Co-op has appointed former Lidl CEO Ronny Gottschlich to join the board as an independent non-executive director, effective from today (29 January).

Gottschlich previously held senior executive roles for the Schwarz Group in multiple European markets.

Additionally, he founded Heunadel Retail Advisory, which offers consultancy services to retailers on strategy and operations.

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“I’m excited to be joining the Co-op, a business with genuine purpose, and for the opportunity to work with the Board and Leadership team to deliver the next stage in the strategy for growth,” he said.

The move aims to strengthen the convenience retailer’s leadership team as it executes its next business strategy for growth.

Debbie White, chair of Co-op, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ronny to our board and to our Co-op. Ronny brings a wealth of experience and joins us at an important time as we look to grow our Co-op for the future, for the benefit of our seven million members across the UK.”