The HFMA presented Barry Vickers with its top accolade – the Maurice Hanssen Award of Honour – at last week’s Natural & Organic Products Europe.
After 28 years making his way through the ranks at Curry’s, Barry Vicker’s introduction to the natural health industry came in 1988, when he moved to Booker Health Food as a Sales Director for an up and coming brand: Holland & Barrett. In 1991 he became managing director and 2003 chief executive officer. After more than 50 years in the world of retail, he handed the reins over to Peter Aldis and took a step back in 2008, moving to an advisor role to support Peter in the transition. He remains a member of the NBTY Europe Corporate Board.
The HFMA notes that throughout his time with Holland & Barrett, Vickers has vigorously supported the industry from behind the scenes, providing substantial funding for the many industry campaigns over the years. 2013 will see the passionate retailer’s final year in the industry, as he steps back to spend some time with his family.
HFMA chairman Martin Last commented: “It was a great honour to be able to present Barry Vickers with the Maurice Hanssen Award of Honour, which recognises commitment and dedication to our industry. Barry is a well deserved recipient of this award and he joins a list of great names that have received this award over the years.”
Barry Vickers commented: “I really do appreciate the HFMA’s Award of Honour, particularly as it carries the name of Maurice Hanssen. I have had the pleasure of working with some of the hardest workers, and brightest minds within our great industry, and have them to thank for a long, varied, and rewarding career.”
