Posted inMerchandising News, Executive News, Imperial Distributors, Northeast, Supply Chain News

Imperial Distributors Makes Several Leadership Changes

Imperial Distributors has announced key organizational changes to its leadership team, effective April 1.  Michael Sleeper, who joined Imperial in 1964 and became president and CEO in 1970, will transition into the role of executive chairman of the board. Sleeper’s entrepreneurial and visionary leadership and commitment to Imperial’s values have shaped its success and influence […]

Posted inMeat/Seafood/Poultry, Merchandising News, National

Prices Remain Big Worry During Thanksgiving Season

According to Acosta’s proprietary shopper community, prices remain a “big concern” this Thanksgiving, with 40 percent of consumers looking for deals, “using coupons and comparison shopping.” Acosta reports that a majority of hosts plan to prepare the entire holiday meal themselves, while 40 percent plan to attend Thanksgiving as a guest. The company also found […]

Posted inCenter Store, Merchandising News, Midwest

Buehler’s Fresh Foods Promotes Melillo To VP Of Merchandising

Christina Melillo, director of center store and packaged goods, has been promoted to VP of merchandising for Buehler’s Fresh Foods. In her new role at Buehler’s, Melillo will work with store operations to ensure the implementation of operational programs and innovative concepts. She will play a role in shaping and driving the strategic direction of the […]

Posted inProduce News, Executive News, Merchandising News, Midwest

SpartanNash Elevates Smith In Floral Merchandising

SpartanNash has promoted Andy Smith to senior director of merchandising in produce/floral. In his new role, Smith will oversee all aspects of SpartanNash’s produce and floral merchandising to include retail, category management, distribution and procurement. “I’m pleased to promote Andy from within to fill this critical role on the merchandising team,” said Bennett Morgan, EVP […]

Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Merchandising News, Southwest

Walmart Offers Late-Night Delivery, Live Shopper Feature

Bentonville, Arkansas-based Walmart has begun to introduce late night delivery nationwide, according to a recent blog post by Tom Ward, EVP and chief e-commerce officer for Walmart U.S. “Life doesn’t always happen on schedule, and Walmart understands that implicitly. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer online pickup and delivery at over 4,000 stores nationwide, and […]

Posted inExecutive News, Amazon Fresh, Merchandising News, Midwest, Whole Foods, Wholesaler/Distributor News

SpartanNash Elevates Morgan To EVP, CMO

Citing his leadership skills, Grand Rapids, Michigan-based SpartanNash has promoted Bennett Morgan to EVP and chief merchandising officer.  Morgan, who joined SpartanNash in January 2022 as SVP and chief merchandising officer, leads fresh, center store and pharmacy merchandising, pricing, promotions and category and master data management. “Bennett’s leadership has advanced our capabilities in merchandising and […]

Posted inMeat/Seafood/Poultry, Marketing News, Merchandising News, Southeast

Butterball Releases 2023 Thanksgiving Outlook Report

Garner, North Carolina-based Butterball has released its 2023 Thanksgiving Outlook Report, revealing consumer plans and sentiment. According to the findings, people are optimistic and planning to celebrate – with turkey as the centerpiece – again this year, but inflation is top of mind for many. Notably, 79 percent of consumers who plan to celebrate Thanksgiving expect inflation to impact […]

Posted inAssociation News, Marketing News, Merchandising News, National

FMI Report: Parents Buying Groceries Online More Often

The most recent survey of grocery shoppers’ spending habits and attitudes by FMI – The Food Industry Association found that parents are using online grocery shopping more than most consumers. According to FMI’s “Back to School” report, 42 percent of parents noted a year-over-year increase in frequency for buying groceries online. As a group, they […]