Pick n Pay has named retail executive Spencer Sonn as its next CEO-designate, with Sonn set to join the retailer in February 2027 and work alongside current CEO Sean Summers during the leadership transition.
Spencer Sonn appointed Pick n Pay CEO designate. (Image supplied)
The appointment forms part of the company’s succession planning and comes as Pick n Pay continues its turnaround under Summers.
From Woolworths Food to Pick n Pay
Sonn joins Pick n Pay following a 26-year career at Woolworths South Africa, including five years as managing director of its Food Division.
His background spans grocery and fresh food retail, with experience across both operational and executive leadership roles. Pick n Pay says his retail experience will add further grocery expertise to its leadership team as the business continues its turnaround.
Sonn also brings international experience from New Zealand, where he worked across challenging retail conditions in a market that included both franchise and corporate stores and a workforce of around 22,000 employees.
A planned leadership transition
The appointment gives Sonn time to settle into his new role and work closely with Summers before Summers’ contract expires in May 2028.
For Pick n Pay, the extended transition period is intended to support continuity as the retailer works through its turnaround and prepares for its next phase of leadership.
Summers says Sonn’s experience made him a strong fit for the role.
“Throughout our engagements, Spencer has expressed enormous admiration for the values and founding principles that Pick n Pay was built on,” says Summers.
He adds that Sonn has demonstrated his leadership capabilities throughout his career and was involved in driving food retail growth in previous roles.
Sonn looks to the road ahead
For Sonn, the move represents a new chapter after more than two decades in grocery retail.
“This is an exciting challenge for me after working across every part of grocery retailing,” says Sonn. “I am looking forward to working closely with Sean.”
He describes Pick n Pay as a strong and much-loved brand with potential, adding that he is looking forward to contributing to the company’s turnaround and working with its employees.
What’s next for Pick n Pay
Sonn will officially join Pick n Pay on 1 February 2027 as CEO-designate, beginning a transition period with Summers ahead of the planned leadership change.
His appointment brings experience across grocery, fresh food, franchise and corporate retail into a business currently focused on its turnaround and longer-term growth.
