The former managing director of SPAR International, Dr Gordon Campbell, has been honoured at the World Retail Congress (WRC) in Dubai with the Outstanding Leadership Award.
The award is presided over by the WRC grand jury, which selects an individual that its members believe best demonstrates by leadership that he or she has delivered business success, new ideas, executional excellence as well as passion for the brand and how it serves the targeted customers. Previous winners include Primark CEO Paul Marchant, former Burberry CEO Angela Ahrendts and John Lewis Partnership Chairman Charlie Mayfield.
Speaking at the WRC ceremony in Dubai, Dr Campbell said he was proud and honoured to receive the award.
“I accept it on behalf of all our independent retail partners that operate the SPAR brand in 42 countries around the world,” he said. “This award is recognition of their success. I would also like to thank all my colleagues at SPAR International over the last 22 years, without whose support this award would not have been possible.”
Current SPAR International Managing Director Tobias Wasmuht presented the award to Dr Campbell.
Addressing the audience of more than 800 leaders in global retail, Mr Wasmuht said Dr Campbell had dedicated his working life to the development and growth of independent food retail internationally.
“Through his leadership, dedication and passion he has been able to grow and develop the SPAR brand into a truly global retailer,” Mr Wasmuht said. “I would like to personally congratulate my friend, colleague and mentor on this extraordinary achievement.”
Dr Campbell continues to contribute to SPAR’s worldwide success as an adviser to the board of SPAR International. The brand last week reported retail sales of €33 billion ($47.8 billion) for 2015.
