Boots has named former Asda strategy head Preyash Thakrar as its new strategy and transformation director, as the cosmetics retailer “embarks on a significant period of change”.

The executive previously served as chief strategy and customer officer at Asda, leading the grocer’s strategy and partnerships team. He stepped down from the supermarket shortly after its takeover by the Issa brothers in 2021.

In his most recent role, Thakrar worked as a partner and headed consumer and retail at KPMG UK.

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Commenting on the appointment, Thakrar said : “I am absolutely delighted to confirm I will be returning to industry and joining Boots UK as strategy and transformation director. I’m looking forward to working alongside Sebastian James, CEO, and the rest of the team.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to lead our strategy, transformation, property and business tech transformation teams as we embark on a significant period of change for the Boots business and the industry as a whole. Fun times ahead!”

In January, Boots saw a strong retail sales performance of 9.8% year-on-year, on top of the 8.7% growth in the prior year, during its first quarter results.

Footfall in stores grew 7% year-on-year, while Boots.com sales were up 17.5% compared to last year, contributing 19.2% of sales for the quarter.

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