Asda chief executive role goes to ex-Morrisons boss David Potts

The former shelf-stacker now tasked with turning Asda around

Potts' career in retail began at just 16, when he took a job stacking shelves at Tesco. He gradually climbed the ranks over several decades, eventually becoming head of the company's UK business before moving to Morrisons, where he served as chief executive from 2015 to 2023.

He left after the supermarket was acquired by US investment firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, according to the Guardian.

His appointment at Asda takes effect immediately, with the retailer turning to his industry experience as it attempts to address a difficult trading period. 

Sales fell by 0.5% in the three months to 4 October, despite efforts to lower prices and improve the availability of products in stores.

Aldi’s rise adds pressure to Asda’s change at the top

The supermarket is also facing a growing challenge from Aldi, which is closing in on Asda's position as Britain's third-largest grocery chain.

Leighton, who has headed Asda since 2024, will remain with the company as non-executive chair. 

His new responsibilities will centre on longer-term planning, allowing Potts to take over the day-to-day running of the business.

The decision to look outside the company for a successor was unexpected, given Leighton had previously suggested the role would go to an existing member of Asda's team. 

However, he has publicly backed the incoming chief executive, saying he was "really excited" to bring Potts on board and praising his "outstanding record" in the supermarket industry. 

Potts also spent the past two years helping to stabilise Asda's finances.