Ronnie Bell’s departure from Premier Foods could have a “silver lining”, analysts claim.

Former Kraft Foods Europe president Bell stepped down as chairman last week after just over a year-and-a-half in the role to “focus on other governance commitments”.

Shares slipped from 110.5p on opening on Friday, to 101.25p as The Grocer went to press.

But analysts remained optimistic. “There may be long-term benefit if an appropriately supportive and engaged replacement can be found,” reasoned Investec analyst Martin Deboo.

Bell, also chairman of milk Link, which is set to merge with Arla Foods, has been replaced in the interim by David Beever.

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