Allegiance Retail Services has promoted Samer Rahman to president and chief operating officer, effective immediately, the company announced July 27.
Rahman succeeds Joseph Fantozzi, who is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities. Fantozzi joined Allegiance in 2016 as vice president of customer development before being promoted to chief financial officer in 2020 and president and chief operating officer in December 2023.
Rahman most recently served as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer. In his new role, he will oversee Allegiance’s day-to-day operations, supply chain logistics, store services and merchandising programs across the retailer-owned cooperative’s network of independent supermarket banners.
According to the company, Rahman will focus on supporting store growth, improving member profitability and strengthening the competitive position of banners including Foodtown, Pathmark, Gristedes and D’Agostino.
“Samer represents the absolute best of the grocery industry,” said Jason Ferreira, chairman and chief executive officer of Allegiance Retail Services, in a statement. “Over the last decade at Allegiance, Samer has consistently lowered costs for our members, elevated our merchandising programs, and built deep trust with our vendor community.”
Rahman has more than 35 years of grocery industry experience spanning both corporate and independent retail. Before joining Allegiance in 2013, he held leadership positions with Pathmark, A&P and Food Bazaar.
During his tenure at Allegiance, Rahman has served as director of meat and seafood, vice president of perishables, vice president of center store and, most recently, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer. Earlier this year, he was recognized by the New Jersey Food Council during its Night of Distinction awards program.
“I am incredibly honored to step into the role of president and chief operating officer at such a pivotal time for independent retail,” Rahman said in a statement. “I look forward to working closely with our corporate team and our members to drive operational efficiencies, launch innovative store programs and build on the momentum we have established at Allegiance.”
Allegiance Retail Services provides marketing, merchandising, technology and operational support to independently owned supermarkets throughout the Northeast. The cooperative supports banners including Foodtown, Freshtown, D’Agostino, Gristedes, Pathmark, Pathmark Daily, LaBella Marketplace, Brooklyn Harvest, Market Fresh, Big Deal Food Market, Green Way Markets and Shop n Bag.