Mariano joins Gelson’s board

Gelson’s Markets said Wednesday that longtime industry veteran Bob Mariano has joined its board of directors.

Mariano retired last year as chairman and CEO of Milwaukee-based Roundy’s following the company’s acquisition by Kroger Co. (link: http://www.supermarketnews.com/executive-changes/kroger-mariano-retire-september) Before joining Roundy’s, where he launched the Mariano’s Fresh Market banner in the Chicago area, Mariano had spent his career at Chicago-based Dominick’s, working his way up from deli clerk to CEO, until that chain was acquired by Safeway in 1998.

“Bob Mariano is a legend in the supermarket industry, especially in the Midwest where he has made an indelible impact with the chain of stores that carry his name,” said Rob McDougall, president and CEO of Gelson’s. “We are thrilled he has agreed to join our board of directors, bringing his vast expertise, his vision for the industry and relationships to Gelson’s.”

Gelson’s, based in Encino, Calif., operates 25 upmarket stores in Southern California. It has been owned by private investment firm TPG since 2014.