Leadership Overview
Associated Food Stores has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, wholesale operations, technology infrastructure, and market development.
Committed to supporting independent retailers, Associated Food Stores delivers essential grocery products while fostering sustainable growth and operational excellence across the regional wholesale landscape.
Committed to supporting independent retailers, Associated Food Stores delivers essential grocery products while fostering sustainable growth and operational excellence across the regional wholesale landscape.
Leadership Roles at Associated Food Stores
Neal Berube - Chief Executive Officer
Neal Berube, the Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, directs the overarching strategic vision for the cooperative wholesale distributor. Berube manages the alignment of wholesale grocery supply chains with the specific needs of independently owned supermarkets. By overseeing long-term financial health and corporate governance, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains a competitive edge in the regional retail market. Neal Berube also coordinates with the board to refine business models that support member retailers. This leadership role involves navigating complex supply chain logistics to optimize product availability across the network. Through rigorous oversight of operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable growth for the entire cooperative. Berube maintains a focus on scaling distribution capabilities to meet evolving consumer demands. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the stability of the wholesale network while empowering independent grocers to thrive in a challenging retail environment.
David Rice - President & Chief Executive Officer
David Rice, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, executes the daily operational mandates and long-term growth initiatives for the wholesale cooperative. Rice oversees the integration of consumer product distribution with the specific requirements of independent supermarket partners. By driving regional expansion strategies, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization remains the primary supplier for local grocers. David Rice also manages cross-departmental collaboration to streamline procurement and logistics processes. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to adjust inventory strategies for maximum retail impact. Through the implementation of robust operational frameworks, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains high service standards across the entire supply chain. Rice focuses on strengthening relationships with member retailers to ensure mutual success. Ultimately, the President & Chief Executive Officer directs the company toward increased market share and operational resilience within the competitive grocery wholesale sector.
Steve Miner - President, Market Development, Inc
Steve Miner, the President, Market Development, Inc at Associated Food Stores, directs the expansion of retail services and business growth initiatives for the cooperative. Miner oversees the development of new market opportunities that provide independent supermarkets with enhanced competitive advantages. By driving strategic partnerships, the President, Market Development, Inc ensures the organization captures emerging consumer trends in the grocery sector. Steve Miner also manages the implementation of specialized retail programs designed to increase store profitability. This leadership role involves analyzing regional market data to identify areas for service improvement and expansion. Through the coordination of marketing and development teams, the President, Market Development, Inc fosters innovation in the retail support model. Miner focuses on delivering value-added services that differentiate member stores from national chains. Ultimately, the President, Market Development, Inc secures the long-term viability of the cooperative by expanding the reach and influence of independent grocery retailers.
Wade Judd - Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer
Wade Judd, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer at Associated Food Stores, architects the digital infrastructure supporting wholesale distribution and retail operations. Judd oversees the implementation of advanced data analytics to optimize inventory management for independent supermarkets. By driving the modernization of enterprise software, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity between the warehouse and retail storefronts. Wade Judd also manages cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive supply chain data. This leadership role involves aligning technological investments with the broader business goal of improving operational efficiency. Through the deployment of scalable cloud solutions, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer supports the digital transformation of the cooperative. Judd maintains a focus on enhancing the user experience for member retailers through intuitive digital tools. Ultimately, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer secures the technological foundation necessary for the company to maintain its regional market leadership.

Explore Leadership Teams in Grocery Retail
Founded in 1930, Hy-Vee is a grocery retail company operating 232 supermarkets and drugstores across eight Midwestern states. The company offers a wide range of food products, pharmacy services, and general merchandise. Hy-Vee is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa and maintains a significant logistics network including warehouses and a trucking fleet to support its retail operations. The company has expanded its services to include mobile applications for customers and operates in various sectors including grocery retail, pharmacy, and health services.
Company Leadership AW
KS
DF
Binzagr is amongst the largest and leading Distributors in Saudi Arabia. The Distribution business forms the foundation of Binzagr Company, and one that traces the company's history from trading on the ancient spice route between Europe and East, since the year 1881. Today, it is among the leading and well reputed Distribution companies in Saudi Arabia, specializing in the distribution and logistics of a wide range of Consumer Products, spanning Food and Drink, Personal & Beauty Care, Home Care and Automotive Tires.
Company Leadership AB
AG
SA
RS
Stew Leonards is a family-owned and operated grocery chain with locations in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. The company was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut.
Company Leadership
PD
TA
TB
Founded in 2017, COFCO is an agriculture supply chain company that is focused on global grains, oilseeds, and sugar supply chains. They supply agriculture products around the world through a globally integrated supply chain, originating from surplus producing regions to supply regions with high demand. COFCO is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
Company Leadership JM
MC
NS