History
Larry is a fourth generation retailer. His great-grandfather Sam J. Elias was a peddler who went door-to-door and farm-to-farm throughout Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa around the turn of the 20th century. In 1926, Sam started The Economy Store, a general store in Persia, Iowa. Eventually it became known as Elias Super Market. Larry, like his father Larry F. and grandfather Floyd, followed in Sam's footsteps by working in this store as a child and throughout his college years. From his father he learned a love for customers. His grandfather Floyd taught him how to garden. Many of the vegetables they grew were sold in their store. From his grandmother Adele and mother Dorothy he learned to appreciate great food and its importance in bringing people together to celebrate life's occasions.
Larry attended the University of Iowa and is a graduate of the Tippie College of Business with a degree in Marketing. He is a member of the John Maxwell Team and is a John C. Maxwell certified coach, teacher, trainer and speaker.
Larry has had an extensive career in managing supermarket operations from Fortune 500 to leading independent supermarket operators. Throughout his career he has excelled in achieving top financial results and in developing leaders. Adding value to the lives of others and helping them reach their potential is Larry's passion and purpose.
Get in touch
We know that using a consultant is new for many of our clients. That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.
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Referrals
Kathy Siefken
Executive Director at Nebraska Grocery Industry Association
I've worked with Larry Elias for over 20 years. He is thoughtful, efficient and thorough in any project he takes on. Larry works well with others and quickly earns their respect. His knowledge base is very broad. He is a "quick study" and has the ability to research and come up to speed quickly on issues with which he is not familiar. Larry served as Chairman of our Legislative Committee, and as a leader, helped guide the organization through changes that were taking place within the state and within the industry. His honesty and integrity are of the highest caliber.
David Smith
Chief Executive officer at associated wholesale grocers
I had the opportunity to work with Larry while he was with B&R. I found him to be a very smart merchant and marketer that clearly understands the substantial challenges facing today’s independent grocer. His positive attitude and problem solving skills made it a pleasure to work with him.
I became very excited then when Larry told me that he made the choice to become a consultant and provide assistance to independent grocers. His skills and knowledge of the business will provide small to medium size Grocers access to successful strategies and tactics that can be real difference makers in today’s competitive environment. He has made a meaningful impact at several companies already and I’m confident that will expand quickly as other Grocers hear of his services.
I wish him the very best in his new role and would recommend him highly to anyone looking to secure professional assistance to improve their operations. I’m glad he felt led to share his knowledge and skills with independents and look forward to hearing of the successes of his efforts.
Kevin Murphy
Chief marketer, food chain communications
In today’s grocery business, there are labels & catch phrases everywhere--farm-to-table, local, sustainable, GMO-free, free range, green, etc.--all deployed in an attempt to woo the consumer. Yet, it is astonishing how few understand the path a product takes from conception to consumption. Larry Elias does. He knows how to bring sense to all of this and yet still drive sales, not through deception but through authenticity. In a market that seems to be transitioning from one ruled by mere size to one ruled by knowledge, Larry is a member you must have on your team. In a word…Integrity!
“Larry, Thank you for your presentation at our event. Your presentation was very engaging, and everyone walked away with a valuable piece of advice. I had to chuckle when you reminded us that the universe is composed of others, because sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own feelings and concerns, that we forget we are one small part of something much larger. I personally appreciated your approach to getting things done – do it right now, today. Thank you again for your time, and sharing your expertise, it was very much appreciated.” —Gabrielle Garrean, USPS Central Plains District
"Larry spoke at our men's retreat with energy and enthusiasm. He related to each of us on a personal level and that was appreciated by our attendees."—Pastor Rich Balvanz, King of Kings Lutheran Church
"Our workshop was a great success due to the support of people like Larry. This event was designed to inform people including mail center employees, supervisors, managers, marketing managers and data processing managers. We are pleased to say this goal has been achieved. Your contribution greatly enhanced the success of the conference.”—Betty Cummings and Kerry Kowalski, Lincoln Postal Customer Council Co-Chairs