Asda named former Morrisons chief David Potts group CEO on Nov. 3, putting him in charge of improving sales at the British supermarket chain as Allan Leighton stepped away from daily management.
The change took effect immediately, Asda said. Leighton, who returned as executive chairman in 2024, became nonexecutive group chairman. Asda said the shift had been planned. Leighton’s return came as the chain faced declining sales and market share.
Potts became Morrisons CEO in March 2015 and left in 2023. During his tenure, the chain was acquired by U.S. private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice. Before joining Morrisons, he led Tesco businesses in Ireland, Britain and Asia.
Leighton said Asda had steadied under his leadership and begun to grow again. Potts said better shopping trips and lower prices would be central to improving sales. He identified the Christmas season as a period when the company would focus on keeping prices low for customers.
