Keene, New Hampshire-based C&S Wholesale Grocers has announced that CEO Bob Palmer will retire on Oct. 2, with Chief Operating Officer Eric Winn succeeding him.
Palmer, who will continue to serve on C&S’ board of directors, will work with Winn in the months ahead to ensure a smooth transition.
Since his appointment as CEO in October 2020, Palmer has been responsible for all aspects of the company strategy, growth plan, customer satisfaction and day-to-day operations. He has more than 30 years of industry experience, including having served as C&S’s chief procurement officer and head buyer.
Palmer was inducted into The Shelby Report’s Food Industry Hall of Fame in 2019.
“The foundation of C&S’s success has always been our people. Today’s announcement demonstrates that this legacy remains strong,” said Rick Cohen, chairman.
“Bob was appointed CEO during extraordinary times – the pandemic and the resulting impact on our industry. Bob was critical in effectively leading C&S through these challenges and driving long-term growth.
“Bob has been a well-respected leader and customer partner. I am excited to have his continued dedication, leadership and guidance as a member of our board of directors.”
As chief operating officer, Winn was responsible for all operations, transportation, customer development and expansion. Since joining C&S in 2004, he has held several leadership positions across the company.
He previously served as president of commercial, leading the organization in support of independent and chain customers, as well as driving C&S’s expansion in the retail market.
“Eric has been visionary in transforming our operations to drive long-term sustainable growth,” Cohen said. “He has been deeply invested in ensuring that C&S will continue to be a market leader, while developing a pipeline of strong talent in every aspect of our operations.
“I look forward to Eric continuing C&S’s strong legacy of braggingly happy customers.”
