Former Asda CEO Andy Clarke joins Menzies Distribution as Chairman

Following its recent acquisition of Bibby Distribution, Menzies Distribution (Menzies) is pleased to announce that Andy Clarke has joined the company as Non-Executive Chairman.

Andy Clarke is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Asda, the major supermarket retailing group and has more than 25 years’ experience of driving performance improvement in multi-channel international businesses.

Under Andy’s leadership (2010 to 2016) Asda reached the Number Two position in the UK grocery market and its George clothing operation became the highest volume clothing brand in the UK. In his earlier career, Andy held roles at Wm Morrison Supermarkets, Matalan and Iceland, as well as working with strategy consultants McKinsey & Partners.

Since stepping down from Asda, Andy has developed a portfolio career. He is currently Chairman of operational performance specialist Newton Europe, Chairman of Leeds-Bradford Airport, Chairman of independent pharmaceutical company Immodulon Therapeutics, Chairman of retail technology business Spoon Guru and advisor to food supplier Albert Bartlett.

An advocate for plastics reform, Andy has been active in driving practical change and public debate through the media. He is an advisor to A Plastic Planet and his retail focused projects have included the campaign for ‘A Plastics Free Aisle’.

Commenting on Andy’s appointment, Greg Michael, CEO of Menzies, said:

“Andy is an influential figure in British business and I am delighted to welcome him to the Menzies board. His breadth of experience as a Chairman, as well as a superb track record in several sectors relevant to Menzies, will be invaluable as we enter the next phase of our ambitious plan for growth.”

Andy Clarke, the new Chairman of Menzies Distribution, said:

“I’m excited to be joining Menzies at such an exciting stage of its journey. I look forward to working closely with Greg and the senior team as Menzies capitalises on the many compelling opportunities ahead to cement its position as a major force in UK logistics.”

Aidan Robson, Partner of Endless LLP, majority shareholder of Menzies, added:

“We are delighted to welcome Andy Clarke to the Menzies board.  At a time when Covid-19 has redefined the importance of logistics in the UK, Andy Clarke’s strong experience across retail and multi-channel businesses will help support Menzies to deliver its growth aspirations through both organic expansion and acquisition.”