VETERAN retail leader Allan Leighton has been appointed executive chairman of Asda, promising a comprehensive turnaround that could take up to five years.
The 71-year-old, who previously helped transform the supermarket in the late 1990s, has outlined an ambitious plan to restore the retailer's competitive edge.
Leighton believes Asda must urgently address several critical challenges. His primary focus is to "restore Asda's DNA", particularly by improving pricing strategies and operational efficiency.
In his first communications with staff, he stressed the need to return to the retailer's core strength of competitive pricing.
“We’ve got to get back to our Asda Price position. That’s what sets us apart from our competition,” Leighton wrote in his email to staff. “I wouldn’t have come back if I didn’t think it was possible. We’ve been here before and I’m confident we can do it again.”
He stressed the importance of simplifying operations and meeting customer expectations, particularly in product availability.
The supermarket chain has faced significant challenges since its £6.8 billion takeover by TDR Capital and the Issa brothers in 2021. Market share has declined, dropping from 13.5 per cent to 12.5 per cent in just one year, with competitors like Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi, and Lidl gaining ground.
Key issues plaguing the retailer include substantial debt from the leveraged buyout and complicated IT system transitions after separating from Walmart's infrastructure. Leighton acknowledged these technical challenges, stating they are "fixable" but require strategic intervention.
The new executive chairman plans to address three primary objectives: restoring the company's pricing approach, improving product availability, and recruiting a new chief executive. He's seeking a leader who understands shoppers and people management, rather than exclusively focusing on retail experience.
Leighton's return comes after Stuart Rose's departure, marking a significant leadership change. According to reports, he has committed to developing a comprehensive revival strategy by the end of January, confident in the support of shareholders: TDR Capital, Mohsin Issa, and Walmart.
Having previously led Asda to a successful £6bn sale to Walmart in 1999, Leighton brings extensive experience. He described his return as feeling "totally back home", suggesting a deep connection with the brand.
The retailer currently operates 580 supermarkets and over 500 convenience stores. Ownership structure has also recently changed, with Zuber Issa selling his 22.5 per cent stake to TDR Capital. The current ownership stands at 67.5 per cent TDR Capital, 22.5 per cent Mohsin Issa, and 10 per cent Walmart.
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Big B defends his choice to praise Abhishek openly and others privately
Amitabh Bachchan reveals why he praises Abhishek publicly but not Jaya or Aishwarya
Quick highlights:
Amitabh Bachchan has responded to online comments asking why he often praises son Abhishek Bachchan on social media but not wife Jaya Bachchan, daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai, or daughter Shweta. The actor explained that while he chooses to support Abhishek publicly, he honours the women in his family privately, saying he prefers to respect them “in his heart.”
Bachchan defends Abhishek praise, addresses fan remarks online
The 81-year-old actor, who regularly shares photos and thoughts with fans, recently posted images of himself meeting admirers outside his Mumbai home, Jalsa. Captioned “Yes, I praise Abhishek. So?”, the post sparked comments from users questioning why he doesn’t do the same for Jaya, Aishwarya, or Shweta.
Responding directly, Bachchan wrote, “Yes, I shall praise them in my heart… not publicly… respect for the ladies.” His reply quickly circulated across platforms, with many praising his thoughtful answer. Others pointed to his tendency to engage more often when defending Abhishek, especially around film releases.
Bachchan also shut down a user accusing him of having “paid fans,” bluntly replying, “Prove it! You are small-minded… why don’t you pay and get fans too?” When another person mocked those waiting outside his home as “unemployed,” he replied with characteristic wit: “So give them a job? When they stand at the gate of Jalsa, they are EMPLOYED in love.”
Actor remains active on social media while juggling film projects
Bachchan has become increasingly interactive online in recent years, often directly responding to criticism and fan feedback. Meanwhile, Abhishek was last seen in Housefull 5, a multi-starrer comedy that released earlier this month. Jaya Bachchan appeared in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023, while Aishwarya Rai was part of Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan films. Despite the online chatter, Amitabh continues to walk his own path, on-screen and online.