AF Blakemore has been ranked fifth among the UK’s 50 largest private companies for women in leadership, according to the FTSE Women Leaders Report 2026.
The Spar wholesaler said the ranking reflected its sustained investment in developing female talent and its ambition to reach 50% women in leadership by 2030, with the current figure at 47.8%.
It follows a trio of recent appointments that further support AF Blakemore’s commitment to advancing women into senior roles.
Most recently, Kelly Burrows was promoted to head of supply chain. Burrows joined the business as a graduate eight years ago and has built her career in what remains a “traditionally male‑dominated field”, the wholesaler said.
“I’ve been fortunate to build my career here, and I’m proud to work in a business that invests in women and creates opportunities in areas like logistics and supply chain, where female representation has historically been low,” said Burrows. “This recognition reflects the progress we’ve made, and the potential we still have ahead.”
In December, former Co-op commercial buying manager Kerrie Viggars joined AF Blakemore as trading director for ambient.
Anna Hay was appointed marketing and customer experience director in January, having previously held a similar role at Poundland and Dealz.
Carol Welch, chief executive of AF Blakemore, said: “Ranking 5th in the UK’s Top 50 private companies, and leading the grocery and convenience retail sector, is a strong endorsement of the progress we’re making.
”Kelly’s promotion and the appointment of Kerrie and Anna are clear examples of the talent and capability within our business. We remain focused on creating an inclusive environment reflective of our customer base, where everyone can thrive. This includes strengthening our pipeline and enabling talented women to build successful careers.”
The business has also strengthened policies around menopause, maternity and shared parental leave, and works closely with its diversity networks to ensure women feel supported and able to progress.
AF Blakemore added that it would “continue to invest in programmes that support female progression”.
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