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UNFI Announces Chief Operating Officer Eric Dorne to Retire from the Company in late October

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United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) announced the retirement of COO Eric Dorne, effective October 29, 2022, after 46 years in the grocery industry and 11 years with UNFI. Under his leadership, the company achieved revenues exceeding $27 billion and expanded to 56 distribution centers. Dorne will assist in transitioning responsibilities to ensure operational continuity. CEO Sandy Douglas praised Dorne's significant contributions during his tenure, especially during the integration of Supervalu Inc. in 2018 and navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

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  • Achieved over $27 billion in annual revenues.
  • Transition plan in place for seamless leadership change.
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  • None.
  • Dorne has been instrumental in helping grow UNFI to over $27 billion in revenues
  • Strong leadership team coupled with extended timeline will ensure smooth transition

PROVIDENCE, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) today announced that Chief Operating Officer (COO) Eric Dorne will retire from the Company effective October 29, 2022. Dorne has spent 46 years in the grocery industry and the past 11 years in senior leadership roles at UNFI. Dorne will continue to oversee UNFI’s operations and fulfillment network, as well as lead information technology (IT) through his retirement date, working closely with both his direct reports and the senior leadership team to ensure a smooth transition.

Eric Dorne, Chief Operating Officer at UNFI, announced he will retire from the company effective October 29, 2022. Dorne has spent 46 years in the grocery industry and the past 11 years in senior leadership roles at UNFI. (Photo: Business Wire)

Eric Dorne, Chief Operating Officer at UNFI, announced he will retire from the company effective October 29, 2022. Dorne has spent 46 years in the grocery industry and the past 11 years in senior leadership roles at UNFI. (Photo: Business Wire)

“On behalf of our board of directors, senior leadership team and all UNFI associates, I thank Eric for his tremendous vision, service, and leadership over these last 11 years,” said UNFI Chief Executive Officer Sandy Douglas. “Eric has helped UNFI navigate significant growth and change, serving as head of the integration team for the transformative acquisition of Supervalu Inc. in 2018, as well guiding the Company through the challenges and opportunities of the COVID-19 pandemic over these past two years. Eric’s foresight, planning and strategic leadership have contributed meaningfully to ensuring that UNFI is well positioned to support customer growth, implement new innovations and solutions and adapt to the rapidly changing landscape. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Eric these past ten months, and I am very happy for him and his family as he begins the transition to retirement.”

Dorne spent the first 35 years of his career in a variety of leadership roles at A&P Supermarkets. He joined UNFI as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer in 2011 and quickly established a reputation for applying fresh perspectives and creative solutions to traditional business operations. During his UNFI tenure, he served as Chief Administrative Officer and President of Strategic Business Units prior to assuming his current role as COO. Dorne has helped the Company grow to nearly 30,000 associates, 56 distribution centers and over $27 billion in annual revenue.

“I am grateful for the many opportunities UNFI has provided me over the past 11 years,” said Dorne. “I am thankful for the tremendous support from my colleagues, our board of directors and all associates throughout the UNFI network. Together, we have created an organization with great potential built on a strong foundation. I have enjoyed my 46-year journey from part-time grocery bagger to today, and I am excited to watch our next generation of leaders take UNFI to new levels of success.”

UNFI expects to share in the coming months its plans for a seamless transition of Mr. Dorne’s responsibilities following his retirement.

About United Natural Foods
UNFI is North America's premier food wholesaler delivering the widest variety of products to customer locations throughout North America including natural product superstores, independent retailers, conventional supermarket chains, ecommerce retailers, and food service customers. By providing this deeper 'full-store' selection and compelling brands for every aisle, UNFI is uniquely positioned to deliver great food, more choices, and fresh thinking to customers everywhere. Today, UNFI is the largest publicly traded grocery distributor in America. To learn more about how UNFI is Fueling the Future of Food, visit www.unfi.com.

FOR INVESTORS:

Steve Bloomquist, 952-828-4144

Steve.j.bloomquist@unfi.com

FOR MEDIA:

Jeff Swanson, 952-903-1645

Jeffrey.s.swanson@unfi.com

Source: United Natural Foods, Inc.

FAQ

What is UNFI's revenue growth during Eric Dorne's tenure?

UNFI achieved revenues exceeding $27 billion.

When is Eric Dorne's retirement effective?

Eric Dorne's retirement is effective on October 29, 2022.

Who is succeeding Eric Dorne at UNFI?

UNFI has not yet announced a successor for Eric Dorne.

How long has Eric Dorne been with UNFI?

Eric Dorne has been with UNFI for 11 years.

What major acquisition did UNFI complete during Dorne's leadership?

UNFI completed the acquisition of Supervalu Inc. in 2018.

United Natural Foods Inc

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Food Distribution
Wholesale-groceries, General Line
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United States of America
PROVIDENCE