NAPMM offers opportunities for certifications and awards. Learn about opportunities available, and nominate Market Managers for these distinctions.
Congratulations!
2023 Market Manager of the Year
Paul Ruppert - Baltimore Public Markets Corporation
At the 2023 annual meeting of the National Association of Produce Market Managers (NAPMM), Paul Ruppert, CEO of the Baltimore Public Markets Corporation was awarded “Market Manager of the Year.” The honor is awarded to a retail or wholesale market manager who has demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to their respective organization.
Mr. Ruppert became the CEO of The Baltimore Public Market and Lexington Market in 2021. He was hired at a critical point for the system just as the organization’s $45 million redevelopment of Lexington Market was underway, the system was emerging from the pandemic, and there was significant transition of long-time employees of the organization.
.As a lifelong entrepreneur, Paul took on his role with enthusiasm and innovation. Upon his arrival, Paul worked diligently to leverage public and private partnerships to secure additional funding for the Baltimore Public Market system. He has created strong relationships across the city to ensure Lexington Market’s development is seen as a cornerstone of Baltimore’s Downtown development. Given the fiscal challenges post- pandemic, Paul made it a priority to reduce costs and reimagine organizational structure to better serve merchants and the public, while also reducing costs.
Mr. Ruppert stated: ”It is an honor to receive this award from my peers in the market community. The recognition should be shared by my entire team at Baltimore Public Markets, who work tirelessly to provide fresh food and economic opportunity to so many in Baltimore. For over 200 years the public markets have been serving fresh food to the residents of Baltimore. I am proud to play a role in a history that will continue for decades into the future.”
Before he arrived at the Market System, Paul successfully oversaw the re-development of Upper Georgia Avenue Main Street, which supported over 50 thriving small businesses through the pandemic. Paul spent nearly 30 years as an award-winning entrepreneur and business owner. He provides insight and leadership to other organizations through his service on several boards and acting as a mentor to aspiring business owners in the DC-Baltimore Metro area.
Mark Smith, NAPMM Board President, congratulated Mr. Ruppert, noting that Paul has led the Baltimore Public Market system with a focus on excellent customer service, positive vendor relations, and is constantly looking to improve the market system for the good of the city and its residents. “It’s a well-deserved recognition of his commitment and leadership,” he added.
Baltimore Public Markets and Lexington Market make up one of the only remaining Public Market Systems in the country. The system includes five markets spread throughout Baltimore, housing 120 vendors and welcoming over one million visitors per year. The organization operates both entities under one umbrella non- profit, managing the Markets on behalf of the City of Baltimore.
NAPMM is a trade association providing training, education, and networking opportunities to wholesale and retail markets across the United States. The 2023 annual meeting was held in Nashville, TN, and featured educational sessions on social media marketing, waste diversion, and grant opportunities, and included tours of Nashville’s local markets and related businesses.
Congratulations again Paul and thank you for all you do!