WEST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. — Supervalu last week said that Larry Wahlstrom would retire as president of the company's struggling Shaw's division, based here, to be succeeded by Mike Witynski. Wahlstrom, 57, said in a prepared statement that it “has long been a goal” to retire at that age, after 38 years in the drug and food retailing industry, to spend more time with his family. He began his industry career at Osco Drug and had held a number of positions with Albertsons, including president of Jewel-Osco in Chicago. Witynski, 46, is currently group vice president, private brands, for Supervalu. The change is the latest in a series of executive shifts at Minneapolis-based Supervalu since Craig Herkert took over as chief executive officer in May.
GIANT TAPS LENTZ FOR SUPPLY CHAIN
CARLISLE, Pa. — Giant Food Stores here last week named Walt Lentz senior vice president of supply chain for the Ahold-owned retailer. He will report to Peter Labbe, executive vice president of retail operations and supply chain. Lentz held a series of positions at Kellogg Co., most recently vice president, North American supply chain effectiveness and network planning.
STATER NAMES HARRIS VP OF FINANCE
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Stater Bros. Markets here said it has named Dave Harris as vice president, finance — a new position — responsible for directing day-to-day operations of the chain's financial department. Harris, who has over 15 years' experience in accounting and auditing, was previously a partner with Soren McAdam Christenson in Redlands, Calif. He will report to Phil Smith, executive vice president of finance, chief financial officer and chief accounting officer.
PRICE CHOPPER PROMOTES THREE
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Price Chopper Supermarkets, based here, said last week it has promoted three employees: Shelley Florence was named vice president of associate relations; Chester Pennacchia was named director of construction; and Andrew White was named zone director. Florence, with Price Chopper since 1988, most recently as director of associate relations-retail, reports to Margaret Davenport, senior vice president of human resources. She will continue to oversee corporate communications. Pennacchia has been with Price Chopper since 1979, most recently as manager of construction. He will report to Bill Sweet, vice president of engineering and construction. White joined Price Chopper in 1981, most recently as regional perishable merchandising specialist. He reports to Al Provancher, regional vice president, and will oversee 15 stores in the Albany, N.Y., area.
