Midwestern retailer SpartanNash has pulled the plug on its Fresh Kitchens meal solutions program and accepted the resignation of its president/CEO.

SpartanNash made the decision to exit its Indianapolis-based Fresh Kitchen operations to improve operating earnings and EBITDA results within its Food Distribution segment, according to the company.

The retailer says it will shift its focus and expertise to its produce distribution and fresh-cut operations, which have been the hallmark of the Caito Foods business SpartanNash purchased in 2017. The Fresh Kitchen is a facility that cooks and packages fresh protein-based foods and complete meal solutions for a number of different customers.

Dave Staples has resigned as SpartanNash’s president/CEO. The company’s chairman, Dennis Eidson, will serve as interim president/CEO effective immediately until a replacement for Staples is found.

"The Board remains confident in the company's strategic direction and its ability to generate top line growth; however, execution has fallen short of our expectations and we believe that now is the time for a leadership change," says Douglas Hacker, lead independent director of the retailer’s board. "I want to thank Dennis for returning to the leadership position to guide the company's efforts in revitalizing performance and maximizing long-term shareholder value. On behalf of the board, I also want to thank Dave for his contributions to SpartanNash throughout his tenure. Since joining the Company in 2000, Dave has presided over numerous successful business initiatives and has been instrumental in driving SpartanNash's growth."