C&S Wholesale Grocers Names Christopher Brown SVP, Indy Sales

C&S Wholesale Grocers has appointed Christopher Brown its SVP, independent sales, effective Sept. 29, as the company continues to expand its independent business.

"C&S has a long tradition of providing for the individual needs of its customers," noted Brown, who has spent his career in executive leadership positions in the distribution and supply chain industry, servicing independent retailers and regional chains. His most recent role was as an executive consultant to national distributors and regional retailers. Before that, he was with Minneapolis-based Nash Finch Co. (now SpartanNash) for 11 years as EVP, procurement/merchandising; EVP, food distribution; and eventually president/COO.

"Christopher is joining C&S at a time when we are putting immense focus on our independent business," said Rick Cohen, the company's chairman and CEO. "His expertise about the unique requirements of independent retailers will be a perfect complement to the strong service we already provide to our independent, chain and large-grocer customers."

Keene, N.H.-based C&S is the largest U.S. wholesale grocery supply company, supplying 5,000 independent supermarkets, chain stores, military bases, and institutions with more than 150,000 products.