Habitat hires Kevin Styles as group chief executive

Prior to Best Buy Styles was managing director of Kingfisher-owned Trade Depot, which has now been abandoned. He also held senior director roles at Thresher and Thomas Cook.

Styles said he wants to restore Habitat’s “rightful place at the heart of the modern home” and turn it into a “global business”.

 “Habitat is a fantastic brand and the company has held an important position in the retailing world for over 40 years,” said Styles. “It’s true to say that in recent times the business has faced increasing competitive pressure, particularly in the UK, and has lost some of its edge.

“It is now time to focus Habitat on regaining its rightful place at the heart of the modern home. There is huge potential to turn Habitat into a global business and I am delighted to be joining the company at this important stage in its history.

I am looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

Habitat executive chairman Phil Wrigley said: “I am delighted that Kevin is joining Habitat. He brings a wealth of retailing, marketing and operational experience which will be of huge benefit to the ongoing turnaround programme for the business.”