Former Tesco exec appointed as BRC chairman

Andy Higginson has been appointed to succeed Tony De Nunzio, whose tenure comes to an end in September 2023, as BRC Chairman.

Higginson has over 30 years’ senior executive and non-executive experience in the retail industry in the UK and internationally, covering major brands across retail sectors. He was CFO at the Burton Group plc and Tesco plc, Chairman of Poundland, N Brown plc and Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc, and is currently Chair of JD Sports Fashion plc.

He will work with BRC CEO, Helen Dickinson, to guide the next phase of the organisation’s development and to support the industry as it faces into near-term policy and market challenges and invests in longer-term change.

Reacting to the announcement, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive at the British Retail Consortium, said, “Andy joins the BRC as we deal with multiple public policy headwinds, with a General Election in the UK not far off. We have much more to do on this and big issues like climate change, creating a more inclusive industry, and reaping the benefits of digital transformation, and I look forward to working with Andy to drive forward our work in these areas.”

Higginson said: “In the past three years, we have seen the best of retail as it navigated the unprecedented challenges of Covid-19, and the inflationary environment we see today. With innovation, agility and resilience, retailers have continued to deliver for customers. Yet the pressure is still on as retailers need to invest in transforming their businesses for the future.

“More than ever, a strong collective voice is needed to advocate for the industry and to help retail businesses navigate change. I have seen the benefit of BRC membership from the company side of the fence, and I look forward to working with Helen and her team to make sure the interests of the wider industry continue to be looked after.”