Since she joined the firm in 2014, she has been a vital part in the transformation of the brand in her joint role of CFO/COO of SPAR Netherlands. She not only positively improved the retail portfolio and modernisation of the retail division but she was also responsible for the introduction of new conditions for retailers.

During Edith’s tenure, the number of stores grew strongly and the retail contribution was improved; furthermore there is now the right infrastructure in place to optimise the retailers’ operations in the future.

CEO of SPAR Netherlands, John van der Ent said “Edith and her team have delivered fantastic results, the retail portfolio is once again healthy and retailers are now motivated to take the next steps in our drive to be the number 1 in convenience retailing in the market.”

On 1 October, a new management structure for SPAR Netherlands will be put in place and this also marks Edith Appel’s date of departure. The further development of SPAR Netherlands will be facilitated through this new structure:

• The CFO/COO role will be split into that of CFO and a new position of Operations Director, supporting the next steps in the professionalisation of the retail operation processes with appropriate systems.
• The CFO role will be expanded to include IT, ensuring that the growing importance of data driven retail is emphasised in the future-proofing of the organisation.

Edith Appels said “I look back with much pleasure and satisfaction at the past five years during which we have delivered excellent results as a team. SPAR Netherlands is a company with committed employees and motivated independent retailers with so much more potential for convenience for our valued shoppers. I leave knowing that the company is in good hands and will no doubt enjoy more success in the coming years. I am delighted that Pim Dirckx, one of the current operations managers, will be taking on the operations portfolio in the new management structure. It is time for me to take on a new challenge.”

Saskia van Walsum, chairperson of the Board of Directors thanked Edith for her substantial contribution to the development of SPAR Netherlands and the excellent results which had been delivered, wishing her success in the next phase of her career.

More information about the new management structure will be made known in due course.

Source: SPAR Netherlands