Fred’s Super Dollar names new merchandising, store ops and supply chain execs

Memphis, Tenn. -- Fred's Super Dollar has announced several key management changes, including the appointment of Walgreens veteran Bryan Pugh as chief merchandising and marketing officer.



In other changes, Craig Barnes has been promoted to executive VP supply chain, global and domestic logistics; and Mike Holligan has been promoted to executive VP store operations.



"Working together with Mike Bloom, our president and COO, we are now assembling a solid, experienced management team that complements our pharmacy team to drive growth in market share and improve profitability," stated Jerry Shore, Fred's CEO. "We are very excited about how this team has come together and the opportunities ahead for Fred's."



Bryan Pugh brings to Fred's 30 years of retail experience. Among his many roles at Walgreen's for the last six years, he served as chief merchandising officer responsible for $27 billion in sales.



Prior to Walgreen's, Pugh worked for Tesco, where he was executive VP operations for Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets, COO and senior VP merchandising and marketing for Tesco Lotus Stores.



In his short time as general merchandise manager at Fred’s, Barnes built a sourcing team, instituted improved processes and developed programs that promote supply chain improvements. The new initiatives and teamwork provides a solid foundation for Pugh and the entire Fred's organization to build upon.



Holligan's extensive experience in store operations began at Wal-Mart, where he spent 18 years before joining Fred's. While at Fred's, Holligan has successfully worked as district manager and regional VP store operations. He was a key leader in achieving store labor savings and inventory control while in those positions.



Currently, Fred's operates 661 discount general merchandise stores, including 19 franchised Fred's stores, in the southeastern United States.