Stuart Cook, the CEO of CIH (part of Euronics), has announced he is to retire in 2021. A replacement appointment will be announced shortly, and Mr Cook said he will be smoothly transitioning CIH to its new head of operations over the coming year to ensure minimal disruption to the business.
Having spent 25 years working for the UK’s largest electricals buying group and 13 years as Director of Euronics International, Mr Cook can be credited for underpinning the success of both CIH and the Euronics brand in the UK. With a solid legacy in place, he felt that the time was approaching when he would like to spend more time with his family, travel the world and enjoy the fruits of his labour.
Commenting on the announcement, CIH Chairman, Steve Scogings, said: “Stuart’s contribution to CIH over two and half decades cannot be understated. During his tenure, he has orchestrated three SAP implementations that have transformed the business, established the Euronics Agency Agreement and founded Blomberg, nurturing it into the significant UK white goods brand that it is today.
“Stuart can take credit for two new warehouse operations and upscaling member deliveries from once, to twice and now three times a week,” added Mr Scogings. “He created euronics.co.uk well in advance of the internet shopping revolution, launched the online ordering system and opened our first trade show at the NEC in 2006. He negotiated the Family Fund and Family Fund Business Services contracts, relaunched the Conference and partnered CIH with Retracare to supply warranties on consumer electronics.”
Mr Cook was also instrumental in successfully navigating CIH through the start of COVID-19 and supporting members throughout lockdown, with CIH subsequently reporting record summer trading this year. The buying group has extensive marketing plans and offers for members through Black Friday, Prime Day and Christmas 2020, demonstrating that independent electrical retail is alive and well.
“The list of Stuart’s achievements at CIH is extensive,” continue Mr Scogings, “and he begins his winding down period with a legacy of many positive changes to his credit.
“Having established CIH as the buying group powerhouse that it is today, Stuart has built a tremendous base from which the new CEO can further build the brand, supplier business and member benefits into the future.”
Mr Cook will be scaling down to three days per week from September this year, with the view to taking full retirement in September 2021.
