Company Shop Group, the UK’s leading and longest-standing redistributor and retailer of surplus products and part of the Biffa group, has appointed Chris Burns as its new Group Managing Director.

Chris will assume leadership of the business on Monday 3rd February, when he will begin work to increase Company Shop Group’s offering to the industry in supporting the UK to reduce waste, redistribute surplus and enable the circular economy through the wider Biffa group. He brings a wealth of retail experience, most recently as Board Member and Commercial Director at Jollyes, the UK’s fast-growing pet specialist retailer.

During his four and a half years at Jollyes, Chris played a pivotal role in the company’s expansion strategy, doubling its retail footprint to over 100 stores nationwide. His leadership was instrumental in revamping the customer offer, delivering market-beating performance and attracting new investment for future growth.

Prior to Jollyes, Chris held senior positions at several major UK retailers, including Trading Controller at Poundland and Head of FMCG at Wilko, as well as senior buying roles at Asda and Tesco.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Chris grew up in Omagh and attended Queen’s University Belfast where he studied Food Science. He currently lives in Yorkshire with his wife and two daughters.

Maxine Mayhew, Chief Operating Officer at Biffa, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Chris to Company Shop Group and the Biffa Group. His proven track record in retail leadership and commercial strategy aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. Biffa is committed to enabling a circular economy and delivering more sustainable solutions to help combat the UK’s waste challenge, and Company Shop Group plays a vital role in leading surplus redistribution and supporting us to deliver on our sustainability strategy. Chris’s extensive experience in driving business growth and enhancing customer propositions will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our position as the UK’s leading surplus redistributor.”

Chris added: “Company Shop Group is a brand that I’ve long admired, leading the charge in surplus solutions and continually investing in innovation to support the industry long-term. The organisation plays a vital role in the FMCG retail and manufacturing supply chain, helping manufacturers and retailers to solve their surplus challenges, while providing our members with quality products at discounted prices. I am thrilled to be taking the helm and I look forward to working with the team to further develop our offer and expand our impact for people, the planet and our stock partners.”