JW Filshill has appointed Matthew Howie as business development manager, joining from Morrisons where he headed up the Morrisons Daily franchise operation across Scotland.
He brings nearly 25 years’ experience in the retail and wholesale sectors to the role, including across stakeholder engagement, leadership, and driving growth in independent retail.
Howie began his career in fruit and veg at the Co-op at the age of 16, working his way up to manager, store manager and business development manager at Nisa/ Co-op, before moving to the role at Morrisons Daily. He is also currently co-chair of the Scottish branch of GroceryAid, which JW Filshill supports.
Howie’s appointment forms a key component of Filshill’s 2031 growth strategy, which looks to accelerate the recruitment of new KeyStore customers and to reinforce the wholesaler’s ambition to be the first choice symbol group for “tech-savvy, entrepreneurial retailers”.
He will replace Roy Williams, who will retire at the end of March after nine years with the business.
“Matthew’s appointment is pivotal as we embark on the next phase in our evolution and we welcome the fresh ideas and industry contacts that he brings to the Filshill business,” said JW Filshill chief sales and marketing officer Craig Brown.
“We are constantly developing how we incorporate technology solutions as we seek innovative solutions to boost efficiency and sustainability across the business – Matthew is tuned into these goals and aspirations, and we are delighted to have him on board for the next chapter of our journey.”
Howie added: “Being aware of Filshill’s reputation as a business that has a strong relationship with both retailers and suppliers as well as its focus on family values, then hearing about its exciting plans for the future, joining the company is a no-brainer for me.
“My values closely align with theirs and I’m looking forward to using my experience from working in retail and wholesale over many years to contribute to the growth and development of a business that is proudly Scottish based and independent yet is not parochial in outlook and is undeniably one of the UK’s leading wholesalers.”
No comments yet