Daily Archives: April 10, 2012

BJ’s grows local produce program

Posted on by
Reply
 
April 10, 2012 | By Gail Hoffer
WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — BJ’s Wholesale Club is capitalizing on the growing demand for locally-grown produce by launching its “Farm to Club” program in each of its 195 clubs in 15 states. Rolling out this spring and summer, the Farm to Club program includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that will be clearly marked with a special “Farm to Club, Locally Grown” seal.

BJ’s defines “local” as grown in the state, so naturally availability of certain produce depends upon the weather and growing season for each item in each state. The company touted the benefits of buying local produce, claiming that doing so ensures it is at its peak flavor and nutritional value and that the local economy is being supported.

“As a buyer at BJ’s, I strive to provide the very best produce for members,” said Rob Johnson, produce buyer for BJ’s Wholesale Club. “The Farm to Club program is very good for both the members who buy the local fruits and veggies and the farmers who are growing our food.”

Currently, Farm to Club produce is available in all Florida clubs. For more information on the program.

McD USA central division president Mike Andres retires

Posted on by
Reply
 
April 10, 2012 | By Mark Brandau
McDonald’s Corp. has confirmed that Mike Andres, president of Oak Brook, Ill.-based McDonald’s USA’s central division, will retire on Sept. 1.

According to a report, McDonald’s USA’s chief restaurant officer, Lee Renz, will succeed Andres this fall.

During his 30 years with the company, Andres also served as president and chief executive of the Boston Market chicken chain from 2000 to 2007, when McDonald’s sold the brand. Prior to that post, Andres had been senior vice president and restaurant support officer of McDonald’s Midwest division.

As president of the central division, Andres oversaw 4,400 restaurants in seven geographic regions encompassing 24 states.

“We thank Mike for his unwavering dedication and commitment to brand McDonald’s for more than three decades,” the company said in a statement. “We wish him and his family the very best as he pursues the next phase of his life. Today’s announcement reinforces McDonald’s commitment to developing people and showcases the deep bench of talent at this level who are ready to move into these leadership roles.”

McDonald’s Corp. operates or franchises more than 33,000 restaurants in 119 countries, including more than 14,000 locations in the United States.