SHS Group CEO change

Gillow (l) is to join SHS Group next year, replacing Richmond (r) as CEO

SHS Group CEO Arthur Richmond is to retire next year and will be replaced by former Asda commercial director Paul Gillow.

Richmond would continue to lead the fmcg business until the new year, before transitioning to a non-executive position on its board, where he would oversee “key project-based initiatives,” SHS Group said.

The supplier, which owns brands including WKD, Meridian and Bottlegreen, said Richmond’s “28 years of dedicated service” had been “instrumental in the growth and success of SHS”.

“Since becoming CEO [in 2023], Arthur has focused on streamlining trading operations and establishing the executive leadership board, while driving the group’s commitment to people, sustainable growth, and responsible business practices,” it said.

SHS Group chair Karen Salters said: “Arthur has been a driving force behind our success. We are delighted that he will continue contributing in a non-executive role, helping to steer the future direction of the business.”

Filling the SHS Group CEO hotseat is Paul Gillow, who will join in January 2025.

Gillow has spent two decades at Asda, progressing from the role of store manager in 2004 to commercial director for food, a position he has occupied since September 2023.

He was “known for his expertise in commercial strategy, transformation and people development”, and “played a key role in shaping business strategy and delivering strong results” at Asda, SHS Group said

“I am delighted to join SHS and work with such a dynamic group to drive future progress and foster a culture that prioritises people and innovation,” said Gillow.

Salters added: “Paul is a perfect cultural fit for SHS. His blend of industry expertise and focus on people aligns with our values, and I am confident that he will play a pivotal role as we embark on our next chapter of growth.”

The announcement comes after accounts filed at Companies House this week revealed SHS Group grew its sales by £20m to £664.8m in 2023.

The group attributed the topline increase to innovation, new business and brand investment.

Profits before tax, meanwhile, climbed 18.1% to £17.4m.