UNFI Names President and CEO of Retail

United Natural Foods Inc. has appointed David Best as its president and CEO of retail, effective Aug. 17.

Best will be responsible for accelerating UNFI’s retail business growth strategy while leading the company’s two retail banners, Cub Foods and Shoppers Food Warehouse, the company says.

“David’s track record of driving retail innovation, his deep industry expertise, and his shopper-centric approach make him an ideal leader to help us write the next chapter of success for our retail business,” says Sandy Douglas, CEO of UNFI. “As a Minnesota native, his connection to the local heritage of our Cub brand and his passion for the communities we serve will be invaluable as we partner with our franchisees to drive long-term, shared growth.”

Prior to joining UNFI, Best spent two years as president and chief operating officer of Coborn’s Inc., based in St. Cloud, Minn., where he implemented a new strategy to accelerate growth, expand into new categories and build the team, according to a news release. He has also served as senior vice president of omnichannel and strategic capabilities for General Mills and spent 19 years with Target, where he held a variety of leadership roles across merchandising, supply chain and business development, UNFI says.

“I’m excited to join UNFI and accelerate the retail business during such a pivotal time for the company,” Best says. “As a former UNFI customer and a Minnesota native, I have a great respect for the differentiated value UNFI is creating within our industry and for everything the Cub brand means to the community I call home. I’m energized by the opportunity to work with the UNFI team and all our franchisees as we build a bright future for our retail business.”

Best will report to Douglas and serve on UNFI’s senior leadership team.