The Raley's Companies' Bashas' Operating Company, has promoted chief operating offer Steve Mayer to president. The Bashas' Operating Company unites Bashas', Bashas' Diné, Food City, and AJ's stores.
An industry veteran, Mayer joined Bashas' leadership team in 2020. In his new role, he will lead the store and distribution center business in Arizona and New Mexico and oversee sales and merchandising. Mayer will continue to report to Keith Knopf, president and CEO of The Raley's Companies. He succeeds Trey Basha in his new role.
SFA News Daily spoke with Mayer about the promotion.
What goals do you hope to accomplish in your new role?
I am excited to reinvigorate a purpose and true north for the organization focused on thoughtful leadership and development. I want Bashas' Family of Stores to be THE place to work in our industry and THE place to shop in our communities, and that all starts with a purpose. I am committed to the healthy growth of the business and focusing on growing future leaders and our team members.
What is your favorite part about the industry?
I am passionate about professional and personal development, so spending time encouraging and supporting new leaders as they step into their next phase of leadership has been a highlight of my career.
What sets Bashas' apart from other retailers?
Bashas' Family of Stores is uniquely positioned because of our diversity of brands, offerings, and communities that we serve. Within our portfolio are four store formats: Bashas' is our standard grocery store experience, Food City is a Hispanic and price-conscious focused market, AJ's Fine Foods has specifically catered to all things gourmet and curated, and our Bashas' Dine Markets serve 9 communities on the Navajo Nation. Each brand's tailored offerings are focused on the guests, local tastes, and local sourcing, making us a true reflection of each community that we serve.
Are there any industry trends or changes that excite you?
Personalized marketing, including ‘tailored to you' offers, helps us to get to know our guests better and truly meet their needs.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
We are grateful to be part of a family-owned company in The Raley's Companies and for their level of support and encouragement in our efforts to grow and expand. Further, the commitment to local support, local focus, and decision-making allow us to maintain our long history of connection to communities across Arizona and New Mexico.
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