IDS’ managing director John Bagshaw retires

Mr Bagshaw was instrumental in establishing IDS in 1999 and he has built it into the UK’s leading specialist distributor of decorative surfaces, generating well over £100m in annual revenues and employing more than 500 people across 16 sites in the UK.

Having led IDS through the Covid pandemic and its recent buy-out by Chiltern Capital, Mr Bagshaw will now hand over the reins to Andy Sutton, IDS’s long-standing commercial director, who moves into the role of CEO. Mr Sutton will be well known to many of IDS’s customers, suppliers and employees, having worked closely with Mr Bagshaw over the past 21 years.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the last 22 years, during which we have successfully managed through some challenging times and wish you all good luck for the future,” said Mr Bagshaw.

“On behalf of all the employees at IDS, past and present, I would like to thank John for his commitment and hard work, and we wish him all the best in his retirement,” said Mr Sutton. “It is a privilege to be taking on the role of CEO and I am committed to building on the many successes to date and look forward to taking IDS through the next stage of its journey. We have a talented team, enduring and innovative suppliers and valued customers, and I am delighted and humbled to have been chosen to lead the business into the future.”

“John has played a fundamental role in building IDS and guiding it through unprecedented times,” added Tony Buffin, chairman. “We are, however, extremely pleased with the deserved appointment of Andy as CEO. He has built strong relationships with both customers and suppliers over many years and has ambitious plans for the business. We look forward to giving him our full support.”