Irland Named President at W. Newell

Supervalu Inc. has appointed Steve Irland the new president of W. Newell, the Minneapolis-based grocer’s national produce distribution company, effective Nov. 1.

Irland will be responsible for overseeing all of W. Newell’s operations and will play an instrumental role in the company’s hyper-local approach to produce, providing high-quality fresh produce that fits the specific needs of the customers in each market it serves. Irland will report to Janel Haugarth, executive VP, and president and COO of supply chain services.

“Steve’s experience in operations, marketing, sales and advertising underscores his ability to understand our customers and to deliver results that move the business forward, making him an excellent fit to lead W. Newell,” Haugarth said. “Under Steve’s leadership, the W. Newell team will continue to deliver on the promise of high quality fresh produce that meets the local needs and preferences of our customers.”

Irland, who most recently served as vice president for banner marketing, has been with the company for more than 20 years and has held positions throughout the organization, including with Cub Foods and Jewel-Osco.

Supervalu operates 4,270 stores composed of approximately 1,160 traditional retail stores, including 820 in-store pharmacies; 1,190 hard-discount stores, of which 870 are operated by licensee owners; and 1,920 independent stores serviced primarily by the company’s traditional food distribution business.