Shop floor to Poundstretcher chief

Mr Kirk started his retail career 40 years ago on the shop floor at Woolworths.

From 1978 to 1996, Mr Kirk was managing director of Iceland, at a time when the company grew from 100 to more than 400 stores.

In 1996, he joined Peacocks as chief executive, and helped to develop the group into a national chain.

Mr Kirk said yesterday: “I am delighted to be joining Pounstretcher.

“The business is ambitious and extremely well-placed with 400 stores across the country, to take advantage of current economic conditions and consumers’ increasing desire for quality products at great prices.”

Aziz Tayub, the company’s chairman, said: “I am delighted to welcome Richard to the business as we embark on the next stage of our development.”