Associated Food Stores has named Nate Copeland as the district manager for Montana, expanding his role in supporting independent grocers across the state.
Nate joined AFS after Rick Sonnemann told him about an opening for a produce specialist. He started in that role and later advanced to retail account manager before receiving his latest assignment.
“Every step has helped prepare me for this position,” Nate said. “Working in produce gave me a solid foundation in perishables and becoming an account manager allowed me to see the center store side. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors who trained and supported me.”
In his new role, Nate will guide the Montana team and ensure retailers receive support in all areas of their operations. His priorities for the year include helping stores adopt retail media network tools, strengthening competition in local markets and expanding AFS’s reach into North Dakota and South Dakota.
“Nate really knows how to connect with people and help retailers succeed,” said April Rice, vice president of retail services at AFS. “With his background in both perishables and center store, plus the leadership he’s shown in Montana, he’s the right person to help us grow in that area.”
Nate said some of the moments he’s most proud of are watching the stores he works with grow and succeed. As he looks ahead, he’s excited to see AFS expand while continuing to support and strengthen Montana’s independent grocers.
“The grocery industry has changed a lot, from COVID to shifting buying patterns to the rise of retail media,” Nate said. “You have to stay open to change and willing to learn new things.”
Away from work, Nate and his wife, Megan, stay busy raising their six children: Aleia, Ali, Teagan, Mazie, Easton and Shep, including two they adopted last year. Much of the family’s time is spent traveling for soccer tournaments and cheering on the Montana Grizzlies. They enjoy getaways to Huntington Beach, California and Disneyland and Nate loves simple comforts like pizza, time with his family and watching the TV series Yellowstone.