Posted inExecutive News, Associated Grocers, Inc., Southeast

Associated Grocers Names Politz Interim President, CEO

Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based Associated Grocers Inc. has named David Politz interim president and CEO, succeeding Manard Lagasse Jr., who is leaving the company at year’s end for another opportunity. Politz has a long history with Associated Grocers, beginning in 1985 as a part-time employee while attending college. During his career, he has served in various […]

Posted inBJ's Wholesale Club, Executive News, Northeast

BJ’s Wholesale Club Promotes Schmadeke, Kostka

BJ’s Wholesale Club has promoted Scott Schmadeke to EVP and COO, effective immediately, and named Krystyna Kostka chief supply chain officer. They will fill the roles previously held by Jeff Desroches, BJ’s EVP and COO, who has resigned. Schmadeke, former SVP of field and fresh operations, will have responsibility for all BJ’s clubs, distribution centers, […]

Posted inAssociation News, Executive News, National

Executive Perspectives: Kristin Popp

 A veteran of the grocery industry for more than a quarter century, Kristin Popp previously served as Wisconsin-based Woodman’s Food Markets’ HR director before becoming EVP. In addition to those duties, Popp serves as president of Women Grocers of America, which operates under the NGA Foundation. Popp shared her thoughts on leadership, management and getting […]

Posted inIndependent Store News, Executive News, Southeast

Houchens Food Group Announces Death Of Former Longtime Leader

Houchens Food Group has announced the death of former President and COO James “Jimmy” Kent Nichols, on Nov. 5, 2024, 11 days after being diagnosed with glioblastoma.  Nichols was born on July 10, 1959, in Clifton, Texas, and graduated from Crockett High School in Austin in 1977, according to his obituary. He got his start […]

Posted inHealth & Wellness, Albertsons, Executive News, Northeast, Wakefern

Wakefern Food Corp. Names Sapp As VP Of Pharmacy, Wellness

Wakefern Food Corp. has appointed Aaron Sapp as VP of pharmacy and wellness, reporting to Chief Sales Officer Darren Caudill. Sapp, who brings nearly 20 years of retail pharmacy leadership experience to his new role, will provide guidance to Wakefern members that operate ShopRite Pharmacies in the ever-evolving pharmacy landscape. Sapp most recently served as VP […]

Posted inExecutive News, Midwest, SpartanNash, The Kroger Co.

SpartanNash Brings Barry Aboard As SVP, Chief Retail Officer

SpartanNash has named Djouma Barry SVP and chief retail officer, overseeing retail strategy and operations across its growing footprint. Barry succeeds EVP of Corporate Retail Thomas Swanson, who is transitioning into a consulting arrangement at the end of year. Barry most recently served as VP of retail operations at Kroger. He spent most of his […]

Posted inNatural Grocers, Executive News, Southwest

Natural Grocers Appoints Hallé As CFO

Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage Inc. has appointed Richard Hallé as chief financial officer, effective Jan. 1. Hallé has served as a member of Natural Grocers’ board of directors and audit committee since 2012, and will succeed Todd Dissinger, who will retire on Dec 31. “I am thrilled to welcome Rich to the Natural Grocers executive team as […]