The Scottish Grocers Federation has announced the appointment of bp’s Central Operations Director, UK retail, Andrew Kenney, as the next Vice President of the trade association’s National Executive board.
Mr Kenney will take up the role from 2 October, at the SGF Annual Conference 2024, replacing the current VP, Graham Watson (Watson’s Licensed Grocers), who will now take up his post as SGF President for the next two years.
“We are incredibly pleased to have Andy on board as the VP for the next two years, and I’m very much looking forward to working closely with him on a variety of issues impacting our sector," said SGF Chief Executive, Dr Pete Cheema OBE. "He brings a wealth of experience in both retail and business, with over 25 years at bp and years of service on our National Executive.
“Andy is the first person in SGF’s 106 history to come from a forecourt background, which will add a different stance to the everchanging convenience market.
“bp are an enormously valued member of SGF. Forecourts make up a substantial sub-section of the convenience sector, providing an additional lifeline and service for many communities across the country.”
Andy Kenneysaid: “I am delighted to be taking up my new VP post on SGF’s board, and I want to thank all the members of SGF who have supported and encouraged me. I would like to thank Graham and I’m particularly looking forward to working more closely with him in his new role as President, and Pete as SGF Chief Exec., both of whom consistently deliver huge value and support to our industry.
“bp has a long, proud history in Scotland – we opened our first fuel station on the Shetland Islands in 1922 and there are now over 100 bp retail sites in Scotland. We are working to transform forecourt convenience with everything from fuels to more electric vehicle (EV) charging, high-quality food and drink and a great customer experience.
“I am proud to be part of the SGF team who are at the very core of our sector in Scotland, tirelessly representing members day in day out – engaging and linking up stakeholders across business and at all levels of government, hosting key annual events, and providing support for the whole supply chain”.
Craig Brown
Craig Brown, outgoing SGF President, and Chief Sales & Marketing Office, JW Filshill also commented: “At the SGF, we are delighted that one of our most active National Executive members, Andy Kenney, has agreed to take on the role of Vice President, supporting incoming President Graham Watson.
“With Graham’s passion for community retailing and innovation, and Andy’s 25 years’ experience with bp, we have a dynamic duo who will lead the SGF – supporting CEO Pete Cheema and his talented, dedicated team of individuals – for the next two years. The forecourt sector is dynamic and fast-paced, and Andy’s vast knowledge will be invaluable to the SGF and its members.’’
The appointment will take place during the President’s Welcome Dinner at the Annual Conference, Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow on Wednesday 2nd October 2024.
Simon Hannah
