Southern Illinois News

State Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) has applauded local grocer Joe Koppeis who was recently honored by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) as the 2022 Illinois Retailer of the Year.

Bryant shared pictures of the award ceremony in an October 6 Facebook post. 

"I am in Chicago today celebrating with The Illinois Retail Merchants Association as they honor our very own Joe Koppeis," Bryant wrote in the post. "I hereby proclaim October 6, 2022 as Joe Koppeis Day in The Illinois 58th Senate District."

Rob Karr, President and CEO of The Illinois Retail Merchants Association, acknowledged Koppeis, owner go Groceries of Southern Illinois, for his hard work. In a press release, Karr said, "Joe is a true retail entrepreneur, who started by mopping floors at a grocery store as a teenager to becoming one of the most successful merchants in southern Illinois. Joe understands the importance our industry plays in people's lives and how investment can build stronger communities, and generously supports countless community programs and nonprofits."

Koppeis received the award at the association's 65th annual meeting. He called it an honor and attributed his success to both his family and his employees. In the release, Koppeis said, "I enjoy helping people, whether that's making sure customers have access to the food and medicine they need or providing jobs and opportunities to allow people to stay in Illinois. It's those accomplishments that excite me most, and I appreciate the Illinois Retail Merchants Association for their advocacy on behalf of retailers across Illinois to help make them happen."

Koppeis owns and operates more than 30 businesses in the southern region of the state, according to the release.