Get to Know Retail Representative Jim Lorino

In this Team Member Spotlight, we’re featuring Jim Lorino, one of our retail representatives at Bay Food Brokerage.

In his current role, he covers major food retailers throughout the Southeast. Jim’s various tasks in-store include merchandising, brand blocking, filling voids, communicating with department heads about upcoming promotional ads, and most importantly, representing Bay Food’s manufacturers. He joined the team in 2019.

“Jim is such a great person to work with,” said Debbie Freeman, Bay Food’s Retail Supervisor. “He understands the business, and it shows with the execution and results he gets on the store level within his territory. We can always count on him to assist when needed. He also has a great sense of humor, which makes it fun to be around him.”

Read on to learn more about Jim’s thoughts on working at Bay Food, his career background and his interests outside of work.

Working at Bay Food Brokerage

What do you like most about your current role and/or working at Bay Food Brokerage?

I really like the autonomy. It really is like running your own business.

What’s your favorite memory from working at Bay Food Brokerage?

Absolutely the 30th anniversary cruise Cammie and Chris took the company on.

If you’ve worked at Bay Food Brokerage for more than a few years, how has the company changed and evolved since you were hired?

The growth in such a short time has been incredible – from the hundreds for new items that have been added to the growth of the team. Pretty amazing.

Jim’s Career Path

Can you tell us a bit about your career and educational/professional background? 

I started my sales career working for a fine wine distributor from Boston, Massachusetts. From there, I moved to a distributor selling craft beer, wine and spirits. I worked with KeHE before moving to Florida and joining Bay Food in 2019.

What do you like most about working in the retail food industry? 

I really like witnessing the industry trends. I like observing buying habits of consumers and what they have in their grocery carts.

Personal Fun Facts 

What are some of your personal hobbies outside of work?

Sadly, I play in a men’s baseball league on Sundays with a goal of not getting hurt. I also love boating and going to the beach.

What was the best trip/vacation you ever took?

Last year as a Christmas present to our kids, we did a family cruise to Tortola, St. Thomas, Dominican Republic and The Bahamas. Great time and Beats shopping.

What’s your favorite sports team and/or sport?

I love baseball, and the New York Yankees have been my team since 1972.

Lightning Round

What’s your favorite:

Food or Cuisine: Italian

Movie: Rocky

Song: Bad by U2

Place: North Captiva Island

Book: A Good Walk Spoiled