The Agnew brothers are recognised for their 40-year careers at the business, where they succeeded their father, John Agnew CBE, as joint managing directors in 1998, roles they held until 2025.

During their time with the Henderson Group, the company invested £300m of capital, growing the businesses to over 500 “company-owned and independent retail stores”. The group employs more than 6,000 people, and in 2024, recorded a turnover of almost £1.4bn, posting profits before tax of £63m.

Martin and Geoffrey Agnew jointly commented: “We are honoured to accept these awards on behalf of all our colleagues in the Henderson Group and our fantastic retailers, trade customers, and suppliers. Without their contribution, the business would not have grown as it has over the last 40 years.

“We acknowledge the guidance of our father, John Agnew CBE and our late grandfather, W.A. Agnew, who both set the standard and values for this business, including the practice of stewardship.”

The Henderson Group has held the licence to operate the SPAR brand in Northern Ireland since 1961 and is one of the partner organisations driving its expansion across the United Kingdom.

Source: Belfast Telegraph

Read more about SPAR UK

About SPAR UK

The United Kingdom became a SPAR member in 1956 when SPAR International granted a licence to utilise the SPAR brand to a group of independent wholesalers. There are five regional organisations in the UK, continually building the brand’s presence. A central office in London provides national marketing and buying services for the group. SPAR in the UK comprises independently owned and licensed retailers as well as company-owned stores.