LUBBOCK, TX – The United Family® has announced that Darvel Kirby, Produce Director and longtime team member, is retiring effective Saturday, February 28.

“It has been an honor to be a part of The United Family,” said Kirby, who has been with the company for more than 20 years. “I’m proud of the team we have built over the past several years, which has allowed us to promote from within so we can carry on the operation and positive reputation of The United Family produce department in the future.”

Kirby originally joined The United Family as Produce Supervisor and served as Produce Director for 12 years. The company reported in a press release that during Kirby’s tenure, produce department sales grew by more than 100%.

Joseph Bunting, a 22-year veteran of The United Family, will be promoted from Produce Business Manager to assume the role of Produce Director. 

“I am extremely lucky to have worked alongside Darvel, especially as our stores transitioned from the pre-book order system and added our in-house fresh cut produce program,” said Bunting. “This is an exciting opportunity for me, and my goal is to continue the department’s tradition of excellence using the knowledge Darvel passed along to me.”

Bunting, who has already begun his transition into his new role, joined The United Family in 1992 as a sacker at the United Supermarkets store in Abilene, Texas.

United Supermarkets