That is an impressive feat! Rocco Cammarota, an 18-year-old Publix employee from Georgia, won the 2026 National Grocers Association (NGA) Best Bagger Championship in Las Vegas last month.
He secured the $10,000 grand prize and the “Golden Grocery Bag” trophy after competing against the top baggers from across the country.
How the Competition Works
To win the title, contestants are judged on a strict point system that goes beyond just being fast:
- Speed (10 points): How quickly they can accurately pack the items.
- Proper Technique (10 points): Items must be arranged logically (e.g., heavy items on the bottom, crushables on top).
- Weight Distribution (5 points): The weight must be balanced evenly between the bags.
- Style and Attitude (5 points): Contestants are even judged on their presentation and customer service demeanor.
Rocco reportedly spent months training with his family to perfect his technique before the event. It was a strong year for Publix overall, as Elizabeth Ripperdan, an employee from an Alabama Publix, also placed in the top five
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