Dive Brief:

• Gelson's Markets said Friday that John Bagan is no longer serving as the company's president and CEO.
• The grocer said Ryan Adams will take over the two top roles, effective immediately. Adams brings experience working for Albertsons, Vons and Pavilions. 
• The change at the top of Gelson’s leadership continues a string of key developments for the Southern California grocery chain in recent years.

Dive Insight:

With Adams’ appointment, Gelson’s is replacing an executive with nearly a decade of experience at the company. 

A Gelson’s spokesperson said Adams brings “a wealth of experience in the Southern California grocery marketplace and a proven track record of successful leadership.” More information wasn't immediately available about Adams.

The spokesperson did not say why or when Bagan left the president and CEO roles. 

Bagan joined Gelson’s as chief merchandising officer in 2016, became its chief operating officer in May 2021 and was then promoted to president the following summer. In early 2023, Bagan also became the chain’s CEO, replacing Rob McDougall, a 15-year veteran with the company who became CEO of Gelson’s in 2014. 

Gelson’s said in its CEO announcement last year that Bagan would oversee the company’s growth strategy and manage relationships with Gelson’s board of directors and parent company, Pan Pacific International Holdings (PPIH).

The Japanese retailer bought Gelson’s in 2021, noting at the time that it planned to fund additional stores for the Southern California chain. 

“We extend our appreciation to John Bagan for his contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors,” the spokesperson said.