The Save Mart Companies has named Jim Perkins as president and CEO.
With deep roots in California’s Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies operates more than 200 stores across California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington with over 11,000 associates — more than 30% of whom have served their communities for more than 20 years, according to a news release. This multigenerational workforce and authentic neighborhood commitment recently earned the company 2025 Retailer of the Year recognition from Progressive Grocer.
“I am honored to lead The Save Mart Companies at this pivotal moment,” Perkins says. “For 70 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to West Coast families because we understand what it means to be a true neighbor. Our associates know their communities intimately because they live and work in them, serving neighbors they’ve known for years. Our competitive advantage isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are. That authentic connection, combined with our transformation across operations, formats and digital innovation, positions us for meaningful growth while staying true to our roots.”
Under Perkins’ leadership as president, The Save Mart Companies says it has driven significant operational improvements and customer-focused initiatives across its Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Roth’s and Chuck’s banners. His strategic priorities, such as customer centricity, operational excellence and talent development, reflect the company’s commitment to honoring tradition while embracing transformation.
Perkins assumes the role following the retirement of Shane Sampson, who has led the company as CEO since 2022. Under the ownership of The Jim Pattison Group, The Save Mart Companies says it has the capital structure and long-term stability to support continued investment in technology, formats, loyalty and supply chain modernization.
“Jim exemplifies the leadership qualities and community commitment that define both The Save Mart Companies and The Jim Pattison Group,” says Ryan Barrington-Foote, president of The Jim Pattison Group. “His deep understanding of West Coast grocery, proven track record of operational excellence and dedication to developing people make him the ideal leader to guide this award-winning company into its next chapter. We’re excited to support Jim and this exceptional team as they build on 70 years of trusted service to their communities.”
In 2026, the company says it will open new locations, complete major remodels and expand merchandising assortments across all banners.
Jim Perkins: Background
- A Sonoma, Calif. native with more than 40 years in the grocery industry.
- Previously served as president of The Save Mart Companies, leading store operations, merchandising and marketing.
- Spent the first 12 years of his grocery career in California before leading teams across the U.S., including Florida, Idaho, Maryland, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia.
- Returned to California in 2004 to lead the Lucky banner in the Bay Area.
- Recognized for developing next-generation grocery leaders and driving operational excellence, earning national recognition including the Maryland Food Industry Council Hall of Fame, Pete Manos Retail Executive of the Year, two-time MAFTO Retail Executive of the Year, and the New Jersey Food Industry Council Retail Executive of the Year.
- Holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
