h&b Buying Group has announced the appointments of Damian Royds as Trading Director, and Steve Bennett as Procurement Director.

Damian Royds brings a wealth of merchant industry knowledge and experience to the position. Royds' background in the merchanting sector, which includes stints in retail and distribution, as well as national and independent merchants, coupled with his understanding of merchant dynamics and distribution networks, positions him well to contribute to h&b's trading strategies, helping merchant members to support negotiated deals and work collaboratively with them to grow their businesses.

Steve Bennett will leverage his expertise in procurement in the sector to optimise processes, foster supplier relationships, and develop collaborative opportunities. His insights will be invaluable in further refining h&b's procurement practices, ultimately enhancing the group's ability to provide enhanced value to members.

“Our goal at h&b is very much to support members in getting competitive deals and develop category initiatives that give them strategic advantage in their local marketplace, plus adding value to their business. The h&b team and the members will work together to support those deals proactively and profitably”, said Royds.

“The team at h&b are also committed to providing our suppliers with a strategic and professional backing, to develop the value they can achieve from the group and continue to develop relationships and partnerships within our supply chain.”