Kefir-Leader Lifeway Foods CEO Julie Smolyansky Honored in Progressive Grocer's Top Women in Grocery Awards

Industry award recognizes her visionary leadership and significant impact on the 
functional beverage and wellness sectors

MORTON GROVE, Ill., June 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWAY)("Lifeway" or "the Company), a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products that support the microbiome, proudly announced today that its President and CEO, Julie Smolyansky, has been honored as one of Progressive Grocer's 2025 Top Women in Grocery.

The Top Women in Grocery award, one of the most respected honors in the retail and consumer packaged goods industry, celebrates female executives who are redefining the grocery space through innovation, business excellence, and mentorship. Julie's selection underscores her significant impact not only on Lifeway's growth, but on the broader wellness movement shaping today's functional food and beverage culture.

Under Julie's leadership, Lifeway has experienced consistent and impressive growth, driven by a clear vision and commitment to innovation and purpose. This momentum led to a Company record $186.8 million in net sales for 2024, representing a 17% year-over-year increase. Her strategic focus on product innovation and experiential brand marketing has driven Lifeway's growth attracting a new generation of health-conscious consumers. Recent product innovations include the Flavor Fusions line featuring 10 flavors inspired by global trends and consumer insights, and the Probiotic Smoothie + Collagen line – the first probiotic collagen smoothie with kefir cultures to hit the market – with four delicious flavors packed with 5 grams of collagen in each serving. These launches reflect Julie's commitment to delivering functional, convenient and delicious products that meet the evolving consumer needs.

Julie spearheads Lifeway's mission to uplift communities and champion wellness for all. Her devotion to serving others through impactful donations and hands-on volunteering reflects a deep passion for helping people. From sponsoring yoga and mindfulness events to supporting wildfire recovery efforts in California, Julie ensures Lifeway shows up when it matters, delivering on its commitment to make a meaningful difference in the world.

"It's an incredible honor to be recognized among the Top Women in Grocery," said Julie Smolyansky, President and CEO of Lifeway Foods. "Women bring powerful gut intuition and empathy to leadership, qualities that drive innovation and foster resilience. I'm proud to stand alongside so many inspiring women who are paving the way for the next generation of leaders in food and retail. This recognition is also a reflection of the incredible Lifeway team – their passion, creativity and dedication continue to fuel our purpose every single day."

Julie recently led a week of high-profile events in Chicago, including establishing National Kefir Day and organizing an incredible Lifeway-themed drone show over Lake Michigan celebrating the Company's hometown as the "Kefir Capital of the World." The National Kefir Day event at the Illinois Medical District brought together politicians and health professionals to recognize the brand's cultural, nutritional and economic impact.

Lifeway is not only the #1 supplier of kefir in the United States, but also continues to expand its global footprint. With key international markets in Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and France, the company is strategically positioned to further its reach. This expansion reflects the increasing global demand for gut-friendly, functional wellness products, and Lifeway's ability to meet that demand with high-quality, better-for-you offerings.

As the company evolves, Lifeway remains at the forefront of empowering people everywhere to nourish their bodies and love their guts.

To learn more about Lifeway's products and mission, visit lifewayfoods.com.

About Lifeway Foods, Inc.
Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable kefir, the Company also produces a variety of cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at lifewayfoods.com.

Perceptual Advisors
Dan Tarman
Email: [email protected]

Derek Miller 
Vice President of Communications, Lifeway Foods
Email: [email protected] 

General inquiries:
Lifeway Foods, Inc.
Phone: 847-967-1010
Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Lifeway Foods, Inc.