TJ Norrenberns and his family are creating legacy as local grocers Millstadt (IGA), Red Bud (IGA), Mascoutah (Betty Ann Market) and Highland (Tru Buy). TJ visited with our students last week to share not only his journey of working with his dad in the grocery business and then eventually taking over at 35 years in running the stores in a new way after his world view really changed.
TJ grew up in the business and when he met Christ at 35 years old, this had a huge impact on how he wanted to create a culture and team within his stores to serve the community.
TJ shared he was not there to impress the students of Gateway CEO, but to inspire them. He introduced the dynamics of what he considers a business approach that has a Secular World View vs a Christian World View.
Secular world view - Focus is money/profit. Goals to advance/climbing corporate ladder. Influenced by popular opinion.
Christian world view - Focus is on people. Creating an environment where everyone can thrive. God's word is the truth/never-changing and is the solid base for the company.
As he rolled out these world views, he pointed to several strong influences within the history of business owners in the US -
- George Washington, Founder of US - Worth $592M
- Truett Cathy, Founder of Chick-fil-a. A business is a reflection of the character of its leadership. $6.1B.
- Mary Kay Ash, Found of Mary Kay Cosmetics. Faith, family, and female empowerment. $3B
- David and Barbara Green - Founder of Hobby Lobby. Run your business in harmony with God. $13.7B
Each of these businesses started as small entrepreneurial opportunities and are now leaving a legacy for their families and beyond.
When TJ took over the family business, he also wanted to be intentional in how he developed his mission statement as a small hometown grocery store and also have his employees sign off on a code of conduct. Their vision is to be the Most Joyful, Prayerful, and Thankful Grocery Company on Earth.
While yes, they have the opportunity to serve the community with a necessity of food, they also strive to make a positive impact within their team. TJ is often referred to as Coach and he wants to lead with impact. One thing he reminded students about is while there are so many factors we each will face, the ONE thing we can each control, is our ATTITUDE. No one can take it. No one can alter it.
With an active morning of questions and answers, as a favorite hometown grocer, TJ also shared some great new products with our students and the trends of moving toward more proteins and healthier alternatives to food. It was definitely an inspiring morning of sharing the lens that can be created for each business owner and the joy he brings to life in sharing Christ and business principles together.
Thank you so much TJ for spending time with our Gateway CEO students.
