Anson in, Evans out in Kitbag shake-up

KITBAG, the football kit retailer owned by listed home shopping group Findel, has appointed Andy Anson as its new managing director, a move which has seen long-time boss Ray Evans leave the business.

Anson, who led England’s ill-fated 2018 World Cup bid, has a long track record in sports business, having worked for the tennis’ governing body the WTA and Manchester United, where he was commercial director.

Evans, gave no hint of his departure last week at the re-opening of Manchester City’s new superstore – which is operated by Kitbag.

In a statement the board said it wished to thank Evans for his contribution in growing the Middleton-based business.

Roger Siddle, chief executive of Hyde-based Findel plc, said:”We are delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Anson who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge which will be invaluable to Kitbag.

“Andy will be responsible for leading the next stage of development of Kitbag as we look to build on the considerable success achieved to date. We are confident that his expertise and leadership will help the group to realise the full potential of Kitbag.”

In the year to April 1 Kitbag made operating profits of £1.8m on sales of £58m.

Andy Anson commented: “‘I am excited to be joining Kitbag which is great business with a strong reputation and brand in exciting and rapidly evolving markets.

“I look forward to bringing my experience from the worlds of sport and business and working with the great team at Kitbag and Findel.”

Anson, who was born in Oldham, has also worked for Channel4 and for the Disney Corporation in the US.