Allegiance Retail Services looks to boost store growth with executive appointments

Grocery retail cooperative Allegiance Retail Services has named Michael Conese as vice president of perishable merchandising, effective this coming Monday, the company announced on Wednesday. He will report to Chief Merchandising Officer Samer Rahman.

In his new position, Conese will oversee and direct all fresh department activities supporting the cooperative including meat, produce, deli, seafood, bakery and meal solutions.

“Mike’s extensive merchandising experience will benefit both the existing membership and position Allegiance to seamlessly transition the accelerated store growth which will be realized over the next two-quarters,” said John T. Derderian, president and chief operating officer, who beginning next month will shift to a part-time role at the grocery retail cooperative.

Dean Holmquist, formerly vice president of perishable merchandising, has been appointed vice president of store operations. Holmquist has been associated with Allegiance Retail Services and its banner Foodtown for over 35 years.

Allegiance’s retail network supports over 140 supermarkets in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island under the following banners: Foodtown, Freshtown Marketplace, D’Agostino, Gristedes, Morton Williams, Pathmark, LaBella Marketplace, Brooklyn Harvest Market, Market Fresh, Big Deal Food Market, Green Way Markets, Food Basics and Shop n Bag.