DOWNERS GROVE, IL - 2019 has been a year of change for Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, as the company has reconsidered both its retail strategies in the wake of a changing consumer climate and shaken up its executive department with key promotions and appointments. The latest change for the retailer comes in the form of its President and CEO’s departure. Since the company began in 2012, Chris Sherrell helped lead Fresh Thyme to an operation outfitted with 77 stores.
“I am extremely proud of the company I was able to build as well as our mission of bringing fresh and healthy food at an amazing value to dozens of communities,” said Sherrell. “As happens with many entrepreneurs, as Fresh Thyme has matured, I am ready for my next challenge.”
Gerald Melville has been selected to lead Fresh Thyme in the role of President. A 39-year retail veteran, Melville joins Fresh Thyme from Meijer, where he was a Regional Vice President of Stores, overseeing operations for nearly 50 Meijer supercenters in Illinois and Wisconsin.
“I’m very pleased about this exciting opportunity,” said Melville. “Fresh Thyme is a dynamic brand with an ideal offering for today’s health conscious customer. I’m looking forward to joining the team and working together to continue the company’s growth and success.”
Prior to joining Meijer in 2009, Melville held a variety of senior leadership roles with Albertson’s and SuperValu, including broad responsibility for store operations, customer service, labor, food safety and asset protection.
Congratulations to Gerald on this new role, and we wish Chris all the best in his next chapter!
