Rick Anicetti Quits as The Fresh Market CEO

On the heels of Ian McLeod’s exit from the top spot at Southeastern Grocers LLC, The Fresh Market revealed that Rick Anicetti has resigned as CEO and board member, citing no reason for his departure. CFO Brian Nicholson has been named interim CEO, effective immediately, taking on the position as well as to his current role.

In a statement, the company provided no comment on its search for a replacement for Anicetti.

“Along with Mr. Nicholson, The Fresh Market’s current senior leadership team will continue to execute the company’s strategic plan and adapt as needed to the evolving marketplace,” The Fresh Market noted in the statement.

Nicholson has been the company’s SVP and CFO since returning to The Fresh Market in September 2016. From 2004 to 2012, he held a variety of positions at the company, among them VP in the business strategy, financial planning and analysis function from 2005 to 2012.

“The Fresh Market’s board of directors has great confidence in Mr. Nicholson as the right person to guide the company in this interim period as it continues to focus on delivering excellent service and delicious, fresh food,” the company added.

Anicetti joined the company in 2015 and proceeded to focus on revitalizing the fresh-focused format's center store, among other attempts to create growth opportunities for the specialty grocer.

Based in Greensboro, N.C., The Fresh Market Inc. operates 176 stores in 24 U.S. states.