Associated Food Stores has named three longtime team members to new leadership roles within its retail services team. The changes highlight the company’s focus on helping independent grocers, and AFS, continue to grow and thrive.
Javier Tapia has been named director of business development. Javier, who joined AFS in 2008, has served as a retail counselor and director of retail, building strong relationships with retailers across the company’s service area. In his new role, he will focus on identifying opportunities for store growth and expansion.
Jamie Stevenson has been appointed director of retail counseling. Jamie began his grocery career in 1990 and has spent more than 30 years in store operations and management, most recently serving as a retail account manager at AFS. He will lead efforts to support retailers with counseling and operational guidance.
Nate Copeland has been promoted to district manager for Montana. Copeland started with AFS as a produce specialist before advancing to retail account manager and later team lead for Montana retailers. He oversees support for stores across the state and helps guide growth throughout the area.
“Each of these leaders brings valuable experience and a deep commitment to the success of our retailers,” said April Rice, vice president of retail services at Associated Food Stores. “Javier, Jamie and Nate have built strong relationships across our members and I’m confident their leadership will help us continue to grow and support independent grocers.”
Watch Team News for more details about each of these leaders in upcoming issues.