Country Range Group appoints Ton Christiaanse as chairman

Country Range Group (CRG) has appointed former Brakes CEO Ton Christiaanse as non-executive chairman.

Christiaanse (pictured) has more than 30 years’ experience in FMCG, including CEO at Aviko, chairman of AK Stoddart, and adviser to Unilever and Sara Lee. He is also a member of the Institute for Turnaround.

In his new role at CRG, Christiaanse will work closely with managing director Coral Rose and the board to “navigate the many hurdles” facing the foodservice industry over the next few years, as well as supporting the group’s strategic direction.

He commented: “I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation of such high reputation and stature as that of the Country Range Group. It has been a challenging time for the foodservice industry, but CRG are in a strong position, and I am positive we can build on the success already achieved by the group.”

Rose said: “This is a great appointment for CRG. Ton’s experience and knowledge will be hugely beneficial to the group as we look to develop our future strategy to meet changing market and member needs. His reputation is second to none and I look forward to working alongside him to drive further success for the Country Range Group as we approach our 30th anniversary year in 2022.”

Country Range Group is made up of 12 independent wholesalers: Birchall Foodservice, Blakemore Foodservice, Caterite Foodservice, Creed Foodservice, Dunns Food and Drinks, EFG Foodservice, Harvest Fine Foods, Henderson Foodservice, Savona Foodservice, Thomas Ridley Foodservice, Trevors Foodservice and Turner Price.

Tel: Country Range Group (0845) 209 3777

Published Date: July 7, 2021