In a significant leadership transition, Fareway Stores, Inc., a well-known Midwest retailer, has announced the promotions of four senior executives as they prepare for their move to a new corporate headquarters in Johnston, Iowa. This strategic shift not only highlights the company’s commitment to nurturing talent but also aligns with its ongoing expansion plans across the Midwest.
Fareway recognizes the integral role that strong leadership plays in its growth. The newly appointed leaders include Tom Laven, who takes on the role of Senior Vice President (SVP) of Retail Operations; Theresa McLaughlin, promoted to SVP of Human Resources; Bryan Greiner, who is now Vice President (VP) of the West Region; and Rob Stevenson, appointed as Assistant VP of Employee Engagement and Recognition. Reynolds Cramer, the CEO of Fareway, emphasized the timeliness and merit of these promotions, reaffirming that these key figures have significantly contributed to the company’s core operations and will drive its future success.
“Tom, Theresa, Bryan, and Rob are important members of our team. They contribute greatly to our core and expanding operations, and will be essential to our continued success,” Cramer noted. He expressed enthusiasm about the organization’s focus on identifying and fostering internal talent, indicating that leadership development is crucial for sustaining growth.
These leadership updates coincide with an active phase in Fareway’s expansion, driven by increasing consumer demand and market opportunities. Recently, the retailer broke ground on a new 21,000-square-foot store in Granger, Iowa, set to open in 2025. This is just one in a series of new locations planned across Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The company is strategically building its footprint, emphasizing enhanced accessibility for its growing customer base.
The ongoing construction of additional stores also reflects the company’s strong commitment to the communities it serves. Last month, construction commenced in other areas such as Story City and Spirit Lake in Iowa, showcasing Fareway’s proactive approach to meeting local grocery needs in various neighborhoods. This expansion not only strengthens Fareway’s market presence but also generates employment opportunities, which is particularly critical in today’s economic climate.
Fareway is a family-owned enterprise with a robust workforce, employing over 12,000 associates across its 139 locations. The company holds an impressive rank as No. 87 on The PG 100, which lists the top food and consumables retailers in North America, as released by Progressive Grocer in 2024. Being recognized as a “Top Regional Grocer” for 2024 further validates Fareway’s strong standing in the competitive grocery market.
In an increasingly competitive retail landscape, Fareway’s commitment to promoting capable leaders within its ranks is commendable. Investing in leadership not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters a positive work environment, which is crucial for employee retention and customer satisfaction.
The leadership changes are a potential game changer for Fareway as it gears up for its ambitious expansion plans. By harnessing the strengths of newly promoted leaders, the company aims to navigate the complexities of growth while maintaining its core values and high standards of service.
The future looks promising for Fareway Stores, Inc. With a solid leadership team in place and a clear focus on expansion, the company is well-prepared to tackle the challenges ahead and seize new opportunities in the retail sector.
