Multi-format food and fuel retailer Giant Eagle Inc. (Pittsburgh) named Laura Shapira Karet as ceo and John Lucot as company president and coo. Both appointments are effective January 9, 2012.
Karet will succeed her father David Shapira, who will assume the position of executive chairman of Giant Eagle's Board of Directors. Shapira has served the privately-held, family-owned company for 41 of its 80 year-history, and has been ceo since 1980.
"Laura has an extensive background in food retailing and manufacturing, both within and outside of Giant Eagle," said Shapira. "Her amiable and open style has won the respect of our 36,000 Team Members, customers, suppliers and business partners."
Prior to joining Giant Eagle, Karet held marketing executive positions at Sara Lee from 1997 to 2000, and several brand management roles at Procter and Gamble from 1990 to 1997. She joined Giant Eagle in 2000 as vp, marketing and most recently served as senior executive vp and chief strategy officer.
Lucot, who started his career with the retailer in 1974 as a store clerk, has held several positions including executive positions in distribution, retail development, real estate and operations. His most recent role is coo.
Founded in 1931, Giant Eagle operates 170 corporate and 58 independently owned and operated supermarkets, as well as 166 fuel and convenience stores throughout western Pennsylvania, Ohio, north central West Virginia and Maryland.