Associated Food Stores Executive and Leadership Team

Neal Berube, the Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the cooperative. Berube guides the organization's mission to supply independent supermarkets with groceries and consumer products, ensuring a competitive edge for member stores. This leadership involves fostering strong relationships with affiliated owners and driving initiatives that enhance the cooperative's value proposition. The focus remains on sustainable growth and operational excellence across the distribution network. Berube's strategic vision ensures Associated Food Stores effectively serves its independent grocery partners, reinforcing their market presence and profitability through robust supply chain solutions and dedicated support.

David Rice, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, spearheads the company's strategic direction and executive leadership. Rice oversees the wholesale distribution operations, ensuring the efficient supply of groceries and consumer products to independently owned supermarkets. This role involves cultivating key partnerships and driving innovation within the cooperative model to support member growth. The objective is to maintain a strong supply chain that empowers local businesses. David Rice's leadership ensures the cooperative's continued success in serving its member base, focusing on operational efficiency and market responsiveness to meet the evolving needs of independent grocers across its service regions.

Stephen Miner, the President, Market Development, Inc at Associated Food Stores, drives strategic initiatives focused on expanding market reach and enhancing member value. Miner leads efforts to develop and implement programs that support the growth and competitiveness of independently owned supermarkets supplied by the cooperative. This involves identifying new market opportunities and strengthening existing relationships within the grocery sector. Stephen Miner's role is critical in fostering a dynamic environment for market development, ensuring that Associated Food Stores and its members adapt to evolving consumer demands and retail landscapes. The focus is on creating sustainable growth pathways and increasing the overall market presence for the cooperative's network of stores.

Wade Judd, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer at Associated Food Stores, architects the company's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Judd oversees the implementation of advanced IT solutions that support the wholesale distribution of groceries and consumer products to independent supermarkets. This leadership position involves ensuring system reliability, data security, and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency for member stores. Wade Judd's focus is on leveraging technology to streamline supply chain processes and provide data-driven insights that empower independent grocers. The CIO drives digital transformation initiatives, ensuring Associated Food Stores remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the cooperative wholesale sector.