Grand Rapids, Michigan-based SpartanNash has named Jason Ulichnie VP of OwnBrands marketing. In this role, Ulichnie will oversee the end-to-end portfolio management, product development and brand equity of SpartanNash OwnBrands – including Our Family, Fresh and Finest by Our Family and Finest Reserve by Our Family – for company-operated stores and wholesale customers. Ulichnie also will manage […]
Category: News
Posted inAnniversary Issues, Feature, News, West
Former Vons Revamped As Pavilions In Mission Hills Neighborhood
The former Vons location in the Mission Hills area of San Diego, California, is now a Pavilions store. Though it underwent a fairly extensive remodel, the store remained open throughout the process. Wayne Heaton, VP and GM for Pavilions, said Mission Hills is “an incredible neighborhood” for the format. “Mission Hills has a great diverse […]
Posted inExecutive News, Independent Store News, News, Southeast
Houchens Food Group Names Shillinglaw As COO
Bowling Green, Kentucky-based Houchens Food Group Inc. has appointed Brian Shillinglaw as chief operating officer (COO). Shillinglaw brings more than 24 years of leadership experience in grocery retail, specializing in merchandising, operations and human resources. Throughout his career, he has held key operational roles at several grocery retailers, including Winn-Dixie, Southeastern Grocers, Rouses, Harris Teeter […]
Posted inExecutive News, Association News, Frozen Food, Marketing News, National, News
AFFI Hires Meredith As Director Of Marketing, Communications
The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) has named Rebecca Meredith its new director of marketing and communications. In this role, she will oversee the organization’s content creation and execution, as well as drive AFFI’s event and member communications strategies. Most recently, Meredith served as communications manager at CropLife America, a national trade association representing agricultural […]
Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Executive News, Midwest, News, SpartanNash
SpartanNash Shares CIO, CISO Leadership Appointments
SpartanNash has appointed two new executive leaders – Ed Rybicki as SVP and chief information officer (CIO) and Brett Hoffman as VP and chief information security officer (CISO). The IT department is reporting to EVP and CFO Jason Monaco as part of a newly combined finance/IT/strategy organization. Rybicki will oversee SpartanNash’s technology team, focusing on […]
Expert Article
Crazy Fresh Works With Midwest Growers To Secure Freshest Produce
In an age of global supply chains and mass-produced food, local produce farming stands as a vital cornerstone of our economy and culture. From roadside farm stands to bustling farmers markets, locally grown food plays an essential role in communities, connecting people to the land and to those who cultivate it. At the heart of […]
Posted inIndependent Store News, Fareway, Market Profile, Midwest, News
Renovated Lisbon Location Latest For Fareway Stores In Iowa
The grocery industry in Iowa experienced a dynamic period from 2024 through mid-2025, marked by strategic expansions, significant remodels and a notable few closures, reflecting both economic pressures and a continued focus on serving communities. While the state’s overall financial position remains strong, grocers are navigating evolving consumer habits and intense competition. Iowa-based Fareway Stores […]
Posted inGrocery Store Equipment, Association News, National, News
Federal Judge Vacates Debit Card Swipe Fee Cap, Grocery Industry Hails Victory
In a ruling that could reshape payment costs for the retail sector, a federal judge has struck down the Federal Reserve’s regulation on debit card swipe fees. The Aug. 7 decision, paused pending appeal, has been greeted as a win by grocery retail advocates who have long argued that inflated fees drive up their costs […]