The Save Mart Companies CEO retires. Who is managing operations now?
The Save Mart Companies has announced the retirement of its CEO of nearly four years, Shane Sampson, as well as the appointment of the next.
Jim Perkins has been with the company since 2004, when he took leadership of the company’s Lucky banner. In 2024, he became president, leading store operations, merchandising and marketing of the parent company and has now been named president and CEO.
“For 70 years, we’ve been a trusted partner to West Coast families because we understand what it means to be a true neighbor,” Perkins said in a statement. “Our associates know their communities intimately because they live and work in them, serving neighbors they’ve known for years.”
The Jim Pattison Group, based in Canada, purchased The Save Mart Companies mid 2024. Under its ownership, the grocery store chain “has the capital structure and long-term stability to support continued investment in technology, formats, loyalty and supply chain modernization,” according to a news release.
This year, the company will open new locations, complete major remodels, and expand merchandising assortments across all banners, according to the news release said.
Timeline of The Save Mart Companies leadership through the years
The Save Mart Companies was established in 1952 on Crows Landing Road in Modesto. Though it is no longer a family-owned business, the company has previously assured Central Valley residents that its dedication to the region remains.
1952 - Brothers-in-law Nick Tocco and Mike Piccinini open first Save Mart grocery on Crows Landing Road in Modesto.
1971 - Save Mart President Mike Piccinini dies at age 55 from a heart attack.
1985 - Bob Piccinini, Mike Piccinini’s son, buys the company from family members and begins tenure as CEO.
1995 - Nick Tocco, who served as company president for several years, dies at age 77,
2015 - Bob Piccinini dies at age 73.
2016 - Nicole Pesco, Bob Piccinini’s daughter, takes over as company CEO.
2021 - Chris McGarry takes over as company CEO and is the first non-founding family member to hold the position.
2022 - The Save Mart Companies is acquired by Los Angeles-based private equity firm Kingswood Capital Management LP. Shane Sampson becomes CEO.
2024 - The Jim Pattison Group of Canada purchases The Save Mart Companies.
2026 - Jim Perkins is named president and CEO.
This story was originally published January 8, 2026 at 12:16 PM.
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