Stemilt Growers said in a news release that Dashan Dookhu joins the company as its East Coast merchandising manager. Dookhu will fill the role held by Tim Harrington, who will retire in 2026.
Dookhu brings more than three decades of experience in the produce industry and will oversee merchandising efforts in key markets such as Toronto, Montreal, New England, New York and the mid-Atlantic
Stemilt said his focus will be to service its retail and wholesale partners while also leading the charge on promotional events, in-store samplings, food shows and the company’s well-known Cherry and Apple Colleges.
“We’re excited to welcome Dashan to the Stemilt team,” Brianna Shales, marketing director at Stemilt, said in a news release. “He’ll be stepping into the role currently held by our esteemed senior merchandising manager, Tim Harrington, who is retiring in 2026 after more than 16 remarkable years with us. While we’ll deeply miss Tim and the impact he’s made, We’re equally enthusiastic about the expertise Dashan brings from his keen insight into the retail landscape to his passion for fresh produce and natural talent for growing connections. We’re confident he’ll be a tremendous asset to our retail partners and their shoppers.”
Dookhu joins Stemilt with over 36 years of experience, having held roles with notable retailers including ShopRite and Whole Foods Market. Known for his energy and creativity, Stemilt said Dookhu is poised to be a key player in expanding its presence and enhancing the shopper experience in produce departments across his territory. Based just outside Queens, New York, Dashan brings a strong local connection to one of Stemilt’s main market locations.
“What I’ve always loved about this industry is the people,” Dookhu said. “Meeting them, training them and watching them grow is the most rewarding experience. Having spent lots of time in the produce and floral world, I understand what resonates in produce departments. I’ve lived it, and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running with our partners across the East Coast.”
Stemilt’s merchandising program helps retail partners grow the category with premium fruit and effective in-store execution.
“I see this role as more than just merchandising,” Doohku said. “It’s about inspiring confidence, building trust and helping our retail partners succeed. Whether I’m setting up a promotion or walking a store floor, I’m focused on bringing energy, ideas and a deep understanding of what drives results in produce.”
