In a significant move, Wakefern Food Corp. has announced the appointment of Mark Van Buskirk as the group vice president of fresh food. This strategic decision signals Wakefern’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its offerings in bakery, meat, seafood, produce, appetizers, foodservice, and floral products, sectors that are pivotal to the supermarket experience for customers.
Mark Van Buskirk brings an impressive background of 35 years in marketing, sales, operations, and private brand development, predominantly within the grocery and convenience sectors. His extensive experience includes notable roles at The Save Market Companies, Albertsons, SuperValu, and Jacksons Food Store. This depth of expertise is set to be instrumental in driving growth in the fresh food categories that are increasingly vital in today’s competitive grocery landscape.
Darren Caudill, Wakefern’s chief sales officer, expressed enthusiasm about Van Buskirk joining the leadership team. He emphasized that high-quality fresh offerings are at the core of customer satisfaction in supermarkets. This perspective is supported by market research which demonstrates that consumers prioritize freshness when choosing grocery retailers. When consumers perceive fresh food items as subpar, they are likely to switch brands or retailers entirely, further underscoring the importance of fresh product leadership.
Wakefern Food Corp., headquartered in Keasbey, New Jersey, holds the title of the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States. It consists of nearly 50 members that own and operate over 365 supermarkets, operating under well-known banners such as ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, and more. This collaborative model enables independent operators to compete more effectively against larger chains while maintaining a local touch.
In its recent ranking, Wakefern secured the 31st position on Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America. The cooperative’s growth trajectory exemplifies the capabilities of independent grocers to thrive through adaptation and innovation in response to consumer trends.
With the appointment of Van Buskirk, Wakefern is poised to focus more on enhancing the quality and selection of fresh products it offers. As customers continuously seek diverse and fresh options, investing in this area is not just strategic but essential. Leading brands are taking notice; recent trends show that grocery retailers are adjusting their logistics and supply chain strategies to ensure even fresher produce reaches the shelves faster than ever.
The role of fresh foods is also expanding beyond simple grocery items. Retailers are increasingly integrating value-added products and meal solutions that cater to busy lifestyles. For instance, ready-to-eat meals and custom meal kits are gaining traction as they offer convenience without compromising quality. Van Buskirk’s background in private brand development suggests he will likely explore these avenues further.
Additionally, sustainability and sourcing practices are becoming critical factors for consumers. Shoppers are increasingly aware of where their food comes from and the impact of their choices on the environment. Van Buskirk’s leadership will likely push for initiatives that not only align with consumer expectations but also promote responsible sourcing strategies within Wakefern’s fresh product lines.
Wakefern’s investment in fresh food categories cannot be underestimated. Research from industry leaders indicates that fresh food departments often yield higher sales per square foot compared to processed foods. They act as a magnet, driving foot traffic and encouraging impulse purchases that benefit the entire store’s sales performance.
In conclusion, Mark Van Buskirk’s appointment as group VP of fresh at Wakefern Food Corp. is a strategic and timely decision. It aligns with the shift towards prioritizing fresh, high-quality offerings in supermarkets as key to consumer loyalty and business growth. As he steps into this pivotal role, the focus on innovation in fresh categories will likely propel Wakefern further in the highly competitive retail market.
