New managing director for SPAR UK

SPAR UK has appointed Louise Hoste as its new managing director, a position she will assume in October.

She takes over from interim MDs Chris Lewis and Jackie Mackenzie, who were drafted in when Debbie Robinson stepped down from the post at the end of last year to become chief executive of Central England Co-operative.

Hoste worked for Walmart in the UK, Canada and Chile before becoming director of category and pricing at Brakes.

She was later director of the customer offer at the Co-op, relaunching the Co-op brand across the food ranges and working on the ‘Closer To You’ strategy.

Most recently she was executive commercial director at Card Factory.

Martin Agnew, SPAR UK chairman, said: “Louise brings senior level expertise working with suppliers across the industry and also has a passion for consumer-led initiatives.

“She joins at a time when the business continues to drive innovation across the convenience retailing sector.”

Tel: SPAR UK 020-8426 3700