The high-end grocer is introducing Simon Burdess as its first director of foodservice.
Burdess, is considered somewhat of a guru in the foodservice space with a long and impressive background.
He is currently vice president, restaurants and bars, with InterContinental Hotels Group and has an established history in retail having previously been commercial director for Fortnum and Mason. He has also held various commercial roles at Marks & Spencer, including as category manager for in store hospitality.
As an upmarket grocer, Waitrose is broadening its horizons with the creation of the foodservice director role.
In-store “try before you buy” formats, The Kitchen and the Wine Bar, are currently running in some Waitrose stores offering shoppers the chance to sample food and drink.
It’s understood part of the new role will be to expand in-store grazing and concepts like this.
“We want our shops to be places where customers will feel excited by and inspired by food – and evolving our food service offer is vital in achieving this,” says Ben Stimson, retail director at Waitrose.
“Simon brings a wealth of experience which will be invaluable in ensuring our hospitality makes our shops dynamic and vibrant places to visit.”
Burdess will start his new role in September.
