Leadership Overview
Associated Food Stores has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, and market development.
Driven by a cooperative model, Associated Food Stores supplies groceries and consumer products to independently owned supermarkets, fostering community-based retail success across its operational footprint.
Driven by a cooperative model, Associated Food Stores supplies groceries and consumer products to independently owned supermarkets, fostering community-based retail success across its operational footprint.
Leadership Roles at Associated Food Stores
Neal Berube - Chief Executive Officer
Neal Berube, the Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the cooperative wholesale distributor. Berube guides the organization's mission to supply groceries and consumer products to independently owned supermarkets, ensuring sustained growth and market relevance. This leadership role involves aligning departmental objectives with the company's core purpose of supporting its member retailers. Berube's strategic vision focuses on enhancing the value proposition for independent grocers, thereby strengthening their competitive position in the regional market. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities encompass fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and driving initiatives that promote efficiency and profitability throughout the supply chain. Neal Berube's executive oversight ensures the cooperative's continued success in serving its diverse membership base.
David Rice - President & Chief Executive Officer
David Rice, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Associated Food Stores, spearheads the company's strategic direction and operational leadership. Rice's mandate involves guiding the cooperative's mission to provide essential groceries and consumer products to a network of independently owned supermarkets. This executive position requires a deep understanding of the wholesale distribution landscape and the unique needs of independent retailers. Rice drives initiatives aimed at optimizing the supply chain, enhancing product offerings, and ensuring the financial health of member stores. The President & Chief Executive Officer's role includes fostering innovation and adapting to evolving market dynamics to maintain a competitive edge. David Rice's leadership is critical in upholding the cooperative's commitment to supporting its members and driving collective success across its service regions.
Stephen Miner - President, Market Development, Inc
Stephen Miner, the President, Market Development, Inc at Associated Food Stores, drives strategic initiatives focused on expanding market reach and enhancing member engagement. Miner's leadership is centered on developing and implementing programs that support the growth and success of independently owned supermarkets supplied by the cooperative. This role involves identifying new market opportunities, fostering strong relationships with retail partners, and ensuring the effective delivery of value-added services. The President, Market Development, Inc's responsibilities include analyzing market trends, developing competitive strategies, and overseeing the execution of initiatives designed to increase market share. Stephen Miner's focus on market development is crucial for strengthening the cooperative's position and ensuring its members thrive in the dynamic retail environment.
Wade Judd - Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer
Wade Judd, the Senior VP, Technology & Chief Information Officer at Associated Food Stores, architects and executes the company's comprehensive technology strategy. Judd oversees all aspects of information systems, ensuring robust and scalable infrastructure to support the wholesale distribution of groceries and consumer products. This leadership position is vital for enhancing operational efficiency and providing cutting-edge technological solutions to independently owned supermarkets. Judd's responsibilities include managing data security, implementing innovative software, and driving digital transformation initiatives across the cooperative. The Chief Information Officer's focus extends to leveraging technology to improve inventory management, streamline logistics, and empower member retailers with advanced tools. Wade Judd's expertise ensures Associated Food Stores maintains a technological advantage in serving its diverse membership.

Explore Leadership Teams in Grocery Retail
FreshPoint is North America's largest exclusively owned produce distributor, founded in 1865. The company specializes in providing high-quality fresh produce to chefs and food service professionals across multiple locations. FreshPoint operates with a substantial logistics network, including numerous trucks and drivers for interstate deliveries. The company maintains a strong commitment to customer service, offering innovative solutions in the grocery retail sector. FreshPoint delivers products with integrity, efficiency, and a focus on quality, positioning itself as a trusted business partner in the food distribution industry. The company has an international presence with operations across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific regions.
Company Leadership AH
TS
WD
NR
Established in 1953 and headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, KeHe Distributors LLC is a provider of distribution and solutions services such as packaging and food products.
Company Leadership


Established in 1979, Shoprite Holdings is a retail supermarket that provides pharmaceutical and grocery related products to consumers. This company is headquartered in Western Cape, South Africa.
Company Leadership
IB
LA
MV
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 MC
JM
NS