Appleby Westward, the regional distribution company for Spar stores in the South West, has appointed Steve Thomas to the new post of head of independent sales. Simon Warren, existing head of sales, has been appointed to the new position of head of multiple accounts.

Thomas joined the company from Roadchef Motorways where he was the site director for the recently-refurbished Sedgemoor Motorway Service Area on the M5, which includes a Spar store.

Thomas, who had worked for Roadchef for nearly 10 years, had previous extensive retail experience with Somerfield.

Appleby Westward has also promoted Chris Gittins to senior business development manager. He will retain his existing accounts in the Cornwall area, but also work closely with Thomas on the day-to-day running of the independent sales department.