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Co-op has announced the appointment of Andy Wilmot MBE as group supply chain and logistics director, succeeding Derek Furnival who leaves the retailer after 30 years.
Wilmot joins the convenience retailer from A.F. Blakemore and Son, where he served as group logistics and supply chain director.
His 30-year career also includes a tenure as operations director at DHL Supply Chain. He will oversee a network that services 8,000 stores across Co-op’s retail, wholesale, and partnership operations.
The appointment is part of a broader strategy to establish a national retail buying group and modernise the firm’s commercial and logistics infrastructure.
Wilmot will work alongside Furnival until the latter’s departure in June to ensure a transition of leadership within the Group Commercial and Logistics (GCL) division.
Co-op’s logistics operation supports a diverse estate of community-based stores and independent partnerships.
The incoming director will be responsible for delivering operational transformations intended to support the group’s growth targets through 2026 and beyond.
Wilmot said: “Moving to the front line of retail logistics and supply chain is something I’m excited about. Retail supply chains and logistic networks are complex environments and the backbone of retail operations, even more so at Co-op which services 8,000 stores. I see opportunities to be best in class and I am looking forward to working with the Co-op teams.”
Matt Hood, group managing director of Co-op Food, said: “As we continue to establish the new structure and move forward with our strategy to create a significant retail buying group, the strength of our supply and logistics operation cannot be underestimated. Andy’s experience and skills will enable a real step change in this space.
“As we are excited to welcome Andy, we are equally sad to say goodbye to Derek Furnival, who has served for 30 years at our Co-op and who will be missed by everyone when he leaves with our very best wishes in June.”
