I Grunwerg has revealed its new management team, which is eager to spearhead sustained growth. Several new director appointments include the promotion of Benjamin Grunwerg to managing director. The new look management team was formed on the April 29, marking the end of the leadership of Charles and David Grunwerg, who stepped down in 2018 and 2022 respectively. David was awarded The Outstanding Achievement Award at The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2021 for his contribution to the housewares industry.
“Today brings to an end a long period of changes which started with the retirement of Charles Grunwerg in 2018, our move to new warehousing and office facilities in 2019 and Covid disruptions,” commented Ben. “We are sad to see David step down, having led the business ably for over 50 years; his knowledge, experience, passion and leadership will be hard to replace. We do however expect him to remain close to the business and offer his advice and guidance through our strong family ties.”
Having worked within the business for 13 years, Ben will provide company strategic leadership, working with suppliers and product designers to develop the next generation of the company’s products. Ben will also oversee the development of the company’s D2C channels, marketing strategy and ecommerce development.
Tom Basford is promoted to sales director having joined the business as a territorial sales representative in 2003. Tom brings a wealth of industry experience to the company having worked previously with Brabantia and Meyer Group. Tom will manage the company’s customer relationships and work to improve customer service.
Alex Beatie is promoted to finance director having joined the business in 2018 from the food manufacturing industry. Alex will look after Grunwerg’s operations, including its warehousing and logistics, driving efficiency and performance. Alex will also manage the company’s finances and HR team.
Anna Grunwerg and Adam Grunwerg have been appointed non-executive directors. Adam Grunwerg is founding partner of Finixio, market leading digital media affiliates. Adam will provide external advice and strategy as well as advising on the use of technology within the company. Anna continues her work in Human Resources whilst studying for her CIPD qualifications.
As well as these appointments, the company has welcomed several new key members of staff; Chetan Patel as knives from Japan business manager, Kate Williams as ecommerce manager, Laura Abson as marketing manager, Oliver Walker as IT manager and Katie Lloyd as catering sales manager.
“I am personally delighted to welcome onto the board Alex and Tom, both of whom I have worked with for some time and who have already added so much to the business with their work ethic and ideas,” said Ben. “I am also delighted to welcome my sister, Anna as the company’s first female director, along with my brother Adam who runs his own successful business.”
He enthused: “We are incredibly excited to initiate a long and sustained period of growth. We have state of the art facilities in Chesterfield, strong finances and the best team of people I have worked with in my 13 years at Grunwerg.”
Looking to the future, Ben stated: “We have ambitious plans to create new products, improve our warehouse facilities and move into new markets. Our new London showroom is due to open in September in the basement of Santoku where we expect to launch over 200 new products this year. Our family business philosophy will continue to inspire us. We will continue to provide outstanding working conditions in Chesterfield, excellent customer service and quality products.”
Grunwerg’s brands include Global, Rockingham Forge, Grunwerg cutlery, Pioneer and Commichef cookware.
Top: David Grunwerg (right) hands over to the new board of directors at Grunwerg, including (left to right): Adam Grunwerg, Tom Basford, Ben Grunwerg, Alex Beatie and Anna Grunwerg.
