Meakin joins the company from Pret A Manger where he has served in a number of senior roles over the past seven years, most recently as shops and franchise director.
Prior to his time with Pret, Meakin has held a number of senior sales roles across retailers Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s, as well as desserts manufacturer Gu Puds.
Extensive experience
Commenting on Meakin’s appointment, Krispy Kreme president international Matt Spanjers said: “[Meakin] has extensive experience in the QSR industry … he also has strong relationships with many of our customers and partners.
“We recently launched a new doughnut line-up of fan favourites, best-sellers and some new trending flavours and we look forward to having him lead our amazing brand through its next phase of profitable, nationwide expansion.”
Meakin’s appointment follows the departure of Jamie Dunning, who has decided to leave the business after two and a half years.
In his time with the business, Dunning has overseen a period of double-digit revenue growth through the continued expansion of Krispy Kreme points of access and digital e-commerce development, including the flagship store on Oxford Street earlier this year.
‘Time for a new leader’
Dunning said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading this great brand to continued revenue growth through an unprecedented period of change. I believe it is time for a new leader to take the business through the next phase of its journey and wish Guy all the best.”
The former managing director and president of Mars Retail Group, Dunning took over the reins of Krispy Kreme from Richard Chesire in 2022, who stood down from the role after 20 years of working in leadership roles at the company.
Meanwhile, brewer Timothy Taylor’s has announced the appointment of Andrew Carter as chief executive to replace current boss Tim Dewey. Carter will continue in his current role as winemaker Chapel Down’s CEO through its ongoing strategic review.