A.F. Blakemore unveils new leadership team to leverage retail strength

A.F. Blakemore has announced changes to the leadership team to consolidate retail knowledge across its SPAR portfolio. Under the new leadership, Matt Teague is promoted to managing director, retail to lead both SPAR divisions, combining Blakemore Retail and Blakemore Trade Partners. 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 refurbishing stores to improve our retail sales per square foot and delivering excellent operational standards and service for our customers.” The company's new organisational structure aims to build upon the company's strengths and achievements. It is designed to foster collaboration both within the organisation and with external partners, enabling A.F. Blakemore to deliver its forward-looking strategy. Teague will be supported by Chris Bacon, store operations director, who will continue to drive excellent brand standards in Blakemore Retail stores. In addition, Louis Drake, retail sales director (formerly commercial director, BTP), will be responsible for building sustainable sales and profitable growth through stronger commercial partnerships. Tom Blakemore, retail development director (formerly commercial director, Fresh Foods), will now be responsible for growing and developing the quality of the store portfolio across our SPAR and Philpotts brands. Lastly, Steve Gale, head of formats excellence, will be responsible for working collaboratively to develop customer focussed retail store formats across SPAR and Philpotts brands. 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, establishing robust relationships with our valued suppliers and partners.”