Waitrose names first foodservice boss

Waitrose has appointed Simon Burdess as its first director of foodservice, in charge of developing the supermarket’s foodservice offer.

Simon, who will join the business in September, is currently vice president of restaurants and bars at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG).

He also has 20 years’ experience in the retail industry, having previously been commercial director for Fortnum and Mason and various commercial roles at Marks & Spencer – including category manager for in store hospitality.

Commenting on the appointment, Ben Stimson, retail director at Waitrose, said: “We want our shops to be places where customers will feel excited by and inspired by food and evolving our foodservice offer is vital in achieving this. ​

“Simon brings a wealth of experience, which will be invaluable in ensuring our hospitality makes our shops dynamic and vibrant places to visit.”​