If you ask our associates what makes Americold different, many will tell you the same thing: it’s the people.
Across our global network, our teams keep food moving safely and reliably through the supply chain every day. That work takes skill, teamwork, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way. We know that our success depends on creating an environment where associates feel respected, recognized, and proud of the role they play.
That’s why appreciation is such an important part of life at Americold.
Recognition That Starts with People
For Brandon Shipley, General Manager of Automation in Russellville Elmira, appreciation starts with seeing associates as people first.
When I think about recognition and associate appreciation, I don’t think about KPIs or production numbers I think about people. I’ve seen what happens when someone feels truly seen, not just for what they do, but for who they are.
Shipley says the moments that shape culture most often go beyond the day’s workload.
“I remember one associate who had just bought their first home,” he said. “That recognition wasn’t about productivity; it was about celebrating a major life milestone they had worked so hard for. The pride on their face was unforgettable. In that moment, our workplace felt like a community.”
Moments like that help create a workplace where people feel supported beyond their role. And to Brandon, that’s what associate appreciation really means.
A Leadership Mindset That Puts People First
That philosophy is something leaders across Americold strive to bring to life every day. For Alana Horton, Director of Human Resources, Global Development & Automation, appreciation is closely connected to how leaders support their teams and create opportunities for growth.
Associate appreciation at Americold is much more than a single week of recognition. It reflects how we show up for our associates every day through meaningful engagement, strong leadership, and a culture that values the people behind our operations - our Americold Advantage.
A big part of that approach is servant leadership; a mindset focused on supporting and empowering associates.
“Servant leadership is foundational to how we show appreciation year-round,” Horton explained. “It’s about leading with humility, listening first, and recognizing that our role as leaders is to support, empower, and remove barriers.”
That mindset also shows up in the ways Americold invests in its people, from development initiatives like Individual Development Plans to tools like the Americold Proud recognition program, which allows associates to recognize each other’s contributions across the organization.
A Culture Associates Are Proud to Be Part Of
Associate Appreciation Week gives Americold teams around the world a chance to celebrate the people behind the work. But the bigger goal is something that lasts all year long: creating a workplace where recognition, connection, and pride are part of everyday life.
Each year, teams across the company celebrate Associate Appreciation Week, a moment to recognize the people who power our operations.
The week is celebrated annually timed around Associate Appreciation Day, bringing together teams through site events, team recognition, and opportunities for leaders and peers to highlight the everyday impact of our associates.
As Bryan Verbarendse, President, Americas, shared during the week:
Our greatest Americold Advantage is our people – the individuals who show up every day to serve our customers with pride. Your commitment to safety, reliability, and teamwork is what drives our success. Thank you for the dedication and excellence you bring to Americold.
Throughout the week, sites found meaningful ways to celebrate their teams - from handwritten Above & Beyond notes from leaders to peer-nominated awards and “Americold Proud Moments” boards that highlighted teamwork, safety, and everyday wins.
Each day also focused on a different way associates make a difference:
- You Keep Us Safe
- You Serve Our Customers
- You Strengthen Our Teams
- You Improve Our Operations
- You Shape Our Culture
Photos shared from sites around the world captured the pride in our work, and the people who make it possible:
While Associate Appreciation Week is a special moment each year, many Americold leaders will tell you that it’s really a reflection of something that happens every day.
Because when people feel valued for who they are, they bring their full energy and commitment to the work that keeps food moving around the world.
And that’s what it means to be Americold Proud.
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