Steven Bell has become vice-chairman of north east based convenience chain Bells Stores as commercial director Richard Collins takes over from him as managing director. Collins said: "It is a natural progression for me to focus on the day-to-day running of the business and free Steven up to look for new opportunities for other arms of the business." Steven Bell will act as a "resource investigator" looking at new business opportunities for the business overall, concentrating on the internet, Bells Direct and the shopfitting business, said Collins. David Goodwin takes over Collins' buying responsibilities in a promotion to senior buyer and Steven's father Les Bell remains chairman of Bells. Collins said: "He has no plans to retire." {{NEWS }}