Combined Independents (Holdings) Ltd (CIH), part of Euronics, Europe’s largest electrical buying organisation, has announced that its CEO Stuart Cook is to retire in 2021.

Cook, who is credited with underpinning the success of both CIH and the Euronics brands in the UK, has spent 25 years with the buying group, and will spend the next year transitioning CIH to its new head of operations.

Commenting on the announcement, CIH Chairman Steve Scogings said: ‘Stuart’s contribution to CIH over two and half decades cannot be understated. During his tenure, he has orchestrated three SAP implementations that have transformed the business, established the Euronics Agency Agreement and founded Blomberg, nurturing it into the significant UK white goods brand that it is today.’

‘Stuart can take credit for two new warehouse operations and upscaling member deliveries from once, to twice and now three times a week. He created Euronics.co.uk well in advance of the internet shopping revolution, launched the on-line ordering system and opened our first trade show at the NEC in 2006. He negotiated the Family Fund and Family Fund Business Services contracts, relaunched the Conference and partnered CIH with Retracare to supply warranties on consumer electronics,’ added Scogings.

‘The list of Stuart’s achievements at CIH is extensive, and he begins his winding down period with a legacy of many positive changes to his credit,’ continues Scogings. ‘Having established CIH as the buying group powerhouse that it is today, Stuart has built a tremendous base from which the new CEO can further build the brand, supplier business and member benefits into the future.’

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The new CEO appointment will be announced shortly. Day-to-day operations for suppliers and members will remain unaffected during this period.