UNFI Celebrates 2026 Elite Drivers and Driver of the Year Winners

September 23, 2026          5 minute read

After traveling nearly 130 million miles over the past year, more than 1,100 UNFI drivers have been recognized as 2026 Elite Drivers.

The annual recognition honors drivers who set the standard for safety, service, professionalism, and customer relationships while bringing UNFI's values, to life.

Each year, UNFI's 2,500 truck drivers travel millions of miles to deliver groceries to retail locations across North America. Their work helps fulfill UNFI's purpose to deliver food and help create a better future for everyone we serve.

Many of these drivers have been with UNFI for decades. Some began their careers in our warehouses before transitioning to the road. Others have served the same distribution center (DC) for years, becoming familiar faces in the communities they support.

Elite Drivers build strong customer relationships while helping customers receive products reliably and keep their shelves stocked.

"Every day, our drivers help customers receive the products they need safely and reliably. The Elite Driver program demonstrates our ongoing commitment to celebrating the important role drivers play in serving customers and suppliers across North America." said Nick Selders, Vice President of Transportation and Facilities.

During UNFI's recent Warehouse & Driver Appreciation Week celebration, Elite Drivers were entered into a drawing for the Elite Driver of the Year award, which includes a monetary award.

The winners' distribution centers also received a new premium tractor with enhanced driver amenities, reflecting UNFI's ongoing investment in the associate experience and support for transportation teams serving customers and suppliers across North America.

This year's Elite Driver of the Year winners are Malakai Bukalidi, NorCal Produce Distribution Center, Calif. and Jarvis Leintz, Fargo Distribution Center, N.D.

Elite Drivers are being recognized for helping customers and suppliers succeed, supporting their fellow associates, and bringing UNFI's values to life in communities across North America.