John Harris is back at Associated Food Stores as the new category manager for general merchandise, bringing nearly 30 years of grocery experience with him.
John first joined AFS in 1996, beginning a career that spanned more than 22 years across multiple departments and leadership roles. After leaving AFS in 2019, he returned in December 2025 and now leads general merchandise programs, including seasonal and impulse offerings, for independent retailers across the AFS network.
“I’ve been in the grocery industry since I was 16,” John said. “It’s fast-paced, always changing and full of opportunity. Most of all, it’s about people and products and that’s what continues to motivate me.”
John said his broad background has prepared him well for the GM role. His experience ranges from store-level operations to leadership positions and procurement work at the corporate office. That perspective, he said, helps him understand both retailer needs and customer expectations.
As a GM category manager, John oversees seasonal programs that support retailers through product selection, promotions and coordinated in-store and digital merchandising. “It’s rewarding and fun,” he said. “Seasonal products change with holidays and trends and impulse items bring energy to the store.”
One of John’s favorite parts about working at AFS has been coaching and mentoring team members and seeing them grow into new roles. He also highlighted the company’s “Campus Strategy,” which expanded AFS’ business portfolio by adding ACE Hardware locations near grocery stores. It is an approach now seen at many locations.
John has witnessed significant change in the grocery industry since the 1990s, particularly the introduction of plan-o-grams and the rise of intense competition, including online retail. “We’ve had to stay educated, nimble and efficient,” he said. “Those qualities are essential if we want to keep competing and winning.”
Looking ahead, John said his goals include refreshing seasonal assortments, strengthening promotions and exceeding budget expectations. He also plans to focus on personal growth, health and wellness alongside professional development.
“I’m thrilled to welcome John back to AFS,” said Steve Skinner, director of center store. “His experience spans nearly every role in grocery, giving him a unique perspective on what our retailers need and what customers expect. John’s passion for merchandising and his detail-oriented approach will be a huge asset as we strengthen the One Associated system. I’m excited to put John’s skill set to work as he and the team revamp AFS seasonal efforts in 2026 and beyond.”
For those just starting at AFS, John’s advice is simple: set goals, stay curious and enjoy the culture. “Apply yourself in ways that benefit the company, the team and yourself,” he said. “And have fun.”
John said what sets AFS apart is its independent retailer spirit, strong culture and shared desire to win.
Outside of work, John lives in South Jordan, Utah, with his wife, Michelle. They are empty nesters with two children, Rylee and Cody, and two dogs. He enjoys camping, exploring the outdoors, live music and spending time with family and friends. A ranching and farming background shaped his work ethic, and his first W-2 job was as a courtesy clerk at Skaggs Alpha Beta.
When he’s winding down, John favors a home-cooked meal, especially tomato soup with a grilled ham and cheese, and he recommends the book Creating Magic by Lee Cockerell for its leadership lessons. His entertainment tastes lean toward Westerns and the television series Landman.