Wakefern Food Corp. has promoted Chris Ruane to director of Own Brands, reinforcing the company’s investment in the growth and evolution of its private label portfolio.
In his new role, Ruane will report to Chief Sales Officer Darren Caudill and lead strategy for Wakefern’s Own Brands portfolio. He will focus on advancing product innovation, optimizing assortment, strengthening supplier partnerships, and delivering the quality and value that drive customer loyalty across brands including Bowl & Basket, Wholesome Pantry and Paperbird.
“Chris’s deep industry expertise, strong leadership and commitment to value make him the right person to lead our Own Brands team,” Caudill said.
“As we continue to grow our portfolio and support our retail members, Chris will play an important role in advancing innovation and delivering high-quality products our customers trust.”
Ruane brings 20 years of wholesale and retail food industry experience to the role. In his former role as procurement manager of dairy at Wakefern, he oversaw a department representing more than $2 billion in retail sales, led category management and advertising teams, and helped drive growth through strong manufacturer partnerships, strong cost management and team development.
During his Wakefern career, Ruane has held leadership roles across dairy, frozen foods, health and beauty and grocery, building broad category expertise and a strong record of results. As procurement analyst, he managed inventory operations for more than 400 retail locations and helped ensure efficient product flow through effective vendor partnership and supply coordination.
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About Wakefern Food Corp.
Founded in 1946, Wakefern Food Corp. is made up of members who today independently own and operate hundreds of supermarkets under the ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market, Di Bruno Bros. and Morton Williams banners in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.