Grocery CEO retiring after 49 years
Posted/updated on: March 5, 2026 at 1:31 am
TYLER — Brad Brookshire, the grandson of Brookshire Grocery Company founder W.T. Brookshire, is retiring as the chain’s CEO after working in his family’s business for 49 years. According to our news partner KETK, Brad Brookshire spent 20 years as the company’s chairman of the board and 10 years as CEO. Brad has also worked as a Brookshire store director, vice president, executive vice president and as president of the company.
According to a Brookshire press release, Brad Brookshire was part of the creation of the Super 1 Foods banner over 41 years ago. During his time as CEO, Brookshire Grocery Company grew from 152 stores to 222 stores.
In 2020, Brad Brookshire was named to Governor Greg Abbott’s Strike Force to Open Texas as the representative for the state’s grocery industry. That same year, he was also inducted into the Food Industry Hall of Fame.
In 2024, Brad Brookshire was given the grocery industry’s highest honor the Food Industry Association’s Sidney R. Rabb Award.
“From growing up in this company and watching my grandfather lead the company, to stepping into the shoes myself, it has been the greatest honor to be Chairman and CEO of Brookshire Grocery Company,” Brad said. “BGC’s success has always been driven by our employee partners, our customers, and our communities, and I’m thankful for the support that has carried this company forward for nearly a century.”
Brookshire Grocery Company has named chief operating officer Jerry LeClair to serve as Brad’s interim replacement as CEO. LeClair joined the company in 2019 as an executive vice president and chief marketing officer.
“Brad’s leadership has shaped BGC in profound and lasting ways,” LeClair said. “He has led with integrity, humility, and a genuine care for people, ensuring that BGC continues to thrive while honoring the company’s heritage. Brad strengthened the foundation laid by our company founder and we are determined to continue his legacy. As a team, we will remain focused on serving our customers and supporting our employee-partners.”
Brad will be honored at a retirement celebration event to be hosted this Spring. The Brookshire Grocery Company remains as a family-owned business even following Brad’s retirement from leadership.
More than 17,000 workers are employed by the Brookshire Grocery Company across Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma.
