Carol Welch steps down as CEO of AF Blakemore

Carol Welch (pictured) has stepped down as CEO of AF Blakemore. No reason has been given for her departure.

A statement for the wholesaler and retailer said: “We can confirm that after nearly four years as CEO of AF Blakemore, Carol Welch will step down from her role on 2 October 2026.

“We thank Carol for her leadership and contribution to the business during a significant period of transformation and wish her every success for the future.”

Before joining the business in April 2023, Welch was managing director UK & Ireland and commercial officer Europe at Odeon Cinemas Group. She also previously held positions at Costa Coffee, Associated British Foods, Cadbury-Schweppes, and PepsiCo.

Peter Blakemore, executive chairman, will lead the AF Blakemore business following Welch’s departure, working closely with the existing executive team, which remains unchanged.