FRLT Appoint New Chief Executive

28 November 2008

The Federation of the Retail Licensed Trade (FRLT) has appointed Colin Neill as its new Chief Executive. The former Ballymena Town Centre Manager has taken up the position representing over 1100 pubs, hotels, restaurants and off licences across Northern Ireland

Announcing the appointment, Stephen Reynolds, FRLT Chairman said: �Colin has a highly impressive background with over 20 years of managerial experience in the retail and tourism sectors, I have no doubt that having a thorough understanding of the issues facing the industry, and an excellent track record that Colin will prove to be a tremendous asset to the Federation and a first class advocate for the industry. Having worked in both the retail and tourism sectors, including the Belfast City Centre Management Company, Colin has played a leading part in the engagement of the Association of Town Centre Management with the NI Assembly and Government Departments. I am confident that Colin will provide efficient and effective management of the Federation over the coming years� said Mr Reynolds Commenting on his new appointment Colin Neill said: �I am honoured to have been entrusted with this position by the Federation and its membership. With an annual turnover of �1bn, employing over 34,000 people the future growth of this industry is essential for the growth of Northern Ireland. The last few years have seen major developments in the industry such as the introduction of the smoking ban which has had a dramatic impact on the trade. We also have been facing issues such as the ongoing discussions surrounding the review of liquor licensing, the growth in underage drinking and supermarkets selling some alcohol products as loss leaders encouraging greater levels of drinking at home. It is my determination to address these issues and ensure that the Federation continues to lead the way in promoting the social responsibility.� Colin Neill joined FRLT as Chief Executive on 18th August 2008. Colin has a highly impressive background with over 20 years of managerial experience in the retail and tourism sectors. He has a thorough understanding of the issues facing the industry and an excellent track record. Colin is a tremendous asset to the Federation and a first class advocate for the industry. Having worked in both these fields, including the Belfast City Centre Management Company, Colin has played a leading part in the engagement of the Association of Town Centre Management with the NI Assembly and Government Departments.