B&M chief executive Simon Arora to retire

GENERAL MERCHANDISE

22 April, 2022 | by The Retail Bulletin

B&M has announced that its chief executive Simon Arora is to retire.

Arora has led the business since he acquired it together with his brother Bobby in December 2004. Since then, it has grown to a group of  over 1,100 stores across the UK and France.

In a statement, B&M said Arora will be stepping down in 12 months time, although in the interim he will remain fully committed to the business and will assist in a smooth transition to his successor.

A succession process, led by B&M chairman Peter Bamford, will consider both internal and external candidates.

Bamford said: “On behalf of the board and all stakeholders of the group, I would like to thank Simon for his leadership over the past seventeen years.

“The remarkable growth of the business from its humble beginnings to where it is today reflects his exceptional passion, determination and ability. 

“Moreover, he has established a firm foundation from which the group will continue to deliver its successful growth strategy and great value for its customers. We are all very grateful for his tireless efforts and he will leave us next year with our best wishes for the future.”

Meanwhile Bobby Arora, B&M group trading director, has said he intends to remain with the business in his current role.