ACS

Neil Turton, Chief Executive of the independent retail and wholesale group Nisa-Today’s, has been unanimously elected by the ACS board to become Chairman of the organisation.

Mr Turton has been a director of ACS since 2004 and has chaired ACS’ Audit Committee since 2007. He replaces Jerry Marwood, Managing Director of the symbol group SPAR UK, who has completed a highly successful two year spell as ACS Chairman.

Neil Turton said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been elected to this position. Jerry has led the organisation with great skill and passion for the past two years, and I am looking forward to the challenge of continuing this excellent work. As the voice of the convenience store and local shops sector, ACS plays an invaluable role for its members.

“We have a clear strategy of focusing on our political agenda, offering unique networking opportunities for retailers and suppliers, and engaging all members of our industry in our work. I am excited to have the opportunity to drive this strategy forward.”

Jerry Marwood said: “I have greatly enjoyed playing a role in ACS’ success in recent years. It has been a great pleasure to work with a committed and supportive board of directors and with the professional executive team at ACS. I know that Neil will continue to take the organisation forward and I look forward to supporting him.”

Mr Marwood will remain a director of ACS. Jonathan James, an independent retailer from Cambridgeshire, and Tim Hurrell, Managing Director for Food Retail at the Co-operative Group, remain in their positions as Vice Chairman and deputy Vice Chairman respectively. Nigel Mills, Managing Director of the Mills Group, takes over as chair of the Audit Committee.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “Support from industry leaders is crucial to our success, and I am delighted that key figures like Neil, Jonathan, Tim and Nigel are taking pivotal roles in the Association. I am very much looking forward to working closely with Neil, and I know that we share a vision for ACS and the sector.

“Jerry has played a crucial role in our growth as an organisation. His clear thinking, inclusive style of chairing and passion for our industry have been key factors in taking ACS to the next level. Jerry has made a significant and lasting contribution to ACS and to the industry as a whole.”