Michael Fletcher is to step down as managing director of Spar UK, with Jerome Saint-Marc appointed to succeed him from 17 August.

Fletcher will step away from his day-to-day responsibilities at the end of August, and leave the business at the beginning of November.

He joined Spar UK in November 2024 and led the Spar Central Office team through what the business described as a significant phase of change.

Saint-Marc brings 30 years’ experience across supply chain and retail, having held senior roles at Tesco, Morrisons, Wilko and, most recently, Co-op.

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In a separate leadership change, Martin Agnew has been appointed chair of the Spar Food Distributors board, succeeding Nick Bunker.

Agnew has served on the board for more than 25 years and has experience across retail and wholesale.

The board thanked Bunker for “his significant contribution during his tenure”.

The Spar Food Distributors board said it remained committed to delivering Spar UK’s strategic priorities, including strengthening the central office, supporting the four regional distribution centres and helping independent Spar retailers grow their businesses.

It said the leadership changes would not alter that commitment.