The Save Mart Companies has named Jim Perkins president and CEO, placing a 40-year grocery industry veteran at the helm of one of the West Coast’s largest regional, full-service grocers. He succeeds Shane Sampson, who has led the company since 2022 and is retiring.
Perkins most recently served as president of The Save Mart Companies, overseeing store operations, merchandising and marketing across the company’s banners, including Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Roth’s and Chuck’s Fresh Markets.
“For 70 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to West Coast families because we understand what it means to be a true neighbor,” he said. “Our associates know their communities intimately because they live and work in them, serving neighbors they’ve known for years.
“Our competitive advantage isn’t just what we do – it’s who we are. That authentic connection, combined with our transformation across operations, formats and digital innovation, positions us for meaningful growth while staying true to our roots.”
A California native, Perkins has spent more than four decades in the grocery industry, including leadership roles across multiple states before returning to California in 2004 to lead the Lucky banner. He has been recognized for developing future retail leaders and driving operational excellence, earning numerous industry honors.
Founded in California’s Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies operates more than 200 stores across California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, employing more than 11,000 associates, some 30 percent of whom has spent two decades-plus with the company.
In Perkins’ tenure as president, the company has implemented operational improvements and customer-focused initiatives while advancing strategic priorities centered on customer centricity, operational excellence and talent development.
His appointment comes as the company continues a multi-year transformation focused on modernizing formats, merchandising, loyalty and supply chain capabilities.
The Save Mart Companies is owned by The Jim Pattison Group, providing long-term financial stability to support continued investment and growth.
“Jim exemplifies the leadership qualities and community commitment that define both The Save Mart Companies and The Jim Pattison Group,” said Ryan Barrington-Foote, president of the group.
“His deep understanding of West Coast grocery, proven track record of operational excellence and dedication to developing people make him the ideal leader to guide this award-winning company into its next chapter. We’re excited to support Jim and this exceptional team as they build on 70 years of trusted service to their communities.”
Looking ahead in 2026, the company plans to open new locations, complete major remodels and expand merchandising assortments across all banners.
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