General Merchandise/HBC

Tobacco, E-Cig Veteran Joins Convenience Valet

Consumer products distributor names new regional sales manager

MELROSE PARK, Ill. -- Gina Simmons has joined Convenience Valet to drive sales growth in the Southeast for the distributor of trial- and travel-sized consumer products.

She brings more than 20 years’ experience in sales, growth and knowledge of the convenience-store channel.

Simmons started her career in 1997 with Philip Morris, where she held various positions including territory manager, unit manager and senior account manager for both chain and wholesale accounts, generating more than $450 million in revenue for her company.

She left the company in 2014 for an electronic-cigarette startup company, Ballantyne Brands. At Ballantyne, she led sales and growth for more than three years with a focus on national retail chains such as Speedway, Dollar General, The Pantry and QuikTrip.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Gina join our team,” said Doug Steffen, vice president of sales for Convenience Valet, Melrose Park, Ill. “We know that her leadership, skills and energy are perfect for our company. She will certainly help us build on our success in the Southeast while finding new ways to grow.”

Simmons’ focus will include fostering relationships with new customers, creating lasting partnerships and expanding the overall awareness of Convenience Valet. She will also be a key driver of new programs including Nicorette launch, Vital 4 U and other exclusive programs in her areas.

Convenience Valet specializes in repacking as well as distributing top brands of health, beauty and personal care products, automotive supplies and other general merchandise to various outlets including convenience stores, airport shops, hotels, cruise ships, college bookstores, dollar stores, wholesale distributors and more.

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