‘Store Brands’ names new associate brand director

Maggie Kaeppel has joined Store Brands as its new associate brand director. Kaeppel, who has spent most of her career in business-to-business publishing, previously spent six years as the eastern marketing manager for Progressive Grocer, Store Brands’ sister publication. Both publications are owned and operated by Chicago-based EnsembleIQ. “I love the fast-paced nature of retail business-to-business media,” Kaeppel said. “I really like working with my customers, and I genuinely enjoy helping them to be successful with their retailer partners.”

Kaeppel has also worked for media brands in the pharmaceutical and health care industries, including Drug Store News, another EnsembleIQ property. The graduate of Northern Illinois University said the grocery industry is “dynamic,” and an industry “that never stops innovating to meet the needs of today’s grocery shoppers,” especially with private brands.

“Store brands offer retailers an opportunity to differentiate themselves from their competition,” she said.

Kaeppel worked at Jewel Osco as a cashier while in high school. The job helped her learn about the industry.

“I will bring my passion for retail grocery, and my knowledge and experience in the industry to Store Brands,” she said.

Kaeppel will be based in Chicago.