The Fresh Market Welcomes Rich Durante as Chief Merchandising Officer
GREENSBORO, NC - A go-to for grocery needs throughout 24 states, The Fresh Market is promoting Rich Durante to Chief Merchandising Officer. In his new role, Durante will oversee the retail chain’s buying activities and develop strategic purchasing plans to take its merchandising practices to the next level, as well as boost product innovation and product quality throughout its locations.
“One of my main priorities as chief merchandising officer is to create programs and initiatives that will further position The Fresh Market as an industry leader in freshness and quality,” said Durante. “I look forward to expanding The Fresh Market’s signature and specialty categories, as well as driving market innovation through our meal solutions.”
This is the next step in Durante’s career at The Fresh Market; he stepped into the role of Executive Vice President of Midwest and Southeast Merchandising for the chain in April of 2017. In that role, he managed merchandising departments and private label programs within the regions, a recent press release explained.
His experience spans over 39 years of food retail—from gourmet to contemporary markets. Prior to joining The Fresh Market, he held the position as Chief Operating Officer for AG Supermarket Holdings—which operates Kings Food Markets, Balducci’s Food Lover’s Market, and Balducci’s On the Go Café. In addition to this role, Durante has experience with responsibilities, such as leading merchandising, operations, marketing, and engineering teams at Kings Super Markets.
“Rich is an experienced food retailer, and his expertise in merchandising and operations is a great asset to our team” said Larry Appel, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Love of food is at the heart of The Fresh Market, and I’m confident that under Rich’s leadership, we will further enhance our product offering and continue to deliver unique, quality items to our guests.”
Congratulations to Rich and the entire The Fresh Market team! We, at AndNowUKnow, look forward to seeing what successes come from this next step and more in the future.
