[06.01.2004]

Andrew Blatherwick joins Alphameric

Andrew Blatherwick, former managing director of JDA’s European, Middle East and Africa division, has joined Alphameric plc as managing director of the company’s retail division. His remit is to build on Alphameric’s position as the UK’s leading retail solutions specialist and extend this success into Europe and the USA.

Commenting on the appointment, Alphameric group chief executive Alan Morcombe says, “Andrew brings valuable retail experience to the Alphameric senior management team and his track record in growing businesses in the UK and Europe is impressive. Alphameric’s ability to attract Andrew from one of its largest competitors is a sign that we are beginning to get the recognition our success demands. The timing of Andrew’s appointment is particularly fitting as the recent demise of NSB Retail’s UK operation will open up a wealth of new opportunities.”

Blatherwick has over 20 years’ experience in the retail industry. During his two years with JDA, he was instrumental in growing the company’s European operation to record levels. Prior to this, Blatherwick was president of E3’s Europe region and held supply chain management positions with several leading European retailers including Boots and Iceland Foods.

“The challenge for me at Alphameric is clear – to grow a well respected retail solutions specialist and create a business that is not just recognised in the UK but also in Europe and the USA,” says Blatherwick. “Alphameric has a great track record and is a very trustworthy business. It has recently introduced market leading software across its range and has a prestigious list of customers. That said, the company has not enjoyed the public recognition its success deserves. This is therefore a great opportunity for me to bring to the fore the many strengths the group has. I am also looking forward to working with a management team that I believe will come to be recognised as one of the most innovative in the marketplace.”

This major appointment follows Alphameric’s expansion in 2003 through the acquisition of merchandise planning and decision support specialists Compass Software. Blatherwick will be leading a very strong retail team comprising of Ian Bowater (former Chief Executive of Compass), Phillip Canning and Mark Stone.