Bono Appoints Russ Stirmell as Director of Sales for Midwest & Southeast

MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY – April 30, 2026 – Bono, Sicily’s largest producer of extra virgin olive oil, today announced the appointment of Russ Stirmell as Director of Sales – Midwest & Southeast of Bono USA. Stirmell will support sales strategy and execution across regional markets, helping to drive continued growth across retail channels.

In his new role, Stirmell will oversee sales efforts throughout the Midwest and Southeast, with a focus on strengthening distributor relationships, supporting broker networks, and accelerating retail growth. He will play a key role in expanding Bono USA’s regional footprint while ensuring alignment with the company’s broader national sales strategy.

“Russ brings a deep understanding of the retail landscape and a proven ability to build strong, lasting partnerships across regions,” said Jon Kalina, Chief Executive Officer of Bono USA. “His experience across distribution, brokerage, and branded CPG will be instrumental as we continue to expand our presence nationwide.”

Stirmell joins Bono USA with more than 35 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, bringing a strong background across distribution, private label, food brokerage, and branded CPG sales. Prior to joining Bono, he served as Senior Business Development Manager at Woodstock Farms. He previously held sales leadership roles at HIPPEAS Snacks, Peeled Snacks, and Blue Marble Brands, where he oversaw Central U.S. markets.

“Specialty food sales has always been about more than just numbers to me; it’s about building partnerships by understanding my customers’ needs, and bringing them quality products that add value,” said Stirmell. “I’m excited to bring that mindset into this next chapter with Bono USA.”

As Bono USA continues its expansion across the United States, the addition of Stirmell reflects the company’s ongoing investment in experienced sales leadership and regional infrastructure to support sustained growth.

Bono’s full range of products are available at select supermarkets – including Whole Foods, Wegman’s, Stop & Shop, ShopRite, The Fresh Market, and more – in addition to specialty stores like Eataly, as well as Amazon. For exact locations, visit the Bono store locator.

About Bono 
Established in 1934, Bono is Sicily’s largest producer of authentic extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). The family-owned company is based in Sciacca – located in the Val Di Mazara – a region coveted for its terroir and considered one of the best in the world to produce high-quality EVOO. Bono also owns multiple facilities across Sicily and Italy, with its U.S. division and distribution center based in Landing, NJ and Montclair, NJ.

Bono’s core mission is to focus on regionality, sustainability and innovation through certifications for all its products. Our award-winning EVOOs come with six different certifications: PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or PGI (Protected Geographical Indication), USDA Organic, Clean Label Project, OU Kosher, Gluten Free and NON-GMO. Bono’s PDO and PGI EVOOs receive their own unique serial numbers, which are traceable to the exact farm and olives used, ensuring full production transparency. The company’s collection of fine Italian products also includes a full line of Sicilian and Italian Table Olives, Tuscan-Crafted Pasta Sauces, Sicilian Marmalade, and Calabrese Peppers. All Bono products originate from a particular region with the belief that what grows together, goes together. We believe in taking what is best from each region and portraying this in our award-winning line of products.

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