Tops names VP of center store

Kristen Hanson has been named VP of center store sales and merchandising at Tops Friendly Markets.

She will lead all functions of sales and merchandising in the center store areas of the business including edible and non-food grocery, dairy/frozen, general merchandise, health and beauty care, pharmacy Tops fuel business and merchandising supply chain.

Hanson was VP for the Delhaize America Shared Services Group from 1992 to 2013. During that time she oversaw center store merchandising, “Our Brands” and fresh merchandising. She was also VP of sales and marketing for Green Thumb Farm, which is part of the Fresh Solutions Network. She is co-owner of Hanson’s Hometown Hardware in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, with her husband Ron.

“As Tops continues to expand, this is an ideal time for someone with Kristen’s knowledge and expertise to join our team,” said Tops’ president and COO, John Persons, in a statement. “Her breadth of experience in sales and merchandising, impressive track record with developing and launching new products, and ability to manage a team in an ever evolving and fast past industry is certainly impressive, and we’re excited to have her on board.”