Grocery Outlet CEO Eric Lindberg to depart after 17 years

Eric Lindberg is departing as CEO of Emeryville, California-based Grocery Outlet, after 17 years, the discounter announced Tuesday ahead of its quarterly earnings call. Current President RJ Sheedy will take over the top post at the retailer.

Lindberg will become chairman of Grocery Outlet's board and Sheedy will also be appointed to the board, the company said. Erik D. Ragatz, currently chairman of the board, will assume the role of lead independent director.

"There is no one better to lead Grocery Outlet into the next chapter of growth than RJ Sheedy," Lindberg said in a statement. "He is a strong business leader who takes a long-term strategic approach, which will position Grocery Outlet for continued success. RJ's leadership style exemplifies our culture and values, he is passionate about the business, and his relentless pursuit of excellence resonates with and inspires our team. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have led this remarkable group of people for the past seventeen years, and I look forward to working closely with RJ and the management team in my future role as Chairman."

Sheedy, who joined the company in 2012, brings more than 20 years of experience in the grocery and retail industries. He has served as the company's president since 2019. Sheedy brings extensive experience through his time at Grocery Outlet, where he served in leadership roles overseeing purchasing, marketing, supply chain and strategy.

"I am honored to serve as the next CEO of Grocery Outlet, succeeding Eric, who has demonstrated great leadership and vision. The company has experienced tremendous growth and transformation during his tenure, and I look forward to working with Eric for many more years to come," said Sheedy in a statement. "For over 10 years, I have had the privilege of working with the incredibly talented and committed group of independent operators and employees at Grocery Outlet. I am excited to continue working closely with them to provide even better value to our customers and extend our mission of Touching Lives for the Better in both existing and new geographies. I am eager to lead Grocery Outlet forward as we strive to realize our tremendous growth potential."

Ragatz, speaking on behalf of Grocery Outlet's board, noted that the new leadership structure will position the grocer for future growth.

“I want to thank Eric for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to Grocery Outlet and our employees, independent operators, customers, and communities,” Ragatz said in a statement. “Under his stewardship, the business has experienced remarkable success and remains well-positioned for continued growth. As president, RJ has been instrumental in that success and in guiding the company's long-term strategic vision. RJ is a respected leader throughout the company, and we are confident that he is the best person to lead Grocery Outlet through this exciting next phase of growth."