Rick Wright, Chief Executive Officer of Market of Choice, passed away from natural causes at his home in Eugene, Oregon on Sunday, June 29th. One of the most recognized figures in Oregon’s grocery industry, Wright is remembered for his visionary leadership of Market of Choice and his philanthropic efforts in Oregon and beyond.
Wright’s involvement in the grocery industry began early. His father, Richard Wright Sr., bought a Thriftway store in Cottage Grove in 1979 and later expanded the family’s holdings to include four Food Warehouse stores, which were later rebranded as Price Chopper locations. According to the company, Wright spent his youth working in the stores.
After graduating from college in 1984, Wright worked for grocery wholesaler Supervalu before joining the family business again in 1990.
Wright built his vision on the foundation of his family’s legacy, working with his father, Richard Wright Sr. (Dick), to grow a small discount grocery chain into the largest independent, family-owned grocer in Oregon over the past 46 years. Wright knew the importance of creating a special shopping experience, taking pride in stocking more than 7,000 locally sourced products within its 12 stores across the state. He helped redefine what a grocery store can be – not just a place to buy food, but a force for sustaining local economies, fostering innovation, and nourishing the spirit of Oregon. At his core, Wright was a steward of good food, of local communities, and of people.
Always humble, Wright’s legacy lives on through his family’s philanthropy including work with Doernbecher Freestyle, Angel Hair Foundation, Food for Lane County, Kid Sports, and many others.
Personally, Wright enjoyed travelling the world to watch his wife’s dance competitions and pursue his passions — auto racing and surfing. He is survived by his wife Debbie, mother Marsha, siblings Suzyn, Craig, and Laurie, children Zach, Staci, and Sydney, and grandchildren Mina and Finley.
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