Kingfisher chief executive to join Ahold Delhaize

(Sharecast News) - The chief executive of B&Q owner Kingfisher is stepping down after nearly seven years in the role, the retailer confirmed on Wednesday.

Thierry Garnier is leaving the British chain to become president and chief executive of Ahold Delhaize, the Dutch-Belgian supermarket group. He is expected to take up the role after serving his 12-month notice period, in April 2027.

Kingfisher, which also owns Screwfix, Castorama and Brico Depot, said it had a "well-prepared" succession plan in place, and that the search for his successor was already underway.

Chair Claudia Arney thanked Garnier for his "outstanding leadership and contribution" during his tenure. She continued: "Under his leadership, Kingfisher has become a leading home improvement group underpinned by stronger banners across the UK and Europe. We wish him the very best for the future."

Garnier said: "I remain focused on continuing to execute on our strategic plans with all my energies, so as to leave Kingfisher in the best possible shape for the future. I look forward to ensuring a successful transition to my successor in due course."

Garnier, 60, who is a both a French and British national, became Kingfisher chief executive in September 2019 after two decades at French grocer Carrefour. He is also a non-executive director at Tesco.

He will succeed Ahold Delhaize president and chief executive Franz Muller, who is retiring after eight years. The retailer, based in Zaandam in the Netherlands, has around 7,700 stores across countries in Europe as well as the US and Indonesia.

Kingfisher