Rick Wilkins Joins Bed Bath & Beyond as VP for Western Region

September 9, 2020  by Laurie Northington in Business Strategy, Industry   

Wilkins will report directly to Gregg Melnick, EVP and chief stores officer, and will play a key role in the planning and execution of the company's store optimization strategy.

Wilkins will oversee operations for approximately 300 of Bed Bath & Beyond's retail stores across 20 states, and execute the previously announced store optimization plan as the company continues to enhance its digital-first, omni-always shopping experience online and in-store. He will join a cross-functional team responsible for implementing a suite of new store capabilities, including further improvements to Buy-Online-Pickup-In-Store, Curbside Pickup and same day delivery services. The team also plans a robust reimagination of store operations, including enhanced customer service, improved product assortment and better communication of value in-store, as well as expanded capacity to support faster, more efficient customer order fulfillment in-store or at home.  

"We are creating a truly omni-always shopping experience to support the digital-first shopping preferences of our customers,” said Melnick. “Our comprehensive store network is key to the 360-degree shopping experience we can provide, allowing customers to buy online or through our app and enjoy contactless Curbside Pickup from one of our stores within 2 hours of ordering. Rick is an expert retail operator, whose deep experience driving profitable growth and an omni-always in-store experience will help us make it even easier to feel at home with Bed Bath & Beyond."  

Wilkins joins Bed Bath & Beyond from Gap Inc., where he was territory vice president for Old Navy, leading one of the highest profit-generating territories for the brand. Prior to his tenure at Gap Inc., Wilkins held roles at Starbucks Coffee Company and Target Corporation, where he executed plans to maximize store efficiency and implemented profit-improving measures across markets. 

"At a time when home is everything, I am thrilled to join this iconic brand to serve its millions of loyal customers and help rebuild its authority in the Home market,” said Wilkins. “In this digital-first shopping environment, stores are more important than ever to engage and inspire, while offering a faster, more convenient shopping experience. I'm excited to play my part in helping accelerate the omni-always transformation of the business and finding new ways to improve the way we serve our customers."