Mr Hodgson brings three decades of experience in the foodservice sector, together with an extensive knowledge of refrigeration, having been with Adande for 13 years.

Adande Group executive chairman, Nigel Bell said: “As the Adande Group of companies continues to grow, it is important we continue to strengthen the leadership team in key company areas. Karl brings deep experience and proven commercial and management skills together with an unwavering commitment to the Adande Refrigeration business. He has served as a director with the company for several years. It is vital that we continue the explosive growth out of the Covid period and achieve our company goals over the next 24-48 months. The board believe that Karl is the right person to lead the business, known for its unique sustainable drawers, in delivering that. Karl will replace current managing director Ian Wood allowing Ian to focus his knowledge and expertise on engineering and development across the Adande Group of companies, including Adande Aircell, where the growth of Aircell technology for powering open display retail cabinets is accelerating.”

Mr Hodgson said: “I am very excited to take on this new challenge. and feel that Adande as a business is perfectly positioned to assist hospitality during 2023 in what is anticipated to be a tough year economically. We have a dynamic UK sales team now reporting into newly appointed UK sales manager, Jackie Venn and a strong and committed dealer network in the UK. Over 40% of sales in 2022 were in overseas market and these sales continue to grow. I am very much looking forward to this next chapter. I’d like to thank the board and the whole Adande team for their support.”