Australian company Metcash, which operates retail stores under the IGA banner, has appointed Steven Cain as CEO supermarkets and Mark Hewlett as executive general manager, new channels.
Cain has previously work as group managing director at Coles, and spent six years with UK retailer Asda.
“I am delighted to be joining Metcash at an important time in the implementation of the Diamond Transformation Program,” Cain said in a company statement, referring to Metcash’s long term plan to refurbish stores and improve its supply chain as well as push its Black and Gold brand. “I look forward to working with the supermarkets team, suppliers and independent retailers to provide a more compelling customer offer in what is an increasingly competitive environment.”
Hewlett joins Metcash with former experience running the convenience business development at Woolworths, with 12 years prior experience in the UK with German-based discounters Lidl and Aldi.
“I am really looking forward to joining Metcash and supporting successful independents. The business has great distribution capability on which to build new models,” Hewlett said.
Metcash CEO Ian Morris said the appointments would strengthen Metcash's retail knowledge and capabilities, adding that both Hewlett and Cain were both strong additions to its executive team.
