The Retail Trust has named three new members to its board of trustees as the holiday season approaches, a time when retail workers frequently experience increased stress and financial difficulties. These appointments coincide with the charity’s efforts to expand its support for employees dealing with workplace abuse and financial hardship.
Joining the board are Richard Hulme, head of UK commercial surveying and property management at Savills; Vivienne King, a consultant with Impactful Places; and Nathan Peacey, a partner at Foot Anstey. Their roles align with the trust’s goal of enhancing assistance for retail staff during the high-pressure Christmas shopping season.
Hundreds of companies, including Amazon, Sainsbury’s, and New Look, are backing the charity’s Let’s Respect Retail campaign this year, encouraging customers to treat retail workers with greater respect. The new trustees will collaborate with existing board members representing firms such as Holland & Barrett and Amazon.
Hulme stated the trust’s importance in offering industry-wide advice and expressed enthusiasm for advancing its programs. King noted the charity’s twofold mission: providing professional support to frontline workers while also ensuring affordable retirement living in picturesque areas. Peacey emphasized the value of the retail workforce and the trust’s role in improving working conditions and public perception of the sector, calling his appointment an opportunity to drive meaningful change for employees.
Chris Brook-Carter, the trust’s chief executive, said the new trustees bring expertise from retail and property sectors. Their participation will help address growing concerns about worker well-being amid government priorities in high street revitalization and tackling retail crime.
