At this year’s annual meeting, Associated Food Stores welcomed Brandon Yule, owner of Blair’s Market in Worland, Wyoming, as the newest member of its board of directors. A third-generation grocer, Brandon brings a unique blend of military service, retail leadership and deep community involvement to the boardroom.
Brandon’s grocery career began as a high school courtesy clerk and it was a job that unknowingly planted the seeds for future success. In the years that followed, he served nearly 11 years in the Army National Guard, including two combat deployments to Iraq as a medic and squad leader. After his first tour, he returned home, married his high school sweetheart, Shalene, and briefly worked in graphic design before being deployed again.
It wasn’t until after his second deployment that Brandon began to fully embrace the family grocery business as he took on a management role at Blair’s Market. He became store director in 2014 and, in 2022, he and his wife purchased the Worland location. They now carry on the legacy of the Foulger family as third-generation independent grocers.
Over the years, Brandon has taken an active role in the AFS system by contributing to a wide range of committees and advisory boards. His involvement includes the Retail Advisory Council, Associated Performance Group, Retail Technology Advisory Board and the Personalization and Advanced Loyalty Committee.
“I believe in the power of ‘One Associated’ as we work together as a unified team of retailers and support staff,” Brandon said. “We’re only as strong as our weakest link, and I want to be part of lifting others and helping us all succeed.”
Outside the grocery world, Brandon is deeply embedded in his local community. He serves as a captain with the Worland Volunteer Fire Department and values the lessons in teamwork and communication that service has taught him.
Brandon said he hopes to bring a unique perspective to the board as both a multi-generational grocer and a single-store operator in a rural market. He believes staying relevant with technology and evolving guest expectations is critical, regardless of store size.
Alongside his wife, and their two sons, Corbin and Terek, Brandon is proud to carry on the Blair’s Market legacy. As he steps into his new role on the AFS Board, he’s committed to serving his fellow retailers with energy, experience and a deep belief in shared success.
“I’m honored to represent our member-owners,” he said. “Together, with strong communication and forward thinking, we can navigate change and continue to grow stronger together.”