Co-op Wholesale has named Martin Swadling as its first customer director, a newly created role designed to enhance its delivery offering and drive business growth.
A seasoned retail and wholesale professional, Swadling brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role. The former customer director at Booker has also held senior leadership positions at Londis, Premier, Musgrave, and Grand Metropolitan Foods.
During his time at Booker, Swadling led the company’s customer strategy and previously drove record growth for Londis and Premier, establishing key forecourt partnerships and expanding their presence nationwide.
The convenience wholesale group said that in his new role, Swadling will oversee customer strategy and delivery operations across Co-op Wholesale’s logistics and warehouse network, with a focus on developing an efficient delivery model tailored to meet partners’ needs.
“Martin brings extensive industry knowledge and a proven track record in building strong customer propositions and leading complex operations,” said Co-op Wholesale managing director Katie Secretan.
“His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our supply chain, enhance service for partners, and deliver on our growth ambitions.”
Swadling added: “The transformative journey Co-op Wholesale has been on in recent times has been clear for all to see. I’m excited to join the team at such a pivotal time, helping to build on its operational strengths and develop a delivery network that’s truly fit for the future.”
The appointment comes amid a period of rapid expansion for Co-op Wholesale, as the business continues to grow its B2B partnerships across retail, forecourt, and travel sectors.
Last month, Co-op Wholesale signed a new five-year agreement with forecourt operator Ascona Group, securing grocery supply to its 62 sites across the UK.
A week later, the company expanded its partnership with Roadchef to supply 31 WHSmith stores located at motorway service areas across the UK.