Fred's names Efird new president

MEMPHIS, Tenn. Fred’s earlier this week named Bruce Efird president, who will join the company Sept. 22.

Efird will succeed John Reier, who will continue at Fred’s as vice chairman.

"We are excited to welcome Bruce Efird to the Fred’s executive team following an intensive, nine-month search," stated Michael Hayes, Fred’s chief executive officer. "Bruce brings extensive merchandising, marketing and management experience from various retail venues. Fred’s has focused on addressing infrastructure changes and merchandising upgrades in 2007 to be in a position to drive growth over the next five years. We believe Bruce possesses the leadership and strategic skill sets to maximize Fred’s long-term potential. We also commend John Reier for the dedication he has shown to our company for the past eight years, and we are delighted to know that we will retain his seasoned merchandising insight and experience on our board following this transition."

To ensure an orderly transition in leadership, Reier will work closely with Efird during the remainder of the current fiscal year.

Efird most recently served as executive vice president, merchandising, for Meijer where he was responsible for all merchandising functions, including softlines, home furnishings, drug store, general merchandise, groceries and perishables.

Fred’s, Inc. operates 701 discount general merchandise stores mainly in the southeastern United States, including 24 franchised Fred’s stores.