Fred’s Inc. has named Michael K. Bloom president and COO. Bloom brings to Fred’s more than 30 years of experience in small-box general merchandising, supply chain management and store operations. He most recently served as the president and COO of Family Dollar Stores Inc.
Fred’s Chairman Michael J. Hayes said, “Our board of directors views this senior management addition as an important step in the process of developing the Fred’s team of the future. The hiring of Mike Bloom as president and chief operating officer and the recent naming of a new chief executive officer and a new general merchandise manager form the nucleus of a team that will bring greater innovation, improved strategic execution and renewed dedication to drive growth for Fred’s for many years to come.”
CEO Jerry A. Shore added, “Mike Bloom is a proven leader in our industry with a track record for delivering strong results. He brings to the Fred’s team expertise in both discount and chain drug retailing that touches on all key areas of our business. His extensive knowledge and experience in merchandising, operations and supply chain strategies will provide leadership to improve processes and drive customer traffic in our stores. As president and chief operating officer, Mike will have responsibility for major operational areas, including general merchandising, marketing, store operations and supply chain management.”
Prior to Family Dollar, Bloom spent more than 20 years with CVS Caremark Corp., holding a variety of positions with increasing responsibilities in merchandising and operations and rising finally to EVP of merchandising, marketing, advertising and supply chain. Before joining CVS, Bloom spent 10 years in merchandising and operations management with Virginia-based Peoples Drug Stores and the Florida division of Toronto-based Shoppers Drug Mart Corp.
Memphis, Tennessee-based Fred’s currently operates 661 discount general merchandise stores, including 19 franchised Fred’s stores, in the southeastern U.S.
