Lacks Enterprises and Cascade Engineering host employee day at Downtown Market

On Sunday, September 20, Lacks Enterprises is once again giving 300 employees a $100 gift certificate to the Downtown Market, for a limited-time shopping spree with their families.

Last year, Lacks had about 300 employees apply for the drawing to receive gift certificates. This year, more than 850 workers entered the drawing. Only employees who did not participate in last year’s event were eligible to receive the $100 gift certificates this year, and the list was narrowed down from there based on seniority.

Lacks plans to continue investing in the Downtown Market and its tenants over the course of four years. Their commitment started last year, with over $30,000 in gift certificates given to employees during the first annual “Lacks Employee Day” at the Market.

“Lacks Enterprises, Inc. is committed to the success of West Michigan’s local food ecosystem, the Downtown Market and its tenants, and we are very excited to share Lacks Employee Day for a second year in a row,” said Jim Green, executive director of human resources at Lacks Enterprises. “For those of us familiar with the Market, it's a fun day eating our way around. For the newcomers, it’s a great way to experience this great, unique venue where they can purchase high-quality, local products, while supporting local entrepreneurs.” 

Lacks is not only bringing back the idea for a second year, but invited other companies in the community to join in by rewarding their employees on the same day. Cascade Engineering is signed on to participate in the 2015 employee appreciation event, offering 50 employees the opportunity to win $50 gift certificates to the Market.

“We definitely want to encourage the community (starting with our own employees) to experience the uniqueness of a venue like this with so many fresh food options, at the same time helping to support the businesses that are housed at the Downtown Market,” said Sharon Darby, Cascade Engineering’s senior manager of environmental, safety & sustainability. “It was a natural decision for us to participate in this since it reinforces our Triple Bottom Line of People, Planet, and Profit, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.”

“Our food economy grows when we all work together to support local business. The Market staff, artisans, entrepreneurs and small business owners are thankful to have continued support of Lacks Enterprises," said Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market. “The fact that they are spreading the goodwill even further by inviting other community businesses to take part in this day is the sign of a positive trend emerging in our region.”