The Association of Convenience Stores has unveiled some changes to its board.
Independent retailer Ramesh Shingadia becomes Chair, from his previous position of Vice Chair, which he has held since February 2021. Ramesh replaces Louise Hoste, who has served in the position since September 2021.
Ramesh owns and operates with his family two stores in Horsham, Sussex, and he has been involved in the retail sector for 40 years.
The full ACS board leadership appointments are:
- Main Board Chair: Ramesh Shingadia, Independent Retailer.
- Main Board Vice Chair: Phil Ponsonby, Group Chief Executive Officer, The Midcounties Co-operative.
- Main Board Vice Chair: Colm Johnson, Managing Director, Booker Retail.
- Audit Committee Chair: Maria Eaton, Finance Director, Motor Fuel Group.
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “I am delighted to be working closely with Ramesh, Phil, Colm and Maria in their leadership positions on the board. Their combined experience and knowledge of the convenience sector is invaluable and will further strengthen ACS’ position as the influential, effective and truly representative voice for all convenience stores.
“Louise has been a fantastic chair throughout the last two years, as well as being an incredible advocate for ACS and the work that we do to represent our members. Louise’s leadership of the board has helped us to bolster our support for both retailers and suppliers.”
Ramesh added: “As an independent retailer and previous vice chair on the ACS board, I am deeply honoured, humbled, and privileged to be elected to the role of the Chair. The convenience market is a complex and dynamic sector, with significant changes, challenges, and opportunities at every corner. Against this background, the ACS has demonstrated great foresight, innovation, and leadership in providing guidance and support to both the retailer and supplier.
“The ACS Board and management team looks to build on this foundation, to continue lobbying the government on agendas impacting the convenience sector but more importantly, supporting on a day-to-day basis the retailers and suppliers who are an integral part of our sector.”
