Following earlier rumours, Unitas Wholesale has confirmed that former Nisa exec Victoria Lockie has joined the buying group as its new Retail Director.
She stepped down from her position as Head of Retail at Nisa earlier this year after working for the symbol group since 2012. Before that she worked at Costcutter for more than 25 years, latterly as Head Of Customer Services.
Unitas stated that the appointment reflected its investment and ambition to grow its retail offer and capabilities. In her new role, Lockie will be tasked with continuing the development of the group’s Plan for Profit category management scheme, its retail and wholesale promotional programmes, and the rollout of its Local Living own brand range.
Unitas Wholesale Managing Director John Kinney commented: “We are delighted to have Victoria leading the next phase of the implementation of our retail strategy. She is the perfect choice to continue our growth in retail, supporting our members in building an attractive symbol group offering and expanding the reach of their retail clubs.”
Lockie added: “The group provides such a vital service to both independent wholesalers and retailers. It’s a tough time for independent retailers at the moment, and the promotions, category advice and value own brand range we have to offer are all vital to help our independent retailers compete in today’s marketplace.
“Unitas hosts some of the biggest, best, and importantly, entrepreneurial wholesalers, and I am looking forward to working with these members, in partnership with our suppliers, to drive our retail agenda forward.”
