Last updated on December 12th, 2024
In a Sept. 9 internal email to Gelson’s employees that he shared with The Shelby Report, President and CEO Rob McDougall announced his intent to retire at the end of the year. At that time, John Bagan will succeed him.
Per his email, McDougall attributed the decision to a variety of reasons, but “first and foremost it is all about family.”
“Given the draw of family and now that we have successfully transitioned ownership of the company to be part of the PPIH global retail family, I believe the timing is right for me to start my next stage as a retiree,” he said.
In his email, McDougall offered high praise for Bagan:
“Since joining Gelson’s more than six years ago, John has helped me and the rest of the executive team to navigate through some exceptional times, including the integration of our acquired stores, a sale of the company done 100 percent virtually and addressing the many challenges of COVID-19.
“Throughout all of it, I have appreciated his level-headed and approachable servant leadership and ability to lead strategic innovation efforts that built upon our historical strengths as a company.”
With Bagan’s promotion, the company will be making additional company changes in the upcoming weeks. Bagan will begin to assume his new responsibilities through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
In concluding his email, McDougall stated: “The future looks bright for Gelson’s. We have signed leases with new stores, with more coming. Our customer base is solid, and our entire team is positioned to continue building on the great legacy of Bernie and Gene Gelson.”
For more information about Gelson’s, visit gelsons.com/about-us/profile.
Bagan was recently named president in July. To read the full story presented by The Shelby Report, click here.
