A.F. Blakemore has announced changes to the leadership team in a move designed to “consolidate retail knowledge” across its SPAR portfolio.
Matt Teague has been promoted to Managing Director of Retail to lead both the group’s SPAR divisions – Blakemore Retail and Blakemore Trade Partners. He was previously Managing Director of Blakemore Retail.
A.F. Blakemore CEO Carol Welch said: “It is recognised that through greater collaboration, the skills, talent and the sharing of knowledge and experience across company-owned and independent SPAR stores, we can accelerate our company-owned and independent retailer growth.
“Matt and his team will be accountable for driving growth in fresh food to go and food for later, acquiring, partnering, extending, and re-furbishing stores to improve our retail sales per square foot and delivering excellent operational standards and service for our customers.”
Other changes include Louis Drake becoming Retail Sales Director (formerly Commercial Director, BTP) and taking responsibility for building sustainable sales and profitable growth through stronger commercial partnerships.
Tom Blakemore has become Retail Development Director (formerly Commercial Director, Fresh Foods), responsible for growing and developing the quality of the group’s store portfolio across its SPAR and Philpotts brands.
Meanwhile, Steve Gale, Head of Formats Excellence, will be responsible for working collaboratively to develop customer-focused retail store formats across SPAR and Philpotts brands.
Teague will also be supported by Chris Bacon, Store Operations Director, and Steve Gale, Head of Formats Excellence.
The company noted that its new organisational structure was designed to foster collaboration both within the organisation and with external partners, enabling A.F. Blakemore to deliver its “forward-looking strategy”.
Welch added: “The last few years have brought their fair share of challenges and opportunities to A.F. Blakemore. Following a strong financial performance in 22/23 driven by our SPAR retail estate, we are committed to sustaining this growth by meeting customer needs, and establishing robust relationships with our valued suppliers and partners.”
