Providence, Rhode Island-based United Natural Foods Inc. has appointed David Best as president and CEO of retail, effective Aug. 17.
Best will be responsible for accelerating UNFI’s retail business growth strategy while leading the company’s two retail banners, Cub Foods and Shoppers Food Warehouse.
“David’s track record of driving retail innovation, his deep industry expertise and his shopper-centric approach make him an ideal leader to help us write the next chapter of success for our retail business,” said UNFI CEO Sandy Douglas.
“As a Minnesota native, his connection to the local heritage of our Cub brand and his passion for the communities we serve will be invaluable as we partner with our franchisees to drive long-term, shared growth.”
Prior to joining UNFI, Best spent two years as president and COO of Coborn’s Inc., based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where he implemented a new strategy to accelerate growth, expand into new categories and build the team.
He also has served as SVP of omnichannel and strategic capabilities for General Mills and spent 19 years with Target, where he held a variety of leadership roles across merchandising, supply chain and business development.
“I’m excited to join UNFI and accelerate the retail business during such a pivotal time for the company,” Best said.
“As a former UNFI customer and a Minnesota native, I have a great respect for the differentiated value UNFI is creating within our industry and for everything the Cub brand means to the community I call home. I’m energized by the opportunity to work with the UNFI team and all our franchisees as we build a bright future for our retail business.”
Best will report to Douglas and serve on UNFI’s senior leadership team.
About UNFI
UNFI is a grocery wholesaler delivering a variety of fresh, branded and owned brand products to more than 30,000 locations throughout North America, including natural product superstores, independent retailers, conventional supermarket chains, e-commerce providers and food service customers. UNFI also provides a broad range of value-added services and segmented marketing expertise, including proprietary technology, data, market insights and shelf management to help customers and suppliers build their businesses and brands.
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