Countrywide announces new Head of Retail

Countrywide, the UK's leading farming and rural supplies business, has announced the appointment of Garry Wharmby as its new Head of Retail. Garry, who takes up the post this week, will report to Countrywide's Managing Director John Hardman and be responsible for the strategic development of Countrywide's rapidly growing retail business.

Garry, aged 44, joins Countrywide having held a range of senior level retail positions including roles with Gilesports, Sears (Europe) and B&Q. He will be based at the company's head office in Defford, Worcestershire, but will be spending much time on site across Countrywide's 40 Country Stores nationwide.

"This is an exciting time for me to be joining Countrywide and I am really looking forward to joining the team who are really committed and loyal to the aims of the business," says Garry. "Countrywide is well respected in the market place, and as such we are in a position to actively grow our retail business reinforcing our position as market leaders in this sector. The online business will continue to develop to offer customers a credible and sustainable additional channel to buy our products and services," he added.

John Hardman is Countrywide's Managing Director, who comments: "During the last three years our retail team has delivered a significant turnaround in the financial performance of the business."

"We are now ready for the next phase of expansion. Garrys' appointment is a real boost to the growth and expansion plans for our retail business. He will bring new skills and concepts to the team, and under his leadership I am confident the business will grow in line with our strategic plans," John adds.