After strong festive season, Mamas & Papas names new CEO and chair

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Jan 20, 2023

Building on a record performance for the Christmas trading period, baby and toddler retail specialist Mamas & Papas has announced key changes to its executive team.

Nathan Williams has been promoted from chief operating officer to chief executive to lead the company’s next phase of growth, which includes expansion into new and existing international markets.

Current CEO Mark Saunders, who joined the retailer three years ago as chief transformation officer, becomes executive chairman.

Williams joined Mamas & Papas in 2018 after senior merchandising roles at Very Group and Primark. He was promoted to COO in 2020 and has since been “a key figure in the turnaround,” the company said.

Across that period, Mamas & Papas turned a £6 million loss into a profit of more than £11 million, with sales growing from £95 million to £126 million.

The retailer also recently posted record Christmas trading figures as its sales jumped 16% in the eight weeks to December 25.

The company, which operates in 30 overseas markets, said it hopes to benefit from its reputation as a premium, design-led brand with British heritage and expand its reach.

Williams said: “We’ve built excellent momentum in the past few years in all areas of the business, from our store footprint to our digital offering, from our product to our purpose and from our domestic market to our overseas partnerships. This has helped us win a record share of the market, which is set for further growth.

“With the continuing support of our investors and with Mark as chairman, I’m looking forward to delivering our long-term growth strategy and fulfilling our goal of being the most accessible nursery brand with an unrivalled commitment to its customers.

“This means more concessions, more international trade and further investment in our brand, product, communities and colleagues as we aim to become the global nursery brand of choice.”