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Symbol group operator Spar UK has appointed retail veteran Jerome Saint-Marc as its new Managing Director, effective 17 August 2026. Saint-Marc succeeds Michael Fletcher, who is stepping down after leading the business's central office team through a period of structural change since November 2024.
The executive transition comes as Spar UK continues to strengthen its central operations and support its national network of regional distribution centres and independent convenience retailers.
Retail Veteran Takes the Helm at Spar UK
Saint-Marc brings three decades of retail, commercial, and supply chain experience to the Managing Director role. He most recently served as Managing Director of B2B and Growth at the Co-op. His executive background also includes serving as Chief Executive Officer of Wilko, alongside senior operational and commercial positions at Morrisons and Tesco.
Fletcher will relinquish his day-to-day operational responsibilities this month before formally leaving the business at the end of November 2026. During his tenure, Fletcher oversaw central operations through a period described by the organisation as significant structural change.
Regional Wholesale
Alongside the Managing Director appointment, Spar UK has updated the leadership of its Spar Food Distributors board. Martin Agnew has been appointed Chair of the board, replacing outgoing Chair Nick Bunker. Agnew has served on the Spar Food Distributors board for more than 25 years, bringing extensive wholesale and retail expertise to the position.
The Spar Food Distributors board confirmed that the leadership updates will not alter the group's strategic focus. The enterprise remains committed to executing its core commercial priorities, which include supporting its four regional distribution partners and driving business growth across its independent retail store network.
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