Barry Carlson’s Long Road with Hy-Vee Comes Full Circle in Cherokee

When a familiar Hy-Vee truck rolled into Cherokee, Iowa, recently, it wasn’t just another grocery delivery—it was a homecoming decades in the making.

Behind the wheel was Barry Carlson, a longtime Hy-Vee driver whose face now graces the side of one of the company’s semi-trailers. After 40 years on the road, Barry received one of the company’s highest honors: becoming the face of Hy-Vee’s “helpful smile” campaign on a moving tribute that spans nine Midwestern states.

But this wasn’t just about a photo on a trailer. Barry had the chance to drive that very truck into his hometown store, where friends, coworkers, family, and corporate leaders from Hy-Vee were waiting to welcome him back. As a special keepsake, Barry was given a miniature replica of the truck that now carries his image across the region.

Source: Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee has revived its long-standing tradition of honoring employees who’ve dedicated more than four decades of service. Barry is among 18 team members whose photos are now featured on the sides of Hy-Vee trucks. These rigs are more than just delivery vehicles—they’re a rolling tribute to the commitment and care of some of the company’s most loyal employees.

As they make their way across Iowa and beyond, these trucks will deliver more than groceries—they’ll carry the story of people like Barry Carlson, whose “helpful smile” has been part of the journey for 40 years and counting.

Source: The Trucker
Images Source: Hy-Vee