Central Garden & Pet Company announced that Tim Cofer, Chief Executive Officer since October 2019, has informed the Board of his intent to depart Central, effective as of the close of business on October 6, 2023. Mr. Cofer will join Keurig Dr Pepper, initially as Chief Operating Officer, and will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer in the second quarter of 2024. Beth Springer, Central?s Lead Independent Director, has been named as Interim Chief Executive Officer while the Board conducts a comprehensive search for a permanent successor.

Springer has served on the Central Board since 2013 and brings extensive experience in management, operations and consumer products. She spent over 20 years with The Clorox Company, serving in multiple management roles including Executive Vice President and General Manager of The Clorox Company. Springer also serves as an independent director of Amy?s Kitchen, a privately held organic food company, and previously served as an independent director of Nature?s Sunshine Products Inc., a publicly traded natural health and wellness company.