Big changes seem to be afoot at The Fresh Market, as current CEO and Board Member Rick Anicetti has announced his resignation. Effective immediately, the NC-based retailer has appointed Brian Nicholson, now The Fresh Market’s CFO, as interim CEO in his stead.
Prior to Anicetti joining the retailer in 2015, his career spanned more than 30 years at Hannaford and Food Lion. He served for eight years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Food Lion grocery stores. Anicetti has been a member of the Board of Directors at Number Holdings, Inc., the parent company of 99 Cents Only Stores LLC, where he also had experience as its interim CEO. Anicetti also held a Board position at Smart & Final.
“The company appreciates Mr. Anicetti’s significant contributions and service and wishes him luck in his future endeavors,” said The Fresh Market in its public announcement to the press.
Nicholson, who will hold the role of CEO until a permanent choice has been made, has held the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since returning to The Fresh Market in September 2016. From 2004 to 2012, he held a variety of positions for the company, including serving as Vice President in the business strategy, financial planning, and analysis function from 2005 to 2012.
“The Fresh Market’s Board of Directors has great confidence in Mr. Nicholson as the right person to guide the Company in this interim period as it continues to focus on delivering excellent service and delicious, fresh food,” the retailer added in its remarks.
In tandem with Nicholson, The Fresh Market announced its current Senior Leadership Team will continue to execute the company’s strategic plan and adapt as needed to the evolving marketplace even in Anicetti’s absence.
Deli Market News will continue to keep its eyes on this developing story.
