Holland & Barrett names new CEO to steer next phase of transformation

Holland & Barrett has appointed Anthony Houghton as Group CEO as the company embarks on its next chapter of growth and transformation.

Houghton first joined the British retailer as Group Retail & Property Director in September 2018, before serving as COO and most recently as CEO for UK&I.

His new appointment as Group CEO reflects Holland & Barrett’s continued focus on "stability and strong succession planning" with a continued focus on "the delivery of the company’s transformation strategy".

"It is with immense pride that I get the opportunity to lead a business with such a clear purpose: to support the health and wellness of our customers while fostering an environment where our colleagues and communities can flourish," said Houghton.

"What I have seen achieved by this business over the past seven years is a real testament to the incredible dedication and talent of our people.

"Their commitment every day, combined with the undoubted significant potential of the team, gives me great confidence that the investments we’ve made and the plans we’ve put in place will not only keep Holland & Barrett competitive in today’s market, but position us to lead for years to come."

It comes as Holland & Barrett also appoints Vineta Bajaj as its new Group Chief Financial Officer.

Bajaj worked at Ocado Group from June 2013 to December 2022, holding a range of roles, including several finance director positions.

"I’m thrilled to be joining Holland & Barrett at such an exciting moment in its journey," Bajaj said.

"As the business accelerates its transformation to become a global, digital-first wellness leader, I look forward to bringing my experience in omnichannel retail, e-commerce and Al & technology-led growth to support its bold ambitions.

"It’s a fantastic brand with a powerful purpose in a sector that’s only growing in relevance and impact."

The news follows a 10% rise sales, reaching £884.5 million for the year ending 30 September 2024, with growth continuing into the first half of FY25.

Gross profit increased to £524.2 million, versus £475.7 million in the previous financial year, following "significant investment" in the company's digital transformation strategy.

The health and beauty retailer also attributed its performance to a continued focus on a customer-first approach and its strategy aimed at meeting the growing demand for wellness and preventative health solutions.

As part of this, Holland & Barrett’s transformation and investment strategy has been focused on four key areas:

Talent and colleagues - including in 'qualified to advise' training, and maintaining store colleague pay at approximately 5% above the National Living Wage.

High street and communities - including the opening of 36 new stores and the transformation of over 320 existing locations, along with the launch of new partnerships and concessions with both existing and new partners across the UK, Ireland, and internationally.

Products and service innovation - including the expansion of its own-label range with an additional 400 products, taking the total to over 1,000 new science-backed offerings introduced over the past two years.

Transformation of technology and digital presence - including an overhaul of operations by transitioning from legacy systems to more sophisticated platforms, enhancing customer reach through personalised solutions and a fully modernised supply chain.