Fressnapf | Maxi Zoo is taking a strategic step in the continued development of its Product Offer division while strengthening the Group’s operational leadership structure. Mikko Forsström will assume the role of Chief Product Officer (CPO) effective May 1.
With Forsström’s appointment, Fressnapf | Maxi Zoo gains an internationally experienced retail executive with more than 20 years of experience in the food and mass market retail sector. He has held senior positions at major international companies including Lidl and EMD AG, and most recently served as Chief Commercial Officer at Majid Al Futtaim Retail.
“We are delighted to welcome Mikko Forsström, an internationally experienced and strategically strong CPO. With his expertise and clear focus on customer value and assortment excellence, he will significantly shape the further development of our department Product Offer,” said Matt Simister, Group CEO.
A people- and results-focused leader, Forsström brings together clear strategic thinking, strong operational execution and broad intercultural leadership experience. In his new role, he will oversee key development areas such as Category Development, further strengthening Fressnapf | Maxi Zoo’s offering for customers and their pets.
Fressnapf | Maxi Zoo is a leading European retailer for pet supplies. The company was founded in 1990 when Torsten Toeller opened the first “Fressnapf” specialist store in Erkelenz, Germany. Headquartered in Krefeld, the group operates additional offices across several European countries. Today, the company includes around 2,800 Fressnapf, Maxi Zoo and Arcaplanet stores and employs more than 20,000 people (including franchise partners) from over 50 nations. In Germany, most stores are run by independent franchise partners, while in other European markets they are primarily company-owned.
