Each year, the case lot sale is one of the most critical events for Associated Food Stores, requiring precision, planning and collaboration across multiple departments. For a team of relatively new procurement buyers, this year’s sale served as a major test of their skills and adaptability, and they passed with flying colors. Over the past few years, the AFS procurement team has undergone significant changes due to retirements and promotions within the Center Store team. This shift has introduced a new generation of buyers, many of whom have stepped into leadership roles sooner than expected. Among them are Chelsie Russell (2021), Chante Johnson (2022), Logan Hubbard (2022), Kate Rundell (2023), Dez Skinner (2024), and Sadie Plymale (2024). Despite their limited tenure, these buyers demonstrated remarkable initiative and commitment as they tackled case lot buys.
“These relatively new buyers have already faced some tough challenges—recovering from COVID disruptions, navigating ransomware attacks on forecasting software, and dealing with tariff threats,” said Todd Bell, vice president of procurement. “Yet, they’ve risen to the occasion and are proving themselves as the future of AFS procurement.”
The case lot sale requires more than just selecting products, it demands strategic forecasting, supplier negotiations and coordination with distribution logistics. The team spent hours planning quantities, working with the SCOPE team to strategize inventory flow, and aligning with Project ROAR, the company’s distribution center automation initiative. One of the biggest challenges was ensuring enough stock to meet demand while avoiding overstock once the promotion ended.
Key considerations included assessing seasonal demand, potential panic buying influenced by media reports on tariffs, and managing product placement between the Farr West Distribution Center and outside storage (BDO). Additionally, unexpected hurdles, such as supply chain disruptions and timing issues with product arrivals, required quick problem-solving and strong teamwork.
“We always say it takes years of experience to truly master procurement, but these buyers have accelerated that learning curve,” Todd noted. “Kate and Chelsie carried much of the case lot weight this year, and their confidence has skyrocketed. They’re learning to trust themselves and the team, and it’s been incredible to watch their growth.”
The success of the case lot sale is a company-wide effort that involves distribution, advertising, marketing, retail teams and others working in unison. From supplier negotiations and demand forecasting to warehouse logistics and in-store execution, every department plays a role in ensuring a seamless shopping experience for customers.
Looking ahead, these new buyers are already shaping the future of AFS procurement. Their ability to adapt, solve problems and drive profitability demonstrates their long-term potential.
“We are seeing the next generation of AFS procurement,” said Todd. “They are ‘Built to Build’, and they’ve already proven they have the talent to keep us competitive and prepared for the challenges ahead.”