Neil Turton announces decision to leave Sugro

Sugro’s managing director Neil Turton has announced his decision to leave the group on 19 April.

Neil Turton: ‘It’s been an eventful and mostly enjoyable three-and-a-half years but it’s time to move on.’

“This is a planned succession process as the Covid-19 pandemic nears an end,” said a statement from the organisation.

Sugro will be recruiting to replace Turton, who is working with the board to ensure a smooth transition.

Turton had previously resigned from Sugro at the start of 2020 but agreed with the board to remain in the post during the Covid-19 crisis and in May 2021 confirmed that he intended to stay on.

Commenting on his decision to leave, he said: “It has been an eventful and mostly enjoyable three-and-a-half years but it’s time to move on, and new adventures await.”

Turton told Cash & Carry Management: “I’m not going to another job. I intend to spend a bit more time on my non-exec roles but enjoy life a bit.

“I was 55 last December. I’ve worked with no longer than a two-week break for 37 years. If I’m approached for new things I’m open-minded – it’s not retirement – but I’ll enjoy getting fit for and organising the Bosnia bike ride [in aid of the charity MAG] first.”

Meanwhile, Sugro has reported 16% growth for 2021 based on supplier turnover through the group. This represents a 30% rise on 2019 – the last full pre-pandemic year.

For 2021, Sugro’s major category of confectionery was up 37%, soft drinks +26% and snacks +10%.

Sugro has 82 members with a combined wholesale turnover of more than £1.5 billion.