SPAR UK regional wholesaler A.F. Blakemore announced that Lawrence Shirazian has been appointed Managing Director (MD) of their newly formed Foodservice Business Unit. He will lead a business that unites Blakemore’s Foodservice, Fresh Meat, and Wholesale divisions.

Lawrence brings a wealth of experience from across the hospitality, leisure, catering and retail sectors. Having recently consulted for private equity and software companies in the hospitality space, Lawrence was previously Managing Director at Aramark UK for 14 years, leading operations across 700 locations and 8,000 colleagues. Lawrence also brings a depth and breadth of experience from senior roles at several companies in the food service sector.

Growing food service

Lawrence Shirazian said: “I am thrilled to be joining A.F. Blakemore to deliver the strategic vision at such an exciting time for their Foodservice businesses. I share the passion for creating value by providing our partners with great food and drink solutions borne out of a deep understanding of their customers and a need for operational efficiency.”

Carol Welch, CEO, commented: “We are delighted that Lawrence is joining us. His knowledge extends across a breadth of sectors making him ideally placed to oversee the newly formed business unit.  He brings a customer first approach coupled with deep operational understanding that will ensure we continue to create value through growth and productivity for our partners and our business.”

Source: AF Blakemore.

Read more about SPAR in the UK.

About SPAR UK

The United Kingdom became a SPAR member in 1956 when SPAR International granted the SPAR licence to a group of independent wholesalers. There are five regional organisations in the UK, continually building the brand’s presence. A central office in London provides national marketing and buying services for the group. SPAR UK comprises independently owned, licensed, retailers and company-owned stores.