Liverpool’s Matalan hires new CEO from H&M

Henrik Nordvall

Liverpool-based bargain retailer Matalan announced the appointment of Henrik Nordvall as its new CEO.

Nordvall will join Matalan in February 2026 and brings a wealth of apparel retail experience, having spent the last 17 years with clothing retailer H&M.

“Throughout his time at H&M, Henrik has worked in several roles, across numerous countries,” said Matalan.

“Most recently, Henrik was the Managing Director UK and Ireland, the third largest market of H&M, overseeing revenues of $1.5bn.

“Karl-Heinz Holland, who was appointed Executive Chair in October 2024, will return to his position as Chair of the Board in February 2026.

“Henrik’s appointment follows a strong first-half performance from Matalan, with pre-IFRS16 EBITDA up 69% to £34m in the six months to 30 August 2025.

“This was driven by margin expansion alongside a tight focus on costs, as the business continues to deliver on its strategic initiatives including its store refresh programme, with upgraded stores outperforming the rest of the estate by 14%.

“Matalan continues to make good progress on strengthening its proposition in delivering everyday Style, Quality and Value for customers, and in recent weeks has seen several new appointments to its Leadership team.”

Nordvall said: “I am thrilled to join Matalan as the new CEO from February 2026.

“Matalan is on a very exciting journey on delivering everyday style, quality and value to their customers and I am excited to start contributing to the business.

“Together with the executive team, the board and the whole Matalan team, I look forward to taking the company into the future.”

Holland said: “I am absolutely delighted that Henrik is joining Matalan at this exciting stage of our transformation. In Henrik, we have an individual with significant UK, apparel retail experience, coupled with proven CEO leadership experience to continue Matalan’s strategic delivery.

“I have no doubt that he will add huge value across all areas of the business, complementing the experienced Executive and leadership team. I would like to take this time to thank the Executive team for their valuable contribution and commitment over the last 12 months whilst we have been concluding our search.”