First Stop names Mark Widdows as retail manager

First Stop has recruited Mark Widdows to the senior position of UK retail network manager after working with Goodyear Dunlop for 20 years, where he latterly served as national franchise manager for the HiQ network. The recruitment is seen as a statement of intent, as First Stop aims to grow its network and position itself as a major player in the fast-fit sector.

Commenting on the news Mark Widdows said: “This is a great opportunity and one that I am excited to take. The main priority for me is to grow and develop the First Stop network and create a bigger channel for Bridgestone and its portfolio of premium products. We want to attract quality partners to the network who share our enthusiasm and passion and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Widdows has 36 years’ experience in the automotive industry and has held a broad range of positions during that time, including tyre fitter, mechanic, store manager, franchise manager, acting retail director and most recently, national franchise manager.

Widdows added: “To be able to work closely with the world’s largest tyre manufacturer had a huge appeal, with Bridgestone’s range of premium consumer tyres amongst the very best in the industry.”

First Stop’s Partner Manager Audrey Leonard said: “We are thrilled to welcome Mark to the team. He brings vast experience to the role and has already outlined an exciting vision for the First Stop network. He has recorded a number of impressive achievements in the fast-fit industry in recent times and his skills are perfectly suited to the role, and where we want to get to as a network overall.”