A.F. Blakemore saw strong performance over the Christmas period with sales climbing 18% during the four weeks to 2 January 2022.
The wholesaler and distributor stated that effective planning and additional capacity generated from its new, purpose-built distribution centre in Bedford had meant it was well-positioned to meet strong customer demand.
Chairman Peter Blakemore commented: “Much of the sector had forecast a challenging operating period with predictions of supply chain failures impacting availability and the ongoing Covid pandemic affecting staffing levels. Without doubt Covid continues to impede colleague availability, however by investing and putting importance on our people capability, it has enabled us to continue to operate as normal despite Covid related absenteeism, which were similar to peak pandemic levels.”
He added: “Christmas stock management required tactical stock builds, centralisation of supply and backhaul for our suppliers; but inbound supply is still sitting six-percentage points below outbound. With our highest recorded case volume on New Year’s Eve and a forecasted 20% growth in sales by the end of the financial year, we need suppliers to invest in mitigating these issues to improve availability.”
The Midlands-based business highlighted that 2022 will begin a transitional period for its management team, with Group Managing Directors Geoff Hallam and Jerry Marwood retiring at the end of the financial year 2022 and May 2023 respectively.
Marwood will take over Group CEO responsibilities following Hallam’s retirement and implement a succession plan to ensure a smooth transition in 2023.
Blakemore added: “Geoff’s contribution to the AFB business has been substantial and I would like to thank him for his dedication and commitment during his time with us and wish him every happiness in his retirement.
“I am delighted that Jerry will be appointed to the CEO role continuing to manage the planned transition and steering the company’s strategic direction. The coming months will see further senior appointments as we structure our business in line with our long-term strategy.”
NAM Implications:
- Given the importance of wholesalers in accessing the independent base…
- Keeping wholesalers supplied seems a no-brainer?
