‘Years of longevity’: Matalan releases first brand platform as transformation ramps up
Former Co-op customer director Ali Jones joined the fashion retailer last April and is on a mission to turn the brand around.
By Molly Innes
Matalan’s transformation project has been a long time coming. The retailer, which celebrates its 40th birthday next year, was in murky waters post-pandemic.
The business had accrued £350m in debt before being taken over by a group of investors, a move which ended founder and chairman John Hargreaves’ control of the chain.
In March 2023, former Co-op CEO Jo Whitfield joined the business as its new boss. She was followed closely by former Co-op customer director Ali Jones, who was appointed Matalan chief customer and omni-channel officer in April. Their task? To turn the chain’s fortunes around – a job easier said than done.
