Kitwave announces changes

Kitwave Group plc has announced that Ben Maxted, currently Chief Operating Officer, will become Chief Executive Officer after Paul Young announced his retirement from March 2024

Steve Smith, Chairman of Kitwave, commented: “Paul’s retirement next year will mark the end of a remarkable career with Kitwave. Having founded the Company in 1987 as a single-site confectionery business Paul has been instrumental in its growth and development into the delivered wholesale business that it is today. On behalf of everyone at Kitwave, we thank Paul for his vision and enduring contribution to the Group and we wish him well in his retirement.”

Paul Young, Chief Executive Officer of Kitwave, said: “On behalf of the Directors, we are delighted to announce that Ben Maxted [pictured top] will become Chief Executive Officer following my retirement at the Company’s AGM in March 2024. As Chief Operating Officer, Ben has demonstrated excellent commercial and operational expertise and these skills will continue to be invaluable in his new role and in delivering the next phase of our growth strategy.

“The Board continues to remain committed to delivering value to our shareholders. I believe that Kitwave will continue to go from strength to strength and post my departure, I look forward to being a long-term shareholder in the Company.”

The Group has also announced a trading update, reporting a strong performance for the first half of 2023, and full-year finances expected to be in line with current market expectations. This follows the integration of specialist fresh produce wholesaler West Country Food Holdings and the beginning of the construction of a new 80,000 sq. ft. distribution centre to integrate the Group’s south west operations.

Ben Maxted Kitwave Paul Young Steve Smith