Wakefern Food Corp. has promoted Chris Ruane to director of Own Brands.
In his new role, Ruane will focus on advancing product innovation, optimizing assortment, strengthening supplier partnerships and delivering quality and value across brands including Bowl & Basket, Wholesome Pantry and Paperbird. He will report to Chief Sales Officer Darren Caudill.
“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 has 20 years of wholesale and retail food industry experience. 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 career at Keasbey, New Jersey-based Wakefern, Ruane has held leadership roles in 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.
[RELATED: Wakefern Food Corp. Selects Eagle Eye To Power Loyalty, Personalization]
About Wakefern Food Corp.
Founded in 1946, Wakefern Food Corp. is made up of members who 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.