Chris Dyson, joint managing director of Cardgains Buying Group, has announced his retirement, with marketing director Penny Shaw, who has been with the company for 25 years, taking on the role from 1 January 2023.
“I’m delighted to have this opportunity to further develop Cardgains and futureproof it for our members and suppliers,” states Penny. “I remember when I first joined Cardgains all those years ago asking Chris ‘why isn’t every retailer a member of Cardgains?’ as it has so many advantages.”
Comments Chris: “I know that Penny, along with the recent appointment of Miles Robinson, co-owner of House of Cards, as chairman, and Aga Marsden, co-owner of Highworth Emporium in Highworth, as our new non-executive director, will continue to move the company forward in the years to come. I’m obviously privy to some of the changes that are planned and can tell you, it’s in good hands and there are exciting times ahead.”
Continues Chris: “I have had nearly 30 years with Bridewell UK and Cardgains and loved every minute, getting to know hundreds of members and numerous suppliers as we carried on the fight on behalf of the independent retailer. The spirit of the independent retailer, the supplier support and the part we play makes our group of independent Cardgains members a major player in the industry with turnover this year expected to reach £25million.”
Current gift suppliers include Widdop & Co., Enesco, Wax Lyrical, Yankee Candle and WPL Gifts.
The Cardgains Charity Challenge for 2023 will be in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, in memory of Really Good and Soul founder David Hicks, who died earlier this year. While details have yet to be finalised, all Cardgains members will be invited to participate.
Although Chris officially retires at the end of this year, he will nevertheless be assisting on the Cardgains Village at Spring Fair, which takes place from 5-8 February, 2023.
Top: It’s goodbye from Chris Dyson as Penny Shaw becomes managing director at Cardgains.
