Fallow Collective
Randall "Barton" Howard is an entrepreneur, retail expert, and a former head of asset protection. Barton was recruited to work as a Security Manager at Rouses Markets, the 7th largest independent grocer in the United States, where he rose through the ranks serving as Vice President of Asset and Profit Protection until July of 2021. He helped support the expansion of Rouses Markets from 27 stores to 65 and increased AUM from $375M to $1.3B.
In early 2021, Barton partnered with Rocky Patel Premium Cigars to create Tubeaux by Rocky Patel, bringing his invention to the global retail marketplace in partnership with one of the largest manufacturers of premium cigars in the world. Tubeaux is a global patent pending, tech-enabled turnkey humidor service. Recognizing underserved needs for independent retailers, Barton founded Circle the Wagons (CTW) Group Purchasing Organization in 2018 to serve independent grocery retailers across the country. Barton is a serial entrepreneur, works closely with Callais Capital, which has backed two of his ventures, and is associated with several other well-known brands such as GATR Coolers, Beast Brands, and Mallard Bay.
He currently serves on the retail advisory board for Retailer Owned Food Distributors & Associates (ROFDA) and leads innovation strategy on behalf of the National Grocers Association (NGA).