Booker’s Charles Wilson to retire in February

After 15 years of leading the Booker business, CEO Charles Wilson is to retire in February 2021.

Wilson was diagnosed with throat cancer a couple of years ago, and although he remains in remission, he has decided to step back from work.

“Charles leaves an incredible legacy of building the UK’s leading wholesale business, championing customer satisfaction and driving growth. He has been a wonderful colleague and team player to us all, and we are very grateful for all he has brought to Tesco and the team,” said a company statement.

Tesco Group chief executive Dave Lewis commented: “Charles’s reputation in the UK food business is unparalleled and for very good reason. The transformation of Booker over the last 15 years is one of the most remarkable business case studies in recent history. Since the merger with Tesco he has been a superb member of the executive team and a brilliant colleague.

“Whilst we are very sad to see him retire, we completely understand and wish Charles and his family all the very best for the future. I know that he will stay a massive supporter of the Tesco/Booker business and he will always remain a friend to many colleagues.”

Wilson said: “I joined the Booker team 15 years ago. At that time Booker was challenged. Together we turned around the company, improved customer satisfaction and grew to be the leading wholesaler. In 2018 we merged with Tesco. The merger is working well. Customer satisfaction has improved, our sales are up £1.5 billion and we are proud to be part of Tesco. It has been a privilege serving our retail and catering customers and a pleasure working with a great team at Tesco/Booker.”

He added: “It is time to take things a little easier. It has been a huge privilege to be part of Booker and Tesco, and I look forward to seeing the group flourish in the years ahead. I will not be selling any Tesco shares in the next few years and will remain a committed supporter of the company.”

Wilson will be replaced by Andrew Yaxley who is currently chief product officer of Tesco. Yaxley, in turn, will be succeeded by Ashwin Prasad, who is promoted from his current role as commercial director for packaged food.

Booker Wholesale (01933) 371000

Published Date: September 7, 2020
Category: Wholesale Industry News