trevor masters pepco

Source: Tesco

Masters will be based at parent Pepco Group’s offices in Poland

Pepco, Poundland’s sister clothing retailer in Europe, has appointed Tesco veteran Trevor Masters as its new managing director.

Masters spent more than 30 years at Tesco, in roles including CEO for Central Europe and Turkey and, most recently, CEO of international operations until 2017.

He is to succeed current Pepco MD Rob Taylor, who joined in 2004 and informed the board of his desire to step down from full-time employment earlier this year, the company said.

Masters is joining on 1 November and will be based at parent Pepco Group’s offices in Poland.

The group has some 2,700 Pepco, Poundland and Dealz stores in 14 countries, employing more than 33,000 staff. It also includes budget fashion brand Pep&Co, with outlets in Poundlands across the UK.

It changed its name from Pepkor Europe last month, as it announced an ambition to become “Europe’s largest discount variety retailer” by opening another 1,300 stores.

“I am delighted that Trevor is joining the senior management team to lead Pepco as it delivers the exciting growth planned for the brand,” said Pepco Group CEO Andy Bond.

“I am confident that his deep retail experience gained in numerous international markets will only serve to further strengthen Pepco’s market-leading position in central Europe.

“On behalf of the board I would like to thank Rob for his service over the past 15 years. His direction, drive and determination have been pivotal in the development of Pepco from 14 stores in Poland in 2004 to the 1,800-store, 11-country operation that we are today.”

Masters said: “Pepco is by any measure already a large, fast-growing and financially strong business built upon its constant focus on delivering exceptional value for its customers every day.

“I look forward to working alongside the team across Europe and am excited by the future growth potential for the brand, as clearly illustrated by the business’ ambition to open Pepco’s 2,000th store during my first year in the role.”