FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dave Heylen, V.P. Communications California Grocers Association
Tel: 916.448.3545
Fax: 916.448.2793
E-mail: [email protected]

California Grocers Association
1415 L Street, Suite 450
Sacramento, CA 95814

SACRAMENTO, CA – (July 6, 2010) – The California Grocers Association has named Doug Scholz Senior Director of the newly created position of Business Development and Strategic Partnership, effective July 9.

In this new position, Scholz is responsible for maintaining and expanding CGA’s current revenue stream while developing new business opportunities. His responsibilities include managing the Association’s annual conference, membership, industry events, sponsorships and fundraising efforts.

“As CGA looks to diversify its revenue sources in light of our ever changing economy, it became apparent that the Association should place greater emphasis on strengthening CGA’s relationships with its valued partners and explore new opportunities,” said Association President and CEO Ronald Fong.

Scholz brings to CGA more than 23 years of experience in marketing and partner development. Most recently, Scholz was Director of Partner Marketing for the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau in Sacramento, CA. Prior to that, he was Director of Sales and Premium Seating for Maloof Sports and Entertainment. He also held various marketing positions for Viacom International in its Paramount Parks Division.

“Doug possesses the talent and qualifications we were seeking for this new dynamic position at CGA,” said Fong. “His skill set and leadership qualities will allow his team to develop new business opportunities for the Association and strengthen relationships with our strategic partners.” In addition to his responsibilities as Senior Director of Business Development and Strategic Partnership, Scholz will oversee a department that includes the director of Events & Sponsorships and the Association’s membership manager.

“I am very excited to be joining CGA’s management team and working to enhance the long-term, strategic relationships for the organization,” Scholz said.

The California Grocers Association is a non-profit trade association representing the food industry since 1898. CGA represents approximately 500 retail members operating over 6,000 food stores in California and Nevada, and approximately 200 grocery supplier companies. Retail membership includes chain and independent supermarkets, convenience stores and mass merchandisers.

SACRAMENTO, CA – (July 1, 2010) – Pam Poggi, Vice President, Corporate Human Resources Development for Safeway Inc., has been named Chair of the California Grocers Association Educational Foundation Board of Trustees.

In this capacity, Ms. Poggi will direct the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, comprised of grocery retailers and suppliers from throughout California.

“Pam Poggi is an excellent appointee for this important position,” said CGAEF President Ronald Fong. “Her knowledge, leadership abilities and vision will help the Foundation reach the next level. I look forward to working with her.”

For more than 25 years, Ms. Poggi has built a strong career in the human resources field. She began her career as a Personnel Officer for what is now Bank of America. In 1995, she transitioned to Safeway and was promoted to her current position in 2004.

Ms. Poggi is a graduate of the University of Southern California’s Food Industry Management Executive Program. Under her leadership, her department was awarded the Food Marketing Institute’s Maximizing People Award for Safeway’s Retail Management Training.

“I am honored to be elected to this key role and look forward to serving the association and its members in this leadership capacity,” she said.

The Foundation’s objectives include:

• Conducting industry research and sharing information
• Promoting and encouraging educational and employment opportunities
• Developing training and educational methods and materials
• Promoting and encouraging community service programs

“In order to achieve our objectives, my vision includes a strong partnership with CGA’s Board of Directors to ensure that we align our strategic direction regarding the programs and services we offer to our members,” Ms. Poggi said.

“Our offerings will be strengthened by building solid relationships with the Food Marketing Institute, the National Grocers Association, and the Western Association of Food Chains as well as collaborating with other educational foundations to learn and incorporate best practices,” she added.

Formed in 1992 as a 501(c)3 corporation, the CGA Educational Foundation is dedicated to providing educational opportunities and research programs that benefit all segments of California’s food industry.