Ithaca, New York-based Rosie announced the hiring of Lori Brown as SVP of industry and customer development.
In this role, Brown will focus on the expansion of Rosie’s industry leading e-commerce service and growth of Rosie’s independent retailer media network, reporting to Merrick Rosner, chief revenue officer.
“Lori’s enthusiasm for independent grocers and wholesalers is legendary,” said Nick Nickitas, CEO and co-founder of Rosie. “She brings years of experience and a passion for delivering delight to shoppers, retailers and organizations across the U.S. She is a tireless champion of our industry and a true servant leader. As Rosie continues its rapid growth, we couldn’t be more excited for Lori to join our team.”
Prior to joining Rosie, Brown was at Post Consumer Brands for 18 years, most recently as regional VP in the West region, responsible for major accounts including URM Stores, Associated Food Stores, CERTCO, Brookshire Brothers and Stater Bros. Markets.
She has a master’s degree from USC’s Marshall School of Business and serves on several boards including California Grocers Association, Washington Food Industry Association and The Illuminators. Brown is also acting president, Boy Scouts of America, Pacific Harbors Council.
“I’ve watched Rosie closely over the last few years and have admired the team’s care for locally owned independents and wholesalers. I’ve been able to work directly with them from my previous work at Post and I look forward to bringing my experience, network and mission to Rosie,” Brown said.
“I grew up in a small town and the local food center was the heart of our community; completely invested not only in their business but in the people. Independent grocers have more obstacles to overcome than larger chain accounts, but they figure out a way to get it done. They are scrappy and resourceful. Rosie helps independent grocers differentiate and compete.”
Rosie’s growth over the last few years has been due to a deep focus on independent grocery retailers, their wholesaler partners and national CPG brands. Today, nearly 300 retailers representing close to a thousand stores have selected Rosie as their trusted e-commerce and mobile platform.
Ray Sprinkle, president of URM Stores and current chair of ROFDA, said, “Lori has spent her career demonstrating her passion for ensuring the success of the retailer. Combining Rosie’s technology with Lori’s experience and knowledge in the industry, it is the perfect fit for bringing enhanced value to the independent retailers we all serve. URM is excited to continue our relationship with her and Rosie.”
In early 2021, Rosie completed a $10 million round of Series A funding, enabling the team to introduce new tools to enhance the shopper and retailer experience, launch new products to provide an omnichannel journey for shoppers at home, in-store or on-the-go, further invest in monetization opportunities to increase retailer profitability and recruit talent to accelerate product development and expansion across the independent grocery space.
For more information, visit rosieapp.com.
