Toy specialist The Entertainer has appointed Tesco’s John Driscoll to be its new commercial director.
Driscoll will join the retailer’s executive team and be responsible for steering its buying and merchandising functions as it continues to expand both internationally and domestically.
The position was previously occupied by Stuart Grant – son of the retailer’s founder and managing director Gary Grant, who is moving into a new international business development role.
Driscoll spent nine years at Tesco in a number of senior commercial roles, most recently overseeing its toy category. Prior to this, he held roles at Marks and Spencer and Accenture.
Gary Grant said: “We’re delighted that John has joined the team at this time and are fortunate that someone of his calibre and expertise was available.
“John’s invaluable expertise and knowledge of the toy and licensing industries will be crucial in driving the growth of The Entertainer and will offer great support for our ambitious expansion plans.”
The privately-owned company, with 137 stores, generated a 6% sales jump in its first-half and flat like-for-likes.
It said profits for the financial period were 5% ahead of plan, and gross margin had increased despite cost pressures.
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