Longtime Ralphs CEO to Give Up Post, Will Become Chairman

In a move that shifts most day-to-day management duties to another executive, Byron Allumbaugh will relinquish his position as chief executive of Ralphs Grocery Co. to become chairman of the supermarket chain, the company said Tuesday.

Allumbaugh, who held the chief executive post for 21 years, will be replaced by Vice President George Golleher. Golleher was president of Food 4 Less Supermarkets Inc., the supermarket chain that merged with Ralphs in June.

Food 4 Less Supermarkets converted its Alpha Beta, Boys and Viva stores to Ralphs stores after its parent company, Los Angeles-based Yucaipa Cos., acquired Ralphs Grocery Co.

Yucaipa, chaired by Ron Burkle, controls supermarket chains in Northern California and the Midwest and Ralphs stores in Southern California.

The company also said Ralphs President Al Marasca will retain his title and take on the additional responsibilities of managing supermarkets and warehouses.

Analysts had expected Golleher to succeed Allumbaugh, 64. Industry observers said the changes are designed to establish a transition structure for the future.

Allumbaugh will continue to oversee the company’s real estate activities and strategic initiatives. In his new role, Allumbaugh will also represent Ralphs in trade and civic events, the company said.

Ralphs surpassed Vons as Southern California’s largest supermarket chain after its merger with Food 4 Less Supermarkets. Ralphs also operates the Food 4 Less warehouse stores, a discount grocery chain.