Former Unitas Wholesale business development manager has joined the Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) as member development and liaison officer.

John Farrell, who was previously retail operations manager (north) for Landmark before the merger of that group and Today’s to form Unitas Wholesale, is tasked with strengthening relationships with members and member suppliers, encouraging greater engagement and involvement with the work and activities of the SWA.

In addition, he will be responsible for recruitment and work with suppliers and other partners on joint business and strategy development opportunities within the SWA.

Colin Smith, SWA chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to have secured an industry professional of the calibre of John Farrell to help strengthen our trade association for the benefit of members and the wider wholesale industry.

“John brings with him a wealth of experience and contacts in the industry which will prove invaluable to the SWA as we navigate the many challenges – and opportunities – that we face in the future.”

Farrell, who has also previously worked for Londis, commented: “Wholesale is an exciting industry and SWA members operate some of the most innovative businesses in the sector in the UK.

“The SWA is ideally placed to help harness that innovation through collaboration, training and using its position as a robust and vocal trade association to raise the profile of the industry as a great place to work.”