Richard Owen appointed president of Convenience Distribution Association

U.S.A – The Convenience Distribution Association (CDA) has named Richard Owen as its next president and CEO, a move that could carry significant implications for suppliers of packaged foods, snacks, and beverages. 

Owen will succeed Kimberly Bolin, who earlier this year announced her plan to retire at year’s end. He joins CDA on September 2 to begin a phased transition and will assume full leadership on November 7, when Bolin shifts into an advisory role to ensure a seamless handoff.

For packaged food and beverage suppliers, CDA serves as a vital connector to the $102 billion convenience retail sector, ensuring that products move smoothly from production facilities to distribution centers and onto store shelves. 

Under Owen’s leadership, suppliers may see renewed efforts to strengthen these supply chain links, improve efficiency, and champion distributor relationships at a national level.

Owen currently serves as president and CEO of the American Peanut Council and previously held senior leadership roles at the Produce Marketing Association (now International Fresh Produce Association). 

His deep experience navigating food supply chains, regulatory environments, and global market development gives him a strong foundation to advocate for policies that reduce operational friction and enhance distributor–supplier collaboration. 

He has a track record of driving initiatives that align industry stakeholders and modernize distribution systems, outcomes that could directly benefit packaged snack, beverage, and grocery brands looking to grow share in convenience retail.

“I’m honored to be chosen to lead such a respected organization,” Owen said. “CDA has built an outstanding record of service to its members and of championing the convenience distribution channel. I look forward to ensuring distributors’ vital role in the supply chain remains front and center.”

Bolin welcomed the appointment, highlighting Owen’s ability to quickly forge productive relationships with members and industry partners.

CDA Chair Jodi Buckner, CFO of Lyons Specialty Co., LLC, noted that Owen’s strategic insight will help CDA “turn today’s opportunities into tomorrow’s realities.”

With Owen at the helm, CDA is expected to continue expanding its advocacy efforts while creating new programs that help food and beverage suppliers optimize distribution, navigate evolving regulations, and capture emerging opportunities in a rapidly shifting convenience market.

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