MANCHESTER, England, 2016-Feb-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Co-op Food’s Property team has stepped up its recruitment drive, making three senior appointments to support its ambitious plans for growth in 2016 and beyond.
The new Lead Regional Acquisitions Managers – James Harrison, David McQuaker and Simon Finlay – join the Co-op’s 20-strong Acquisitions team, and will play a key role in delivering the business’s vision of opening around 100 new stores in 2016.
James will be covering central England, David will lead on Scotland and the north of England and Simon is focussing on the South. Together they have around 55 years’ experience in the retail property sector and have worked for some of the UK’s leading retail businesses, including William Hill, Morrisons and Tesco.
Simon Finlay said: “The Co-op is a truly special business with a rich history and unique commitment to local communities, but what really drew me to the role was the size of the opportunity. We delivered nearly 100 convenience stores last year, far more than any other retailer, and to be part of such a big acquisitions program is very exciting. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year brings.”
Rob Bignold, Head of Acquisitions and New Store Development, said: “We are delighted that Simon, David and James have joined the team. Whilst other retailers are scaling back their expansion plans, the Co-op continues to expand to meet consumer demand. Our new store programme has really started to gain momentum now, and these three bring the skills and experience we need to realise our vision to be the number one convenience store operator in the country.”
The Co-op is actively seeking freehold or leasehold sites of up to 10,000 square foot gross and businesses with net sales areas of over 1,500 square foot. In return, landlords, developers and agents can expect competitive rent and terms and a quick response.
To find out more about the team, visit our website.
SOURCE: Co-operative Group Limited
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Russ Brady
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Email: russ.brady@co-operative.coop