Key facts
- Stew Leonard Jr. is transitioning leadership of the family grocery business after 44 years as president.
- His daughter, Blake Leonard, will assume the role of president.
- His nephew, Jake Tavello, will take over as CEO.
- The company is implementing a four-year planned handover process.
- Stew Leonard's operates eight stores and employs over 2,500 people.
Stew Leonard Jr., who has led the family-owned grocery chain Stew Leonard's for 44 of its 57 years, is preparing for a generational transition. His daughter, Blake Leonard, will step into the role of president, while his nephew, Jake Tavello, will become CEO. This handover is part of a meticulously planned four-year process aimed at ensuring the continued success and family ownership of the beloved Connecticut institution, known for its unique, entertainment-filled store experience.
The transition comes at a critical time for family businesses, with a significant portion of US business owners over 55 and facing the challenge of passing wealth and leadership to subsequent generations. Research indicates a steep drop-off in business survival rates beyond the second generation, making Stew Leonard's endeavor a potential case study for other family enterprises.
Stew Leonard's, often called the "Disneyland of grocery stores," features animatronics, petting zoos, and costumed characters, a concept pioneered by founder Stew Leonard Sr. The company operates eight locations across Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, employing over 2,500 people. Unlike many large companies that go public, Stew Leonard's remains privately owned, with six third-generation family members currently employed, including recent promotions.