UK-based automotive and cycling retailer Halfords has announced the appointment of Henry Birch as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Graham Stapleton, who will step down after a seven-year tenure. The leadership change comes at a promising time for the company, which has shown a notable rebound in performance and investor confidence.
Henry Birch, former CEO of The Very Group and Rank Group, brings with him extensive experience in digital transformation and consumer-focused retail strategy. His appointment signals a renewed focus on driving growth, enhancing customer experience, and leveraging technology to strengthen Halfords’ market position.
The announcement was accompanied by an upbeat trading update, with the company reporting a return to like-for-like retail sales growth in the second half of the financial year. Encouraged by the strong performance, Halfords now expects its 2025 pretax profit to reach the upper end of its £32–£37 million forecast range, a sharp improvement after a challenging period impacted by inflation and supply chain pressures.
Following the announcement, Halfords’ shares jumped 12.7%, reaching a seven-week high. The sharp rise underscores growing investor optimism about the company’s direction under new leadership and its improving financial health.
Analysts have welcomed the news, noting that Birch’s track record of innovation and strategic growth could help accelerate Halfords’ recovery and long-term development. “Henry Birch is a strong choice to lead Halfords through its next phase. His experience in e-commerce and retail transformation aligns well with the challenges and opportunities facing the business,” said retail analyst Emma Clarke of MarketWatch UK.
Halfords has been focusing on expanding its services division, particularly in car servicing, MOTs, and mobile repair units, to diversify revenue streams beyond retail. The company’s commitment to building a tech-driven, service-led business is expected to be a key pillar of its growth strategy under Birch’s leadership.
As consumers continue to prioritize value and convenience in the face of economic uncertainty, Halfords’ dual offering of retail and services positions it well to meet evolving customer needs. The company is also expected to continue investing in digital platforms, supply chain efficiency, and sustainability initiatives.
With a strong new CEO at the helm, rising profits, and renewed market confidence, Halfords appears poised for a positive trajectory in 2025 and beyond.
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