FiveStar Gourmet Foods, producers of the Simply Fresh brand, continues to solidify its commitment to retail with another addition to its sales team. Phil Abreo has been appointed vice president of sales west and joins recent addition Kate Brooks, who was appointed vice president of sales east. Both Brooks and Abreo will report into newly hired industry leader, Kristyn Lawson, who was named senior vice president of sales.
Phil AbreoAbreo started his career as an Albertson’s store manager and brings over 19 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, most recently as sales director at True Food Innovations. He previously held senior level positions with Naked Juice, owned by Pepsi Co., where he created one of the brands most successful variety pack products which propelled sales over $140 million. Abreo has lead account growth within the military, retail, convenience and foodservice channels. He received an undergraduate degree from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona.
“I am thrilled to bring on such incredible talent like Phil to support our retail sales growth and strengthen our formidable sales organization,” said Tal Shoshan, FiveStar’s chief executive officer. “Phil brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise within the fresh, prepared food space and has developed long standing and meaningful customer relationships that reflect his strong professional reputation.”
The demand for the Simply Fresh salads, snacks and fresh meals has grown tremendously, especially in the West where Abreo’s focus will be. FiveStar has tripled its manufacturing footprint in recent years and will soon move into a $55 million new, expanded headquarters and production facility located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, which features a Culinary Innovation Center.
“Phil is such an incredible asset to the team. It truly is a testament to FiveStar’s commitment to grow the Simply Fresh brand in retail and I am confident that we will continue the rapid growth of these fresh, convenient and delicious products," said Lawson.
Abreo began his role in early April and reports into the Ontario, CA, headquarters.
