Ahold Delhaize USA has recently announced the appointment of Roger Wheeler, previously the chief commercial officer, as the new president of Stop & Shop. This change takes effect on September 30, marking a significant step in the leadership transition as current president, Gordon Reid, prepares for his retirement in mid-2025. This move highlights Ahold Delhaize’s commitment to nurturing internal talent while reinforcing its market position.
Ahold Delhaize USA CEO JJ Fleeman expressed confidence in Wheeler’s capabilities, stating, “At Ahold Delhaize USA, it’s a strength of our organization that we have a depth of internal leadership talent, which will ensure a smooth transition.” This approach emphasizes the importance of internal promotions in ensuring continuity and stability within the company. With over three decades of experience in the supermarket industry and nearly 20 years with Ahold Delhaize USA and Stop & Shop, Wheeler’s background positions him as a fitting choice to lead the brand forward.
Before this new role, Wheeler played a vital part as the chief commercial and supply chain officer, where he led the transformation of commercial capabilities to drive efficiencies and revenue growth. This previous experience is valuable as Stop & Shop is undergoing necessary strategic changes in a highly competitive retail environment. His track record in overseeing critical supply chain and IT transformations will undoubtedly aid in navigating the complexities of modern retail.
Wheeler’s history with the company also includes serving as the president of Retail Business Services, where he laid the foundation for various services that directly support the operations of Ahold Delhaize USA. His early years at Stop & Shop include positions as a store manager and category manager, providing him with a well-rounded understanding of the operations and customer dynamics within the grocery sector.
Wheeler’s academic credentials are equally impressive; a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, he is also an MBA holder from Bentley University. This combination of practical experience and formal education equips him to make informed decisions that can positively impact both customer and employee experiences at Stop & Shop.
“This new role is an honor,” Wheeler said in his statement. He acknowledged his long-standing relationship with the brand, not only as an employee but also as a lifelong customer. His personal investment in the brand’s mission and community ties is advantageous in further building customer loyalty. “Together, we will grow the Stop & Shop business, be a top employer in our markets, and create great experiences for our associates,” he asserted.
Stop & Shop operates more than 350 stores across five states, employing over 50,000 associates. With key capabilities in both brick-and-mortar operations and e-commerce, Stop & Shop aims to enhance its service offerings. The brand’s omnichannel approach is not just about physical stores; it also heavily invests in online pickup hubs and grocery delivery services. Customers in states like Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, and New Jersey have come to rely on Stop & Shop for both their grocery needs and community contributions.
As part of a broader strategy, Wheeler highlighted the necessity for significant multi-year price investments and a stronger customer value proposition. This strategic focus is aligned with the company’s “Growing Together” strategy, which aims to deepen customer loyalty while also promoting sustainable community involvement. The strong emphasis on customer experience positions Stop & Shop to effectively respond to changing consumer expectations and enhance its competitive edge in the marketplace.
In the lead-up to his retirement, Gordon Reid will continue to collaborate with the Ahold Delhaize USA leadership team, further easing the transition period. Reid has been with Stop & Shop since 2019 and has had a notable impact on the brand, notably through store remodels and price investment initiatives. His commitment to reshaping customer shopping experiences will serve as a critical foundation that Wheeler can build upon.
Ahold Delhaize USA, the parent company of Stop & Shop, ranks highly among North America’s top food and consumables retailers. This prominence is backed by a focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility, with the company recognized for its efforts in both areas.
As Roger Wheeler steps into the presidency of Stop & Shop, the retail world will be watching closely to see how his stewardship impacts the brand’s trajectory amid an ever-changing landscape. The leadership transition reflects a broader trend in the retail sector: prioritizing deep-rooted operational understanding to drive brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
Ultimately, the success of Stop & Shop under Wheeler’s leadership will hinge on its ability to evolve with customer expectations while maintaining its commitment to service quality and community values. Establishing a robust connection with customers, driven by a keen understanding of their needs, will be essential for the future development of the brand.