Co-operative Retail’s chief operating officer to stand down

Toal has held his current role for over two years, having joined the firm in 2000.

He held the roles of both commercial director and director of retail operations over the past 14 years.

Steve Murrells, Co-operative Retail ceo, said: “Toal has made a significant contribution at all levels, from retail operations director through to his current role. He was also acting ceo in the period before my appointment and I would like to thank him for the personal support he has given me over the past two years and the great commitment to the business, particularly in the way he has developed our Co-operative talent for the future.”​

Toal will remain at the business over the next few months, while a suitable replacement is found.

Graham Mairs ​

Meanwhile, Co-operative Food has appointed Graham Mairs as its new development and innovation chef as part of its commitment to improving its own-label range.

Mairs joins from Morrisons where he was head chef and innovation manager of the M Kitchen range. Before this, he held roles at Kerry Foods and Uniq Group.

Kate Jones, head of food product at The Co-operative Food, said: “Mairs’ love for food complements our own passion for food, and his input will be invaluable in helping us to create some incredible new Co-operative brand products. Our vision is to be the best local food retailer in the UK, and the continued improvement and development of our own-brand range is extremely important.”​