SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: Metcash (ASX: MTS), a leading wholesale distribution and marketing company, has announced the retirement of its Liquor CEO Chris Baddock, who has led the business for the past three years. Baddock has overseen a 40% increase in sales across the Liquor pillar, which includes retail and on-premise customers, and owned and exclusive brands.

Baddock is stepping down with the business well positioned for continued success, leaving behind a successful growth strategy and a highly regarded management team. John Barakat, the Liquor pillar’s General Manager of Merchandise and Operations, will lead the Liquor team while the Company searches for a successor.

Baddock plans to take a four-month break and then return to Metcash in a part-time advisory role to assist with the ongoing growth and success of the Liquor pillar.

Metcash Group CEO Doug Jones thanked Baddock for his significant contribution and wished him all the best for a full recovery. Jones said Baddock was a strong proponent of Metcash’s purpose of Championing Successful Independents.