Former Debenhams chief to lead Original Factory Shop chain
FORMER Asda and Debenhams executive Angela Spindler has been appointed as the new head of value retail chain Original Factory Shop.
She replaces George Foster at the 100 store company, which is bucking the gloomy retail market by continuing to expand.
Mr Foster, who led last year’s £68.5m secondary buyout with the backing of Duke Street Capital, is retiring from full time involvement, but remaining on the board of OFS.
The company opened its first store in Keighley in 1969 and has stores in Garforth, Hoyland, Ilkley, Knottingley, Lightwater Valley, Ripon, Stocksbridge and York. Its head office moved over the Pennines to Burnley two years ago.
Angela Spindler will take over on January 5. In her previous role she was managing director at Debenhams. Before this she spent 10 years at Asda where she held a number of key board level trading roles and was the Executive Managing Director of the successful George brand.
She said today: “I am delighted to be joining The Original Factory Shop and look forward to playing a part in the future growth of the business.
“Consumers are increasingly looking for good quality products at great value prices and The Original Factory Shop is in a fantastic position to take advantage of the current market opportunity.
“Over the past year, 18 new stores have been opened and with Duke Street’s backing we plan to continue this proven growth programme.”
George Foster said: “I have enjoyed my time as the CEO of the Original Factory Shop and am looking forward to working with Angela and continuing to play a role in the future success of the business. I am retiring with the comfort that the company is in great hands.”
