The Georgia Food Industry Association (GFIA), which represents the legislative and regulatory interests of over 200 chain and independent retail members operating more than 700 stores, along with 12 wholesale members operating across the state, has named Tom Robinson, VP and COO of Harveys Supermarkets, its chairman. Robinson, who has been involved with GFIA for a number of years, will serve a two-year term.

As chairman, Robinson will oversee all board operations and activities. He will also work closely with GFIA president Kathy Kuzava to manage the effectiveness of the board directors and committees and ensure the organization meets its goals over the next two years.

“Tom’s energy level and his commitment to excellence make him a perfect fit as the Georgia food industry’s newest chairman,” said Kuzava.

At Harveys, Robinson handles the day-to-day operations of the company’s retail stores and distribution network. Before joining the banner, he was VP of retail operations for both Food Lion’s Central and Southern Divisions.

Operating 70 stores in Georgia, Florida and South Carolina, Harveys is an affiliate of Salisbury, N.C.-based Food Lion, LLC, a subsidiary of Belgian retail conglomerate Delhaize Group.