New York, USA – King Kullen has announced the appointment of Tracey Cullen as its new President and Chief Operating Officer, making her the first woman to lead the company since its founding.
A fourth-generation member of the founding family, Cullen succeeds Joseph Brown, who is retiring after more than five decades of service with the company. Her appointment reinforces King Kullen’s commitment to leadership that combines family continuity, operational expertise, and strategic vision to navigate the evolving challenges of today’s retail landscape.
Cullen joined the organization in 2010 and has held several leadership positions across operations, marketing, strategic planning, and corporate initiatives. Throughout her tenure, she has played an active role in the company’s growth and transformation efforts.
“It is a privilege to take on this responsibility at a company that has been part of my family’s history for generations,” Cullen said following the announcement. She also emphasized King Kullen’s longstanding commitment to the communities it serves throughout Long Island and the importance of preserving the values that have defined the company since its inception.
Cullen is the great-granddaughter of Michael Cullen, widely recognized as one of the pioneers of the modern supermarket concept in the United States. In addition to her new role, she serves on the company’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee, while also participating in several business and community organizations across Long Island.
Her promotion is part of a broader leadership transition within the company, which recently announced additional executive advancements in key management and operational positions.
A Landmark Name in American Retail
Founded in 1930, King Kullen holds a unique place in U.S. retail history. The company is recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as America’s first modern supermarket, thanks to the innovative concept introduced by Michael Cullen, which combined self-service shopping, discounted pricing, and specialized departments under one roof.
Today, King Kullen operates 28 locations throughout Long Island, including traditional supermarkets and Wild By Nature stores specializing in natural and organic products.
Despite the significant changes that have reshaped the grocery industry over the years, King Kullen remains family-owned and operated, maintaining a strong regional presence and a legacy of innovation that helped transform the American supermarket industry.
