After reviewing its position in the marketplace, SpartanNash has decided to significantly change its leadership structure. David Staples, President and CEO, announced that he would be leaving both the company and the Board. In his place, the Board of Directors has appointed its Chairman, Dennis Eidson, to the roles of Interim President and CEO, effective immediately. He will serve in these roles until the next CEO is identified.
“The Board remains confident in the company’s strategic direction and its ability to generate top line growth; however, execution has fallen short of our expectations, and we believe that now is the time for a leadership change,” said Douglas Hacker, Lead Independent Director of the Board. “I want to thank Dennis for returning to the leadership position to guide the company’s efforts in revitalizing performance and maximizing long-term shareholder value.”
According to a press release, Eidson previously served as SpartanNash’s CEO from 2008-2017. Throughout his 16-year career with the company, he has served as President, Chief Operating Officer, and Executive Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising.
“I am confident in the strength of our platform and look forward to working with our talented team to deliver improved performance,” said Eidson. “Our focus will be on enhancing our distribution business, driving operational execution and organizational development while positioning SpartanNash to achieve long-term profitable growth and improved value for shareholders. In order to provide transparency, we have elected to preview our second quarter financial results, as well as our current outlook for the balance of the year.”
In addition to these executive changes, SpartanNash noted that it would be ending its Fresh Kitchen Operations to improve earnings. Instead, it will be focusing on its produce distribution and Fresh Cut operations.
Hacker also extended his well wishes to David Staples.
“On behalf of the Board, I also want to thank Dave for his contributions to SpartanNash throughout his tenure,” he stated. “Since joining the company in 2000, Dave has presided over numerous successful business initiatives and has been instrumental in driving SpartanNash’s growth. We wish him well in the future.”
Keep reading Deli Market News for anything pertaining to executive changes.