Henrico Food Lion manager earns regional store honor

Food Lion has named the manager of one of its Henrico grocery stores as its Store Manager of the Year for its Richmond/Norfolk Division.

Almedin Dokic, who manages the Food Lion at 11272 Patterson Avenue, earned the award after demonstrating "exceptional leadership and dedication to the Richmond community," according to company officials. The Richmond/Norfolk Division encompasses more than 170 stores throughout Virginia and North Carolina.   

Dokic is one of five store managers selected from more than 1,100 for the annual honor, which celebrates individuals who exemplify Food Lion’s values and ‘Count on me’ culture. Nominees bring the Food Lion brand, strategy and culture to life every day, company officials said, by setting high standards in leadership, store operations and community impact.

“Being named my Division’s Store Manager of the Year means a great deal to me,” said Dokic. “It’s not just an award, it’s recognition of the hard work, dedication and commitment my team and I bring every day to the customers we serve.” 

Dokic was born in Bosnia and immigrated to the United States in 1998 after a war took place in his home country. He has been a resident of the region ever since and began his Food Lion career in 2002 as a cashier. He has steadily advanced through a variety of roles, including dairy clerk, produce manager, grocery manager and assistant manager before becoming a store manager.

"Almedin brings Food Lion’s brand, strategy and culture to life daily while leading with dedication and putting customers first,” said Billy Zyliak, vice president of the Richmond/Norfolk Division for Food Lion. “He creates an inclusive environment where the team shares a common vision and empowers each associate to grow both personally and professionally."  

In recognition of Dokic’s commitment to his community, the company's hunger relief platform (Food Lion Feeds) donated the equivalent of 5,000 meals to Belmont Community Resource Services in Richmond. 

Dokic’s store also participates in Food Lion Feeds’ food rescue program, which donates unsaleable edible food to local feeding agencies to reduce waste and support neighbors in need.

“Nourishing our neighbors means giving people what they need to thrive with good food, dependable service and support when it matters most,” said Dokic. “It’s about strengthening our community and helping families build healthier, better lives.”