Boots Chooses Alex Baldock as New CEO to Steer Possible London IPO
Boots' Leadership Transition and IPO Plans
May 13 (Reuters) - British pharmacy chain Boots has chosen outgoing Currys chief executive Alex Baldock to lead the business as it prepares for a potential London stock market listing, Sky News reported on Wednesday.
Alex Baldock's Appointment
Baldock, who oversaw a turnaround at the electrical goods retailer during an eight-year tenure, is expected to take the helm at Boots later in 2026, with an announcement likely in the spring, Sky News said, citing retail industry sources.
Background on Alex Baldock and Currys
Here are some details:
Baldock's Departure and Predecessors
• Currys announced Baldock's departure in March. Sebastian James, the previous CEO of Dixons Carphone, now known as Currys, also departed to run Boots in 2018.
Ownership Changes and Private Equity Involvement
• Private equity firm Sycamore Partners took Boots' parent Walgreens Boots Alliance private last year in a deal valued at about $10 billion, after which Boots became a standalone entity.
IPO Strategy and Future Plans
• In April, Reuters reported that Boots' owners are working with consultants on a strategy overhaul ahead of a potential London IPO as soon as 2027, citing people familiar with the matter.
Boots' Business Operations
• Boots operates more than 1,800 stores across Britain, offering pharmacy services, health products and beauty brands including Soap & Glory. It is also a major provider of National Health Service-funded pharmacy services.
Company Response
• Boots did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.
(Reporting by Nithyashree R B in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid)
