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26 January 2023
Hostmore plc
Change of Chairman
Hostmore plc ("Hostmore" or the "Company") announces that Gavin Manson will retire as Chairman and as a non-executive director of the Company at the end of the Annual General Meeting ("AGM") on 25 May 2023, to focus on his other executive commitments.
The Board is pleased to announce that Stephen Welker, a current non-executive director, has agreed to become Chairman-designate and will succeed Gavin as Chairman at the conclusion of the AGM, subject to Stephen being elected as a director at the AGM.
Upon being appointed Chairman-designate, Stephen will chair the Nominations Committee and become a member of its Disclosure Committee.
David Lis, Hostmore's Senior Independent Director, said: "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Gavin for the contribution he has made to Hostmore. Gavin played an integral role in the demerger of the Company from Electra Private Equity PLC and his experience, knowledge and leadership have been greatly valued by us all. He goes with our best wishes for the future.
We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Stephen Welker as Chairman-designate. Stephen brings unique strategic insight into our business, which, combined with his financial, commercial and investor relations expertise, will be invaluable as we grow and strengthen the business."
Gavin Manson, Chairman, said: "It has been a privilege to have served as Chairman of Hostmore and I am pleased that Stephen will succeed me in this role, given his understanding and knowledge of the business, along with his other strengths. Though I remain a supportive significant shareholder, I will now be focusing on my other executive commitments and wish everyone at the Company all the best for the future."
Commenting on his appointment, Stephen Welker, Chairman-designate, added: "I am pleased to have been asked to become Chairman of Hostmore and look forward to working with the executive management team and the Board to help deliver on the Company's key objectives.
It has been a pleasure to work with Gavin for a number of years and I wish him the best in his future endeavours."
ENDS
Enquiries
Hostmore plc
Gavin Manson, Chairman Tel: +44 (0)330 460 5588
Alan Clark, Chief Financial Officer
Email: enquiries@hostmoregroup.com
MHP
Oliver Hughes, Simon Hockridge, Eleni Menikou Tel: +44 (0)203 128 8100
Email: Hostmore@mhpgroup.com
About Hostmore
Hostmore plc is a UK hospitality business which runs the American-themed casual dining brand, 'Fridays' (formerly TGI Fridays), the cocktail-led bar and restaurant brand, '63rd+1st', and the fast casual dining brand 'Fridays and Go'.
The Group was established in 2021 to provide a platform for the development and growth of attractive hospitality brands, defined by their iconic brand experience and vibrant heritage. Hostmore is focused on the organic growth of its existing brands, alongside expanding through new, exciting concepts which have roll-out potential.
Hostmore currently operates 91 sites in the UK, the majority of which are in high footfall locations, including retail parks, shopping centres and city centres.
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