Superior Grocers, one of Southern California’s largest independent supermarket chains currently operating 70 locations, announced that its president, Richard Wardwell, has been promoted to CEO of the company, effective January 30, 2023.
Mimi Song, the founder of Superior Grocers, will be stepping down from the CEO position and will remain Chairman of the company.
“On behalf of Superior Grocers, I am proud to announce Rich as President and CEO,” stated Song in a press release. “For over eight years at Superior, he has proven to be a great leader with the vision to expand on the success Superior has built over the past 42 years. He is passionate about the industry, and his relentless pursuit of excellence has positioned us for success. Under his leadership, we acquired Número Uno, and I look forward to the next phase of growth and expansion.”
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Wardwell brings more than 40 years of grocery retail experience. He began his career as a courtesy clerk and continued to advance in his profession, experiencing the many ranks of the grocery industry.
He was director of operations for SaveMart, VP of operations for Raley’s Food Source Division, and in 2014, became VP of operations for Superior Grocers. Wardwell held the roles of SVP of operations, COO, and his current role as President.
In an interview with Abasto last year, Wardwell said the best way to do a good job is to listen to his customers, who are primarily Hispanic, to become a better retailer.
“We are proud to serve this community, which is our lifeblood. We hire from that community; we participate in that community. We are that community,” Wardwell said.
In his new role as President and CEO of Superior Grocers, he will continue to oversee all aspects of the company.
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the next President and CEO,” Wardwell said. “Very proud of what our team has been able to achieve during these exciting times. I will continue encouraging our leaders, team members, and partners to achieve even greater success in providing quality, variety, and value to our customers.”