GC Names Truesdale Chairman of the Board of Directors

Guitar Center has announced the appointment of retail veteran Tony Truesdale as chairman of the Board of Directors. The current chairman, Norman Axelrod, will remain as member of the board.

Truesdale previously was CEO of Vitamin Shoppe, Inc., a national multi-channel specialty retailer of nutritional products, before his retirement in 2015. During his time at Vitamin Shoppe, Truesdale helped drive long-term growth, increase EBITDA and grow the number of retail stores from 300 to 800 nationwide. He also was instrumental in taking the company public in late 2009.  

Prior to his time at Vitamin Shoppe, Truesdale worked for PetSmart from 1999-2006 in various marketing and merchandising roles and prior to that served for 20 years in senior management, operating and merchandising roles at various supermarkets in England and the United States.   

“We are pleased to have Tony as our new Chairman,” said Ron Japinga, president and chief executive officer of Guitar Center. “With his 30 years of experience in retail, we look forward to the major contributions Tony will make to help us achieve our goals and grow our business.”  

“I am excited to assume the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors for Guitar Center,” said Truesdale. “Guitar Center is well-positioned to continue its growth, and I am looking forward to working with the team as it continues to build the retail and online businesses.”