SPAR UK Ltd announces three new Director appointments at its Central Office based in Harrow. The new Directors, whose positions begin immediately, will play a key role in delivering the high level of support, service and value that SPAR independent retailers and customers require, whilst also working with suppliers.

Trudy Hills has become Trading Director – Grocery, with Simon Mitchell promoted to Trading Director – BWS, Fresh and Frozen and further bolstering the Central Office team, Jamie Seymour has advanced to SPAR Brand Director.

Nick Bunker, Non-Executive Chair of the SPAR Food Distributors Board, said: “We are delighted to congratulate Trudy, Simon and Jamie on their promotions. This is a reflection of their continued effort and contribution to the SPAR Central Office team.”

SPAR UK has seen success this year since launching innovative and channel exclusive new product development, outperforming the sector in various categories. The retailer attributes a proportion of its growth to its ability to deliver value to customers through its promotional campaign, supported by increased marketing and digital activity in stores.

Strong own brand offer

In own label, SPAR UK launched a customer focused initiative to grow sales and boost SPAR’s best own label ranges across the entire UK SPAR estate twelve months ago. The initiative was so successful in driving sales of own label products that it is being rolled out further in 2024.

Nick Bunker adds: “We remain focused on working in partnership with our suppliers to deliver strong commercial terms, innovative new product development and compelling promotions to our regional distribution centre shareholders, independent SPAR retailers and consumers. We also recognise the increasing importance of the SPAR Brand portfolio to our retail propositions and continue to evaluate strategies to further develop our brand.

“Our relentless drive to increase footfall and basket spend for our retailers, to keep prices low for our customers, combined with our ability to adapt quickly and bring newness into the convenience sector is resulting in excellent results. Disrupter brands wanting to increase their awareness are looking to us as the route to market and we are excited for year ahead.”

Source: SPAR UK

Read more about SPAR UK

About SPAR UK

The United Kingdom became a SPAR member in 1956 when SPAR International granted the SPAR licence 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 UK comprises independently owned, licensed, retailers and company-owned stores.