// British Retail Consortium appoints Tony DeNunzio as new chairman
// He succeeds Richard Pennycook, whose tenure comes to an end on May 20
The BRC has announced the appointment of Tony DeNunzio as its new chairman.
He will succeed Richard Pennycook whose tenure comes to an end on May 20.
DeNunzio has over 25 years of experience in the retail industry both in the UK and internationally, covering the food, fashion, department store, DIY and speciality retail sectors.
He is a former president and chief executive of Asda, non-executive director of Alliance Boots and chairman of Pets at Home, and is currently deputy chairman and senior independent director of Dixons Carphone plc and a senior advisor to Kohlberg, Kravis, Roberts & Co.
At the BRC, DeNunzio will work with chief executive Helen Dickinson as the trade organisation continues to support the industry through the coronavirus crisis.
“Coronavirus has been a massive shock to the industry. Its effects are still playing out and creating a huge burden on retail businesses and a threat to the many jobs they provide,” DeNunzio said.
“There has never been a more important time for a collective voice for the industry, to work with the government and other stakeholders to support the industry through the crisis and see it play its part in the recovery of the wider economy.
“The BRC has played a vital role in recent weeks representing the interests of all retailers on a wide range of critical topics.
“For example, it has helped secure moves from government to increase the efficiency of supply chains for food and pharmaceuticals, and to deliver support for the wider industry.
“I look forward to working with them on the next stages of this endeavour.”
Dickinson said: “Tony joins the BRC at a crucial time for retail and I look forward to working with him as we continue to deal with the effects of the crisis and the challenges we will face as public health restrictions start to be lifted and retailers get back to delivering for their customers again.
“I would like to thank Richard Pennycook for his excellent support over the last two years, and particularly through the coronavirus crisis, and pay tribute to his leadership.
“During this time, we have launched BRC Learning, established ourselves as a leading voice on Brexit and trade policy, and invested in improving our offer, putting member value at the heart of everything we do and helping us welcome over 30 new retail businesses into membership.”
Pennycook said: “It has been a privilege to have served as chairman and I wish Tony every success in this important role.
“I know he will provide great counsel to Helen and her team as they embark on a new phase in the evolution of the business and seek to further strengthen the reputation of the industry with government and deliver much-needed policy change.”
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