Jim Perkins Named President and CEO of The Save Mart Companies
January 8, 2026 | 4 min to read
Forty-year retail veteran to lead award-winning 70-year grocer through continued transformation and growth
MODESTO, Calif. – The Save Mart Companies, one of the West Coast’s largest regional, full-service grocery chains, announced that Jim Perkins has been named President and CEO.
With deep roots in California’s Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies operates more than 200 stores across California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington with over 11,000 associates—more than 30% of whom have served their communities for over 20 years. This multi-generational workforce and authentic neighborhood commitment recently earned the company 2025 Retailer of the Year recognition from Progressive Grocer.
“I am honored to lead The Save Mart Companies at this pivotal moment,” said Perkins. “For 70 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to West Coast families because we understand what it means to be a true neighbor. Our associates know their communities intimately because they live and work in them, serving neighbors they’ve known for years. Our competitive advantage isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. That authentic connection, combined with our transformation across operations, formats, and digital innovation, positions us for meaningful growth while staying true to our roots.”
Under Perkins’ leadership as President, The Save Mart Companies has driven significant operational improvements and customer-focused initiatives across its Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Roth’s, and Chuck’s banners. His strategic priorities—customer centricity, operational excellence, and talent development—reflect the company’s commitment to honoring tradition while embracing transformation.
Perkins assumes the role following the retirement of Shane Sampson, who led the company as CEO since 2022. Under the ownership of The Jim Pattison Group, one of North America’s most respected private holding companies, The Save Mart Companies has the capital structure and long-term stability to support continued investment in technology, formats, loyalty, and supply chain modernization.
“Jim exemplifies the leadership qualities and community commitment that define both The Save Mart Companies and The Jim Pattison Group,” said Ryan Barrington-Foote, President of The Jim Pattison Group. “His deep understanding of West Coast grocery, proven track record of operational excellence, and dedication to developing people make him the ideal leader to guide this award-winning company into its next chapter. We’re excited to support Jim and this exceptional team as they build on 70 years of trusted service to their communities.”
In 2026, the company will open new locations, complete major remodels, and expand merchandising assortments across all banners.
Jim Perkins: Background
- A Sanoma, California native with more than 40 years in the grocery industry
- Previously served as President of The Save Mart Companies, leading Store Operations, Merchandising, and Marketing
- Spent the first 12 years of his grocery career in California before leading teams across the United States, including Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Idaho
- Returned to California in 2004 to lead the Lucky banner in the Bay Area
- Recognized for developing next-generation grocery leaders and driving operational excellence, earning national recognition including the Maryland Food Industry Council Hall of Fame, Pete Manos Retail Executive of the Year, two-time MAFTO Retail Executive of the Year, and the New Jersey Food Industry Council Retail Executive of the Year
- Holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix
About The Save Mart Companies
The Save Mart Companies operates more than 200 stores across California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington under the Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Roth’s, and Chuck’s Fresh Markets banners. Proud to be one of the West Coast’s largest regional, full-service grocery chains, the Company and its 11,000 associates take extra care to provide customers with the freshest food for their families at affordable prices. The Save Mart Companies’ philanthropic non-profit organization, The CARES Foundation, provides vital resources for children and families and has donated over $5 million to local communities. For more information, please visit: www.TheSaveMartCompanies.com