US drugstore chain Rite Aid is strengthening its leadership team following its recent emergence from bankruptcy, bringing in Bryant Harris as its new senior vice president and chief merchandising officer.
In his new role, Harris will oversee product selection, procurement, pricing strategies, visual merchandising and store design.
He will also collaborate closely with store operations and marketing teams to enhance the shopping experience for customers.
Harris arrives from Wakefern Food Corporation, where he spent nearly five years as chief merchandising officer. Before that, he served as chief commercial officer at discount grocer Save A Lot and held various roles over 15 years at Sam’s Club.
“As we continue to strengthen our business and accelerate our transformation plan, we are pleased to welcome Bryant to Rite Aid,” said CEO Matt Schroeder, who stepped into the role last September.
“As an accomplished leader driven by excellence, Bryant will be a great addition to the team to help further our mission to provide thoughtful, personalized experiences that support our customers’ health and wellness goals.”
Rite Aid currently operates 1,253 stores across 15 states, though its footprint has shrunk significantly due to store closures tied to its 2023 Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
Harris expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating: “I am excited to join Rite Aid to continue advancing the merchandising strategy that delivers a compelling product mix and a shopping experience that meets our customers’ expectations.
“I look forward to collaborating with the team and our suppliers to ensure we provide the products our communities need to live their healthiest life.”
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