Asda has confirmed the return of Darren Blackhurst as its new Chief Commercial Officer for Food, with the seasoned retail executive due to step into the role at the end of July.
Blackhurst is no stranger to Asda. He previously held the same post between 2006 and 2010, during which he helped shape the supermarket’s food strategy amid tough competition from rivals and changing shopper habits.
Since then, he has built up further board-level experience across major retailers, including senior positions at Morrisons, Matalan and Coles in Australia.
He will replace Kris Comerford, who is stepping down after three years leading Asda’s food commercial operations. In the meantime, Ian McEvans will oversee the day-to-day running of the commercial team until Blackhurst’s arrival.
Allan Leighton, Asda’s executive chairman, thanked Comerford for his contribution, describing him as “a valued leader who played a crucial role in steering our food business through significant change.”
Blackhurst rejoins Asda at a pivotal time. The grocer is pushing ahead with a £50 million store upgrade programme, a sharper pricing plan to compete with discounters, and an expansion of its convenience network — all designed to shore up market share in a fiercely competitive UK grocery sector.
Retail watchers say his return signals continuity and a renewed focus on delivering better value for shoppers at a time when household budgets remain tight.
Darren Blackhurst will officially take up his new post at the end of July.
