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Buying group Confex has announced a restructure to ensure it provides the best possible support for its members while it continues with its ambitious future growth strategy.

Confex already represents more than 12% of the UK wholesale sector. Since the pandemic, the group has doubled in size and turnover. This, alongside the Cotswold-based group’s ambitious plans, has resulted in CEO Tom Gittins (above right) and COO Jess Douglas (above left) creating a new structure for the business, introducing two new dedicated divisions – retail and foodservice – in order to meet the evolving needs of members and suppliers.

Tom Gittins said: “Confex has always celebrated its diverse range of wholesale members, servicing all product categories with a focus on local independent customers. These changes will provide us with a clear and dedicated focus for both our retail and foodservice members which, in turn, supports our growth plans.

One of the key drivers for this restructure has been the success of the dedicated retail and foodservice committees introduced in 2022. Recognising and celebrating the differences across the group’s membership, these committees comprise key members who meet monthly to discuss Confex’s strategic pillars across trading, technology, marketing, own brand, distribution, execution and operations.

As a result of the new restructure, Kirsty Winkel (above centre) has been appointed to the newly created position of retail controller. She will oversee the retail division of the group.