Idaho Potato Commission names new retail promotion director

The Idaho Potato Commission says that it has hired Patrick Mills as its retail promotion director for the West and Canada, succeeding Kent Beesley, who is set to retire Jan. 31.

Mills’ journey in produce began in his family’s wholesale produce company in Denver, according to a news release. He said he started sweeping floors as soon as he was big enough to hold a broom.

“It’s a family-built business that dates back to 1913, and it’s still around today,” Mills said in the release. “The produce industry is part of me and part of my family — it’s what we do.”

Based in the Denver area, Mills began his professional career in fresh produce as a produce merchandiser at Safeway in 2000, then managed produce and floral products at Sprouts Farmers Market and Lucky’s Market, the release said. He most recently worked in produce management roles for Bashas’ and Sal Amato Produce.

“I’ve always admired how Idaho constantly works on new potato varieties and improvements in potato quality,” Mills said. “When Idaho potatoes are a prominent part of the produce department, I’ve seen how they help build bigger baskets and keep shoppers coming back for more. And the Idaho potato promotion and advertising programs are second to none.” 

Ross Johnson, IPC vice president of retail and international, said Mills will provide support to retailers in the West.

“He has managed Idaho potato merchandising and promotion during his many years of directing produce operations, so he knows exactly what retailers need to be successful with the Idaho brand,” Johnson said in the release. “We’re looking forward to watching him put his ingenuity to work!”