Allegiance Retail Services Welcomes Back Mike Conese as Executive Vice President of Merchandising
September 16, 2026 | 2 min to read
ISELIN, N.J. — Allegiance Retail Services, LLC is pleased to announce the return of Mike Conese as Executive Vice President of Merchandising, effective September 14, 2026. In this role, Conese will report directly to Samer Rahman, President and Chief Operating Officer of Allegiance Retail Services.
Conese returns to Allegiance with extensive supermarket industry experience, strong merchandising expertise, and a deep understanding of the independent retail marketplace. His leadership, industry relationships, and knowledge of the Allegiance organization and its members will be instrumental as the cooperative continues to strengthen its merchandising programs and deliver greater value to its member stores.
“We are very excited to welcome Mike back to Allegiance,” said Samer Rahman, President and COO of Allegiance Retail Services. “Mike is a proven leader who understands our business, our members, and the importance of strong relationships with our vendor and supplier partners. He brings tremendous merchandising knowledge and industry experience to this position, and I am confident he will make an immediate and positive impact on our organization.”
As Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Conese will provide leadership and strategic direction across Allegiance’s merchandising functions, with a focus on strengthening category management, promotional programs, vendor partnerships, competitive positioning, and overall value for the cooperative’s independent retail members.
“Our members are at the center of everything we do,” Rahman added. “As we look toward the future, we remain focused on providing them with the programs, resources, leadership, and competitive advantages they need to grow their businesses. Mike’s return strengthens our leadership team and reinforces that commitment.”
Conese’s appointment is part of Allegiance Retail Services’ continued focus on strengthening its organization, investing in experienced leadership, and positioning the cooperative and its members for long-term growth.
“We have tremendous opportunities ahead of us,” Rahman said. “I am excited to have Mike back as part of our leadership team and look forward to working closely with him as we continue to move Allegiance forward.”
About Allegiance Retail Services, LLC
Allegiance Retail Services, LLC supports independent supermarket operators by providing merchandising, marketing, advertising, technology, operations, and other retail services designed to strengthen their competitiveness and long-term success. Through its cooperative structure, Allegiance works closely with its members and vendor partners to deliver value, innovation, and programs that support independent grocery retailers and the communities they serve.