Industry news: Walmart's executive shuffle and Pepsi's purchase

A look at the movers and shakers in the grocery industry:

APPOINTMENTS

Jason McDonell is shifting gears and changing industries. The former president of PepsiCo Foods Canada has been named executive vice-president and chief marketing officer at Advance Auto Parts. In this role, McDonell will be responsible for all marketing activities across the Advance family of brands including Advance, Carquest, Worldpac and Autopart International. He starts July 29.

EXECUTIVE SHUFFLE

Walmart has made executive changes it says will improve the overall omnichannel experience. The retail giant is combining its U.S. supply chain teams, which will be led by current executive VP of U.S. supply chain Greg Smith. Smith will report to Greg Foran (president and CEO, Walmart U.S.) and Marc Lore (head of U.S. e-commerce). Additionally, Ashley Buchanan will become chief merchandising officer for U.S. e-commerce, reporting to Lore.

ACQUISITIONS

PepsiCo has agreed to acquire South Africa-based Pioneer Foods Group for approximately US $1.7 billion. According to a press release, Pioneer Foods Group has a "robust, locally relevant product portfolio" that includes such brands as Weet-Bix, Liqui-Fruit, Ceres, Sasko, Safari, Spekko and White Star.

AWARDS

Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) recognized Member of Parliament Wayne Easter with its annual Produce Champion award. The award is given to one or more Member(s) of Parliament and/or Senator(s) who have been supportive of the produce industry and effective at bringing industry issues to the forefront on Parliament Hill.