What: Morleys, the regional department store chain, has named Allan Winstanley as its new CEO, following the departure of its previous CEO to Fenwick.

Why it is important: Winstanley’s appointment brings extensive international retail experience, positioning him to lead Morleys through challenging trading conditions and oversee its continued growth and profitability.

Allan Winstanley is set to take over as CEO of Morleys in January 2025, following a successful tenure at Myer department stores in Australia, where he co-led the company’s turnaround. With a career spanning key positions at Sears in the US, De Bijenkorf in the Netherlands, and House of Fraser in the UK, Winstanley’s appointment is expected to strengthen Morleys' leadership as it navigates cost pressures and tight margins. Morleys, an independent chain with eight stores in the London suburbs and home counties, continues to face challenging market conditions but reported a 4.2% increase in department store sales last year. Winstanley’s experience will be critical as the company seeks to enhance profitability while maintaining its premium and mid-market brand offerings.

Morleys appoints Allan Winstanley as new CEO