Habitat hires Phil Wrigley as executive chairman

Hilco, which acquired the loss-making retailer last year, has parachuted Wrigley in to lead a turnaround of the business.

Wrigley, who will also sit on Hilco’s new advisory board, said Habitat is a “fascinating business with huge potential. I will work with the management team to see where we can add further value”.

He added: “Habitat is a great brand with a unique history and I think it will do better if it reconnects with its customers and doesn’t worry too much about parent companies and what is happening in other markets.”

Hilco acquired Habitat from Ikea founders the Kampard family last year. Habitat was founded by Sir Terence Conran in the 1960s