BRC appoints Tony DeNunzio as new chairman

Tony DeNunzio CBE has been appointed as chairman elect of the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

He will succeed Richard Pennycook whose tenure comes to an end on 20 May 2020. DeNunzio has over 25 years’ experience in the retail industry both in the UK and internationally. His experience covers the food, fashion, department store, DIY and speciality retail sectors.

He was president and chief executive officer of Asda, a non-executive director of Alliance Boots and chairman of Pets at Home Group plc, and is currently deputy chairman and senior independent adviser of Dixons Carphone.

DeNunzio will work with CEO, Helen Dickinson as the BRC continues to support the industry through the coronavirus crisis.

DeNunzio said: “Coronavirus has been a massive shock to the industry. Its effects are still playing out and creating a huge burden on retail businesses and a threat to the many jobs they provide.

“There has never been a more important time for a collective voice for the industry, to work with the government and other stakeholders to support the industry through the crisis and see it play its part in the recovery of the wider economy.”

He added: “The BRC has played a vital role in recent weeks representing the interests of all retailers on a wide range of critical topics.

“For example, it has helped secure moves from government to increase the efficiency of supply chains for food and pharmaceuticals, and to deliver support for the wider industry. I look forward to working with them on the next stages of this endeavour.”

Dickinson said: “Tony joins the BRC at a crucial time for retail and I look forward to working with him as we continue to deal with the effects of the crisis and the challenges we will face as public health restrictions start to be lifted and retailers get back to delivering for their customers again.

“I would like to thank Richard Pennycook for his excellent support over the last two years, and particularly through the coronavirus crisis, and pay tribute to his leadership.”

She added: “During this time, we have launched BRC Learning, established ourselves as a leading voice on Brexit and trade policy, and invested in improving our offer, putting member value at the heart of everything we do and helping us welcome over 30 new retail businesses into membership.”