Safeway evp joins CGA Hall of Achievement

SAN RAMON, Calif. The California Grocers Association announced that Larree Renda, evp, chief strategist and administrative officer of Safeway, became the first woman to be inducted into the association's Educational Foundation Hall of Achievement on March 11.

The Hall of Achievement was created in 1993 and recognizes California grocery retailers and suppliers who have contributed substantially to the advancement of the grocery industry.

Renda was the first woman and youngest person in Safeway history to be promoted to senior vp in 1994, and subsequently became the company’s first female evp in 1999.

In her acceptance remarks, Renda said she was “overwhelmed and honored” in being the first woman to receive the award. “I am very grateful,” she said, “But it’s not that I’m so special. What’s special is our industry and how it is a place that provides real opportunity for success for all people whether they are men or women, young or old, educated or not.” The Safeway executive paid homage to previous Hall of Achievement inductees saying “being in such prestigious company is incredible.” She also recognized her family, co-workers and the grocery industry for their role in her personal success.