64�SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2025�ABASTO.COM FOOD INDUSTRY By Hernando Ramírez-Santos H eritage Grocers Group an- nounced the resignation of Suzy Monford from her dual role as Chairperson and Chief Exe- cutive Ofcer, less than a year af- ter she took the reins of the fast- growing Hispanic grocery chain. Monford, who joined the company in November 2024, stepped down this week to pursue other profes- sional opportunities, the company said in a press release. Her depar- ture triggers a significant leadership shakeup at the nation’s largest His- panic and ethnic food retailer. To ensure continuity, the board of directors has named grocery industry veteran David Hirz as chairman and es- tablished an interim Ofce of the CEO composed of four senior executives. LEADERSHIP TRANSITION SIGNALS STRATEGIC SHIFT Monford’s departure comes during a period of rapid expansion and ope- rational transformation for Heritage Grocers Group, which operates 115 stores across six states under ban- ners including Cardenas Markets, El Rancho Supermercado, Tony’s Fresh Market, and Los Altos Ranch Market. Before leading Heritage, Monford was CEO of Food Sport Internatio- nal, where she advised global food retailers on financial strategy and value creation. While at Heritage, she focused on streamlining ope- rations and improving brand align- ment across its regional chains. The company did not disclose the reason for her departure, only no- ting that she had chosen to leave to explore other opportunities. Heritage Grocers Group Shufes its Leadership Team DAVID HIRZ APPOINTED BOARD CHAIRMAN As part of the transition, the board named David Hirz as its new chair- man. Hirz brings more than 40 years of experience in the grocery industry, having held top executive roles at Food 4 Less, Ralphs, and most re- cently as CEO of Smart & Final. Hirz joined the Heritage Grocers Group board last year and has since become closely familiar with the company’s stra- tegic priorities and customer base. “Heritage has a unique ability to serve communities with authenticity— and we’re committed to carrying that forward,” Hirz said. “The board thanks Suzy for her contributions and leader- ship. I look forward to supporting the exceptional team in place as we begin the search for a new CEO.” OFFICE OF THE CEO TO GUIDE OPERATIONS In the absence of a permanent chief executive, an interim Ofce of the CEO will lead day-to-day opera- tions. The team includes: Prabash Coswatte, Chief Ope- rating Ofcer Leticia Espinoza, Chief Admi- nistrative Ofcer & General Counsel Matthew Holt, Chief Financial Ofcer Frank Ingrafa, Chief Trans- formation Ofcer and CEO of Tony’s Fresh Market This executive group will steer the company’s ongoing initiatives and ensure business continuity during the leadership search. HERITAGE GROCERS GROUP BEGINS CEO SEARCH The board has launched a compre- hensive national search for the next CEO, supported by a top executive search firm. The board seeks a leader who will drive long-term growth whi- le staying rooted in the company’s core values: afordability, authentici- ty, and community service. Headquartered in Ontario, Califor- nia, Heritage Grocers Group has po- sitioned itself as the go-to grocer for Hispanic and multicultural commu- nities. Its store banners are known for ofering culturally relevant foods, fresh produce, and competitively pri- ced household staples. FOCUS ON STABILITY AND GROWTH Despite the leadership change, the company says its mission remains unchanged. “The strength of Heritage Gro- cers Group lies in our people, our customers, and the deep trust our communities place in us,” Hirz said. “We’re committed to strengthening that bond while finding the right lea- der to take us into our next phase.” The leadership transition comes amid increased competition and consolidation in the grocery indus- try, particularly among retailers tar- geting multicultural consumer seg- ments. With experienced leadership in place and a strategic search un- derway, Heritage aims to continue building on its momentum and ex- panding its reach in key markets.