THE Scottish Grocers’ Federation has strengthened its line of succession with the appointment of a new junior vice-president.
Moniaive retailer Graham Watson has taken on the role, which will see him succeed current vice president Craig Brown, retail director at JW Filshill. Brown will take on the top job himself in October, when current president and Musselburgh retailer Dan Brown’s term has concluded.
Watson, of Premier Watson’s Grocers, is an award winning and community minded retailer. The retailer was named Community Retailer of the Year at the Scottish Grocer Awards 2020.
Like many Scottish retailers, Watson and his family served their community well during the Covid lockdowns of the last few years, offering delivery services and providing free food and drink for those in need.
The retailer also found himself flying the flag for community retailing and Moniaive on BBC’s The One Show, when Scottish comic book writer Alan Grant – best known for his work on Batman and Judge Dredd – included the him in a fundraising comic Moniaive Fights Back.
Most recently, Watson was awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the community on the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List 2021.
Commenting on his new role, Watson said: “Taking on this role is a bit of daunting prospect but it is one which I am looking forward to immensely.
“The next few years will undoubtedly be amongst the most challenging our industry has ever faced and the crucial role SGF plays in supporting its members has never been more important.
“A key focus for me will be to help retailers connect with each other to ensure convenience stores are genuinely at the heart of their communities.”
Pete Cheema, chief executive of the SGF, said: “Graham’s experience and his passion for community retailing are huge assets to the Federation and I am delighted that the National Executive has made this appointment.
“Additionally, this new appointment means that the current presidential team is one of the strongest we have ever had and will ensure that SGF strengthens its leadership role across the industry.”
Watson scheduled to take on the SGF president position when Craig Brown’s term is complete in 2024.
