Former Booker CEO Charles Wilson has acquired approximately 10% of the share capital of Menzies Distribution and joined the board as a non-executive director.
Wilson (pictured) retired in February as CEO of Booker after 15 years at the helm, including after the company’s acquisition by Tesco in 2018. He decided to step back from his full-time role at Booker after being treated for throat cancer.
His investment in Menzies accelerates the momentum seen in the company’s journey in recent months. In January 2021, former Asda CEO Andy Clarke was appointed as non-executive chairman. In December 2020, Menzies acquired Bibby Distribution, unlocking geographic potential for Menzies by adding 38 new operating sites and a large, young fleet.
Commenting on Wilson’s appointment, Greg Michael, CEO of Menzies, said: “Charles Wilson joining Menzies is a fantastic endorsement of our strategy to be the partner of choice to the publishing and retail markets. The team is very excited to be working with Charles to accelerate customer growth opportunities. We are looking forward to the insight that Charles will bring to support our ambitions through our unique set of services and capabilities.”
Wilson added: “I am delighted to be joining Menzies Distribution as an investor and non-executive director. The company has a strong management team, great colleagues and serves important customers. I look forward to supporting Andy Clarke, our chairman, Greg Michael, our CEO, and the rest of the Menzies team in helping our customers prosper.”
