Tim Hall and Kate Skerritt, the founders of London-based healthy food-on-the-go concept POD, are to step aside from the day-to-day running of the 22-strong business to pursue a new venture, M&C has learnt.
Hall is to step into a non-executive board and advisory role at the company. Skerritt, who founded the business with Hall in 2005, and Emma Blackmore of Chocolate and Chilli Ltd, who has led the development of the brand’s menu since 2007, are to leave the company completely.
Tim Bartam, the group’s current finance director, is to oversee the day-to-day running of POD, while its backers and current operational team decide on a future leadership structure for the brand.
It is understood that the trio hope to announce details later this year of their next move.
Hall told M&C: “I am extremely proud of the disruptive and successful challenger brand that the three of us have created together and we leave the management team with a business in great shape following double digit like for like growth for 2014 and H1 2015.
“10 years is a long time in any business and we now can’t resist the opportunity to challenge ourselves elsewhere in this booming and exciting market. As founder and board member I aim to ensure that POD continues to thrive and wish the team the very best of luck as they move the business forwards.”
Skerritt said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at pod but the time is now right to me to move on and pursue some exciting opportunities elsewhere, I wish the team the best of luck for the future.”
Last week, POD announced it was returning to the expansion trail following a period of consolidation.
It is looking to add 10 sites a year in new areas of London with plans to secure its first before the end of 2015.
Last year it announced a deal with Starbucks to sell selected items from its breakfast and lunch ranges at three Starbucks stores in central London under a trial period.
