Marks & Spencer has confirmed that Kate Bostock, currently executive director of general merchandise, will be leaving the company in October “by mutual consent” to pursue other interests. Bostock is rumoured to be tipped for the role of chief executive at Asos. Replacing
Bostock at M&S is John Dixon, currently executive director of food and previously director for home and direct. As group sales dipped 0.7 per cent in the first quarter, the retailer announced more reshuffling at the top: Belinda Earl, the former chief executive of Debenhams, Jaeger and Aquascutum, takes up the role of style director from 1st September; Steve Rowe currently director of retail, will be appointed executive director food, effective 1st October; Patrick Bousquet-Chavanne joins the company from 1st September 2012 in the new role of corporate director of strategy implementation and business development.
Another solid trading update from apparel detailed ASOS; retail sales are up 31 per cent to £137 million for the three months ending June. A growth of 8 per cent in the UK was “particularly encouraging”, said chief executive Nick Robertson. ASOS ‘ international business grew by 49 per cent driven by a strong performance in the US. International sales now represent 65 per cent of the total, up from 57 per cent last year.
Mail order brand Grattan celebrates its centenary with a fashion show in Bradford. The Telegraph & Argus has more.
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