United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) announced a restructuring of its wholesale business to enhance customer value and drive growth.
The company will reorganize its commercial wholesale operations into two divisions: Conventional Grocery Products and Natural, Organic, Specialty, and Fresh Products.
This plan aims to improve efficiency, strengthen its operating model, and reinforce its position as North America’s leading grocery wholesaler.
Leadership Changes to Support Realignment
Louis Martin, now President of Wholesale, will become President of Conventional Grocery Products and UNFI’s Chief Commercial Officer. Mark Bushway, currently Chief Supply Chain Officer, will transition to President of Natural, Organic, Specialty, and Fresh Products while keeping his supply chain leadership role.
These leadership adjustments will address the distinct needs of the 30,000 retail locations UNFI serves. Dedicated teams specializing in merchandising, procurement, operations, and supplier services will support both divisions.
“Empowering our teams to provide a customized experience helps customers and suppliers grow profitably through a responsive operating model,” said Sandy Douglas, CEO of UNFI.
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Enhanced Customer and Supplier Collaboration
United Natural Foods plans to establish capability centers of excellence in supply chains, private brands, digital services, and professional support. These centers will work across the two divisions to build tailored programs to accelerate customer and supplier growth strategies.
Douglas emphasized the company’s dedication to improving operational execution and efficiency, particularly during high-demand periods like the holiday season. “We remain focused on strengthening service levels to customers and suppliers,” he stated.
Strategic Plan Builds Momentum
UNFI’s restructuring is the latest step in its multi-year plan, introduced during the first quarter of fiscal 2025. The company reported a strong start to the fiscal year, with positive volume trends driven by new and existing customer growth.
“Our performance this quarter serves as early proof of our strategic plan’s effectiveness,” Douglas noted during a recent earnings call. “We are committed to enhancing our efficiency, improving free cash flow, and reducing net leverage.”
About United Natural Foods
UNFI is North America’s largest grocery wholesaler, offering an extensive range of fresh, branded, and private-label products. Its diverse customer base includes natural product superstores, independent retailers, supermarket chains, e-commerce providers, and foodservice businesses across the continent.