Beds retailer revamps leadership team after rescue operation

After securing a restructuring deal that injected £25m of new investment to grow the business, Accrington-based Bensons for Beds has unveiled its new leadership team that will take the business forward.

Chris Howell, who has been working with the business in an advisory capacity since the Autumn of 2019, will become chairman of Bensons.

Chris previously held chairman roles at Maxeda DIY Group in Benelux and Oceanico Group and has led and supported numerous private and publicly-listed companies in an executive, non-executive and advisory capacity including managing director at KPMG.

Benson for Beds chief executive Mark Jackson

Joe joined the team earlier this year from bed and mattress manufacturer Sleepeezee where he was CEO.

He is a chartered accountant and was previously on the board at Adova Group, the French-based supplier of bedroom furniture and sofas.

Also in Mark’s team as chief financial officer will be John Sidebotham.

John has been working with the business as a restructuring adviser for the past six months and has now formally joined the leadership team.

John’s background includes KPMG Restructuring and Retail turnaround as well as holding multiple senior management roles at ABF.

Completing Mark’s team is Alan Williams who will continue to lead Bensons’ stores as managing director of retail.

Alan has been with the business for more than 20 years. He has a wealth of experience, including a number of roles at Sleepmasters, where he was also managing director.

Mark Jackson said: “While he’s no stranger to us, having guided us through the last eight months as an adviser, it’s good to formally welcome Chris as chairman to new Bensons. His experience and contribution will be invaluable as we invest to grow.

“He and my whole leadership team are looking forward to getting Bensons back on its feet.

“This is a good business with a bright future, and we’ll emerge from our restructuring, refocused, resilient and ready to press ahead with our transformation plans.”

Earlier this month a pre-pack deal by Alteri Investors with administrators from PwC saved 1,899 jobs.

Alteri is a specialist backer of troubled retailers and owned Bensons and the struggling furniture chain Harveys.

Joint administrator, Zelf Hussain, said: “The Harveys furniture related retail and manufacturing businesses will continue to trade in administration whilst all options are explored – 1,330 employees have been retained to support this trading period.”

Both Bensons and Harveys were acquired by Alteri last year.