Tops Markets names new produce leaders
Tops Friendly Markets has promoted Matthew Blair to category business manager, produce - fruit desk. This move shifted Justin Rowe over to Tops category business manager for produce-vegetable desk, where he made a seamless transition from the fruit desk.
In his new role, Blair will be responsible for developing and managing the procurement and merchandising program for the fruit category to achieve budgeted sales, gross profit, inventory turns and service levels. He will work directly with buyers, pricing and space management to maximize support for assigned categories, select new items and develop merchandising programs that allow his assigned categories to meet or exceed projected goals.
Blair comes to the company from Price Chopper/Market 32 with 24 years of produce experience. He has held various produce-related roles during his tenure, including produce clerk, assistant team leader – produce, team leader – produce, produce/floral specialist and junior category business manager - produce, a position he held until being promoted. He currently resides in Liverpool, NY, with his wife and children.
Rowe has been with Tops for 25 years. He has worked at several stores over the years and has held various positions such as produce clerk, assistant prepared foods manager, customer operations manager, non-perishable operations manager, perishable operations manager, assistant store manager and store manager for the Tops in Dansville, NY. He resides in York, NY, with his wife.
