Co-op has appointed Andy Wilmot MBE as its new group supply chain and logistics director, Co-op food and GCL group commercial and logistics).
Wilmot will join the convenience retailer in April, working closely with the current role holder Derek Furnival, who leaves Co-op in June after 30 years.
Wilmot joins Co-op from food and beverage services A.F. Blakemore & Son, where he has worked as its group logistics and supply chain director since May 2022.
Prior to this, he worked for DHL Supply Chain’s operations director on a variety of different contracts.
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Wilmot said: “Moving to the front line of retail logistics and supply chain is something I’m really excited and passionate about and I can’t wait to start, as I take my experience and knowledge from previous roles to Co-op.
“Retail supply chains and logistic networks are complex environments and the backbone of retail operations, even more so at Co-op which services 8000 stores across its retail, wholesale and partnership set up.
“I see huge opportunities to be best in class and I am looking forward to working with the Co-op teams to make this happen.”
Co-op group managing director Matt Hood 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 which, along with the focus on strengthening the commercial abilities of our buying team, means I’m confidently excited about what we can achieve in 2026 and beyond”
He continued: “As we are excited to welcome Andy, we are equally sad to say goodbye to Derek Furnival, who has served for 30 amazing years at our Co-op and who will be missed by everyone when he leaves with our very best wishes in June.”
The appointment comes after Co-op quick commerce managing director Chris Conway recently departed from the retailer after 8 years.
Conway joined the convenience giant in March 2018 as its director of ecommerce.
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