SALISBURY, N.C., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Tom Robinson, vice president and chief operating office of Harveys Supermarkets, has been named chairman of the Georgia Food Industry Association (GFIA). He will serve as chairman for a two-year term.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091014/CL92307)

"It is an honor to be named chairman of the Georgia Food Industry Association," said Robinson. "I have been involved with GFIA for a number of years and I highly respect the organization. I look forward to working with the board members and leading the association for the next two years."

The Georgia Food Industry Association is a trade association dedicated to representing the interests of Georgia's grocers and suppliers to legislators and regulatory agencies. It represents more than 200 chain and independent retail members operating more than 700 stores, along with 12 wholesale members operating across the state.

In his role with GFIA, Robinson will oversee all board operations and activities. He will also work closely with the GFIA president, Kathy Kuzava, to manage the effectiveness of the board directors and committees and ensure the organization meets its goals over the next two years.

"Tom's energy level and his commitment to excellence make him a perfect fit as the Georgia Food Industry's newest chairman," said Kuzava. "I am confident in his ability to provide a lasting contribution to the association in his role as chairman."

As vice president and chief operating office of Harveys Supermarkets, Robinson is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company's retail stores and distribution network. Prior to joining the Harveys banner, he was vice president of Retail Operations for both Food Lion's Central and Southern Divisions.

Robinson earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from East Carolina University. He currently serves as a director for the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame and is a national vice president of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

About Harveys

Harveys is an affiliate of Food Lion LLC, a subsidiary of Brussels based Delhaize Group (DEG) (NYSE: DEG). Harveys operates 70 stores in Georgia, Florida and South Carolina.

SOURCE Food Lion LLC