Unitas Wholesale appoints new chairman

The wholesaler says Aylwin will bring a “new perspective to the business” having been in the food and drink industry for more than 35 years, after spending time at Booker Group, Blueheath, Conviviality, Matthew Clark, Musgrave Retail, and Safeway.

Earlier this year, Unitas’ board agreed to transition to a non-member chair and, following a selection process, Aylwin agreed to accept the role.

Managing director, John Kinney, said: “Mark is a great appointment for Unitas Wholesale and is a hugely positive move forward demonstrating the strong intentions of the group.

“Mark brings a wealth of experience to the role that will be incredibly useful as we drive the organisation into its next phase of development and both myself and the board look forward to welcoming Mark when he begins his tenure in April.”

Aylwin added: “I am really looking forward to joining Unitas Wholesale to support John and the board in the next phase of its journey. While there are a number of significant challenges in the out-of-home market, I am excited to be joining the group at a time when I believe we can make a real difference to our Unitas Wholesale members and their customers.”

Aylwin will take up the role in April 2021.

Simon Hannah, current chair of the group and managing director of Filshill Wholesale, will stand down after a brief handover period. However, he will remain on the board.

Hannah said: “While I have been extremely proud to be the chairman of Unitas Wholesale, I am delighted that Mark has agreed to join us as our new chair.

“Moving to a non-member chair will bring new insights and strategic direction, and together with John Kinney puts Unitas in a strong position to move forward with the next stage in the development of the group for the benefit of our members, our customers and supplier partners.”