2008 Iowa Best Bagger Contest

Preparations are underway for the 2008 Iowa Best Bagger Contest, which is hosted annually by the Iowa Grocery Industry Association at the Iowa State Fair.

This year’s competition will be held Friday, August 8, at its traditional location within the state fairgrounds – the Terribles Lakeside Casino Stage. It will begin at 1 p.m. with three preliminary heats consisting of six contestants being conducted to determine the final. The six baggers who score the most points in the preliminary heats will compete against each other in the final round.

A true fan favorite at the state fair, the Iowa Best Bagger Contest draws more than 400 spectators every year who watch grocery baggers from all over the state battle for the title of “Iowa’s Best Bagger.” Cash prizes are awarded to the top three finishers. The overall champion also earns a trip for two to the National Best Bagger Competition in Las Vegas, which holds a grand prize of $2,000.

Contestants bag identical grocery orders, consisting of no more than 40 commonly purchased items, into three plastic grocery bags. They are scored primarily on speed and weight distribution between bags, but individual style and proper item arrangement are also judged.

Posters providing details about the event have been sent out to all retail members of the Iowa Grocery Industry Association. Please have all interested employees review the poster, which has information regarding eligibility requirements and registration procedures.

An entry form for the 2008 Iowa Best Bagger Contest can be downloaded by clicking on the link below. More information about the event and a registration form will also be made available in upcoming issues of the Scanner newsletter.

For more information, contact the IGIA Office at 515-270-2628 or 800-383-3663.

2008 Iowa Best Bagger Poster (PDF – 541 KB)

2008 Iowa Best Bagger Contest Entry Form (PDF – 138 KB)