Associated Independent Stores (AIS) has announced that Managing Director Sue Kemp will be stepping down from her role at the end of December 2026.
The timing of the announcement allows for a structured transition of governance during the remainder of the organisation’s 50th anniversary year.
Over the past seven years, Sue has focused on the commercial transformation and stabilisation of AIS, navigating the challenges of Brexit and the pandemic to place the business on a more sustainable financial footing. Her tenure has also seen improved operational governance and the continued resilience of the INDX trade shows within a challenging retail market.
Sue Kemp said: “Over the past seven years, my key focus has been to commercially transform and stabilise AIS. We have successfully moved the business onto a more sustainable financial footing, having had to navigate the volatility of the pandemic and Brexit – as well as the many subsequent economic challenges that have faced us all.
“I’ve also strengthened our governance to ensure we operate with more transparency and the professionalism required in today’s retail and business landscape. Our commercial strength as a buying group is perhaps most visible in the success of our INDX shows; while many industry trade shows have unfortunately disappeared, INDX is withstanding market contraction and continues to be a vital platform for our suppliers and Members.
“I’ve been very lucky to work with a diverse and inspiring group of businesses and individuals and certainly no two days have been the same! I have genuinely loved every moment of it, whether it was the excitement of onboarding new Members, the reward of supporting businesses across our many categories or helping owners through their exit strategies as they prepared for a well-deserved retirement. Thank you to everyone who has made my role so rewarding and incredibly special.
“For the remainder of the year, it’s business as usual and I’m here for you all as always and will be working closely with the Board to manage a seamless handover.”
Darryl Simpson, AIS Chair, added: “The Board and I would like to thank Sue for her remarkable leadership over the past 7 years. She has been a driving force, withstanding some of the most turbulent times in our history, guiding AIS towards our aims of stability and operational strength.
“Crucially, Sue has built a great team around her and with the robust governance she has implemented we can now move forward with confidence. Our Members can rest assured that this transition is already well underway and being managed with care and focus. We are grateful for Sue’s commitment through this landmark 50th year.”
The Board will provide further updates regarding the leadership transition in due course.
