The Happy Egg Co in the US, has announced it is replacing its executive management team.
In a statement, the company said David Wagstaff, president and chief operating officer; Jen Danby, chief marketing officer; and Jon Hayman, vice president of operations, will be succeeded by Neil Turpin, general manager; and Kristin Herzog, chief marketing officer. David Wagstaff, Jen Danby and Jon Hayman will stay on for a period of time to ensure a seamless transition, the firm said.
The free-range egg brand was launched in October 2012, and today has more than 700,000 free range laying hens, has grown to more than $30 million in brand value and is sold in more than 7,500 grocery stores.
“Growing the happy egg co from startup phase to the leading US true free range brand brings me great personal and professional satisfaction,” said Wagstaff. “Since the beginning, the happy egg co leadership team has been committed to hen welfare and implementing an industry model that supports higher farm animal welfare practices, sustainable farming methods and supply chain transparency. We’ve clearly established a platform for the most affordable humanely produced eggs available and, as a result, built an enviable customer base. With 20% sales growth year-to-date, the happy egg co is currently delivering exceptional growth in the most challenging egg market for decades. Following five years driving this fast paced launch into the US and delivering strong brand growth, it is now the right time for a new team to continue driving the business forward. The new leadership team is poised to achieve success through the next phase of growth.”
Neil Turpin is a veteran of the food and beverage industry and will lead the happy egg co. in its next phase of growth. The company said he would assume Wagstaff’s position as the business visionary and will set the strategic direction for the company. “The happy egg brand will look to continue to aggressively build on the amazing platform created by the outgoing management team through delivering and driving further operational efficiencies, investment in brand and shopper marketing programs and supporting point-of-purchase consumer activity, while driving growth of the happy egg co in the egg category,” he said.