Metro changes management at Makro

Metro has dismissed four of the five top managers at its British wholesale unit Makro due to “Differing views on the strategic direction of the company.” The managing director and the responsible board members for Customer Management, Finance and Operations have left the company on amicable terms, based on mutual agreement, according to the company.

It comes six months after Metro, the world’s fourth-biggest retailer, appointed a new chief executive at its consumer electronics unit Media-Saturn Holding and sold Saturn stores in France. Professionals from consultancy AlixPartners would fill the four board seats at Makro UK. “Makro currently runs 30 stores across the UK and is targeting a turnaround of its underperforming business. The new management team will ensure a fast and professional steering of this process,” notes Metro.

AlixPartners already supports Makro UK in its restructuring activities, as an advisor, and the nominated managers are already integrated in the activities and understand the challenges the company faces. The current board member Huw Edwards will take on additional responsibilities as commercial director for offer, merchandising and marketing.