Costcutter is continuing to boost its team as it prepares to make its crucial decision on whether to extend its distribution contract with Nisa.

The symbol group, which last week appointed former Clinton Cards and Starbucks boss Darcy Willson-Rymer as its new CEO, has made a trio of appointments in its marketing team.

It has appointed Rebecca Hopper as retail marketing manager for its new Rhythm & Booze fascia, Emily Lawley as digital executive and Jennifer Steel as marketing executive.

The appointments throw some light on Costcutter’s ambitious plans for the future. Hopper, who was previously at Today’s Group, will be responsible for developing a new look for the Rhythm & Booze brand, which Costcutter acquired in March this year when owner R&M Swaine fell into administration. Costcutter plans to turn the fascia into a franchise package, which is expected to be rolled out later this year.

Lawley will create new brand-specific websites for Costcutter’s growing portfolio - Kwiksave, Costcutter, myCostcutter and Rhythm & Booze. She will also develop Costcutter’s first app, available for apple and Android later this year.

“These key appointments signal our intent to continue growing the business for the good of all of our retailers,” said marketing director Ian Bishop. “Rhythm & Booze is a very important part of our business and we are investing heavily in our digital channels.”

The appointments come as speculation continues over whether Costcutter will announce an extension to its distribution agreement with Nisa at its annual exhibition on Monday.

Although Costcutter said earlier this summer that it expected to announce the decision then, industry sources believe that Willson-Rymer’s appointment will force a delay.

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