sponsored by Associated Wholesale Grocers, NW French & Associates, and Prairie Farms, the Best Bagger Competition features some of the quickest hands in the grocery business. Contestants will see how they “stack up” during this fun, fast-paced, head-to-head competition.

"The South Dakota State Fair is where South Dakotans let their talents shine, and that includes bagging groceries! We are proud to host the fastest baggers at the fair," said State Fair Manager Peggy Besch. "The competition brings a unique attraction for our amazing State Fair guests!"

Contestants will bag identical grocery orders and be judged on speed, technique, uniform bag weight, and presentation. Each participant will receive a cash prize and ‘swag’ bag, with first place earning $500 and an expenses-paid trip to compete at the National Grocers Association's National Bagging Competition in Las Vegas, N.V., where the grand prize is $10,000.

This is such a fun way to celebrate South Dakota’s grocery industry." said Retailers Association Deputy Executive Dir. Brooke Bohnenkamp. "I’m looking forward to seeing the state’s best baggers in action, and I hope you’ll be there also to cheer on your favorite grocery store bagger!"

Contestants competing in the South Dakota Best Bagger competition must spend more than 40 percent of their working time bagging groceries, must be of legal working age, and only one contestant per retail location is eligible. To register a contestant or learn more, visit sdra.org/bestbagger.

Make sure to mark your State Fair calendar for Saturday, August 30 at 11:30 a.m. on the Freedom Stage for fast-action, fun times, and an unforgettable competition!

The South Dakota Retailers Association is one of the nation’s oldest and largest trade organizations, representing 4,000 businesses in retail, grocery, hospitality, and trades. Visit us online at sdra.org or find us on Facebook.