Weis Markets' CEO out, replaced by interim leader

SUNBURY, Pa. (AP) -- Weis Markets Inc. said Monday that its CEO left "to pursue other interests" and has been replaced on an interim basis by the company's vice chairman.

The grocery chain said that CEO and President David Hepfinger, 55, left and also resigned from the board. He joined the company in 2008 as chief operating officer and was promoted to CEO in 2009.

Vice Chairman Jonathan H. Weis, 46, was named interim CEO, and Robert F. Weis remained chairman.

While a reorganization is underway, executive vice president of sales and merchandising Kurt Schertle will also oversee store operations, the company said.

Weis Markets operates 165 supermarkets in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and West Virginia.

The shares rose $1.12, or 2.3 percent, to close at $50.38. They have gained 29 percent in 2013.