Lou Gentine to retire from Sargento; son Louie will become CEO
Lou is a second-generation family owner of Sargento. He has served as CEO since 1981 and Chairman since 1996.
Lou Gentine (photo, left), Chairman and CEO of Sargento Foods Inc., announced on Monday that he will retire as Chief Executive Officer at the end of the year and that the Board of Directors has approved the promotion of Louie Gentine to CEO.
Lou is a second-generation family owner of Sargento. He has served as CEO since 1981 and Chairman since 1996. During his tenure in these roles, sales have increased from $80 million to $1.2 billion, employment has increased from 300 to over 1,600 and Sargento has become an established leader in the retail, food service and ingredient cheese industries. Lou credits the entire Sargento team - past and present - and their passion for cheese, innovation and the company’s culture for the growth and success of the company. Their commitment to the business philosophy established by his father and company founder, Leonard Gentine, “Hire good people and treat them like family,” is the basis for the vibrant corporate culture that has distinguished Sargento throughout its history. Lou will retain his position as Chairman of the Board.