Save Mart Names New Marketing, Merchandising Chief

The Save Mart Companies has named Chris Hooks as the company’s new chief merchandising and marketing officer. He brings with him more than 25 years of extensive experience in grocery retail, CPG/private brand, wholesale, dollar, and discount food industries.

“Understanding customer cohorts, their dynamic need states, and how to best anticipate and fulfill those needs are our top strategic priorities,” said Shane Sampson, executive chairman of the board, The Save Mart Companies. “Chris’ breadth of knowledge and experience will accelerate our ability to grow and innovate our business, attract and retain customers, and be great partners to our suppliers and associates.”

During his career, Hooks has worked in several segments including conventional grocery, discount retailing, and private label at leading companies such as HEB, Family Dollar, and Topco. Most notably, he has served as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer at Save A Lot, senior vice president of Consumable Merchandising at Family Dollar, and executive vice president at Topco Associates for Center Store, Fresh, Strategic Sourcing, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Brand Development. 

Prior to joining Topco, Chris held leadership positions at Blue Ocean Innovative Solutions, SUPERVALU, and spent 11 years at the HEB Grocery Company in Merchandising, Marketing, and Store Operations.