Darin Schleicher's Unforgettable Customer Service Journey at Hy-Vee

Customers at the Brookings Hy-Vee know just who to turn to when they need help. They'll find the helpful smile and outstanding customer service Hy-Vee is known for in Darin Schleicher.

Schleicher, the produce manager at the Brookings Hy-Vee, has been creating an exceptional experience for both customers and co-workers for more than 30 years. That's why fellow employees, family members, customers, and Hy-Vee executives gathered recently to surprise Schleicher with the Legendary Customer Service Award.

This award recognizes exemplary achievement in providing service that exceeds customers' expectations. Only 14 winners were selected from more than 70,000 Hy-Vee employees across eight states.

"Darin's leadership, dedication, and passion for customers have contributed to Hy-Vee's success," said Jan Nichols, regional vice president for Hy-Vee's Sioux Falls region. "Darin is knowledgeable across all departments and a top trainer, fostering strong, smart, and exceptional customer service."

Schleicher first joined Hy-Vee in 1986, worked part-time for nearly three years, rejoined in 1991, and has been with Hy-Vee ever since. Over the years, he has served in various roles and is currently the produce manager. Being the first person many customers see when they enter the store, Darin strives for a high standard of service. He knows many customers' names, the names of their children, and their school activities. Schleicher's connections with customers are as genuine as his desire to help them, even if it means walking them to a product on the other end of the store. He is also a mentor to co-workers, training many with care and helping them start strong at Hy-Vee.

"Darin elevates the entire store's standard of service, inspiring others to follow his lead and make sure every customer feels valued, respected, and welcomed," wrote Jared Johnson, assistant manager of store operators at the Brookings Hy-Vee, in Schleicher's nomination.

Candidates are nominated for the Legendary Customer Service Award by their co-workers, and winners are selected by a panel of Hy-Vee's top officers. Nominations are evaluated on the employee's overall contributions in nine areas: passion for customer service, attitude, initiative, teamwork, problem-solving skills, dedication to Hy-Vee fundamentals, communication skills, professional image, and self-confidence.

Hy-Vee's Chairman and CEO Jeremy Gosch said Schleicher demonstrates exactly the type of caring commitment to others that Hy-Vee leaders had in mind when the award was established in 2006.

"Darin is an outstanding example of the Hy-Vee fundamentals, going above and beyond to serve customers every day," Gosch said. "This award was created to honor and celebrate those Hy-Vee employees who go the extra mile to help others, and Darin is certainly deserving."

Schleicher and the other 2025 recipients will be inducted into Hy-Vee's Customer Service Hall of Fame and receive a Legendary Customer Service name badge and a custom-designed ring. Recipients will also get a crystal trophy, a free trip of their choice, and have their image displayed on a Hy-Vee semi-trailer that stops at their store for celebration.