FreshDirect, the Northeast’s leading online fresh food grocer, announced September 6 that after 20 years of service, founder and CEO Jason Ackerman has stepped down from his role as chairman and CEO. Co-founder David McInerney is assuming the role CEO and will join the board of directors.
This change comes as FreshDirect moves into a new chapter of continued growth, expansion, and innovation. This year, the company finalized its move to its new FreshDirect Campus, a brand new state-of-the-art facility in New York City’s South Bronx community that reimagines farm-to-fork food distribution and manufacturing, and will provide even higher-quality, fresher food for customers. The announcement also comes two years after the company expanded its portfolio with the launch of FoodKick, an on-demand business for city residents that offers a curated selection of food, alcohol, and essentials.
“Over the last 20 years, we have built and grown this business into an industry leader, one that truly makes a difference in the lives of our customers. Building FreshDirect and FoodKick alongside an incredible group of talented people has been a tremendous experience. I am confident the team will continue to drive the business forward and stay true to our unwavering commitment to deliver the best quality food with outstanding customer service,” Ackerman said.
McInerney said, “Jason and I have worked together since the beginning and we are very proud of what we have accomplished over the years. This is a very exciting time for the company as we settle into our new home. I look forward to working with the entire FreshDirect team as we usher the company into this next chapter of growth.”
McInerney has served in several leadership roles at FreshDirect, most recently as chief merchandising officer overseeing food sourcing, buying, and merchandising as well as travelling around the globe to develop relationships with FreshDirect’s producer partners.
Ironically, the day before Ackerman’s departure from FreshDirect was announced, Hart Dairy named him the newest member of its advisory board.
Based outside of August, GA, Hart Dairy is the largest single-source producer of 100 percent free-range, grass-fed milk in North America.
“We are delighted to have Jason Ackerman join the Hart Dairy advisory team,” said Hart Dairy CEO Tim Connell. “Jason’s vast expertise in supermarket and specialty retail categories is invaluable to support Hart Dairy as we continue to grow into the future.”