WRKS Theworks.co.uk Plc

1 November 2024

TheWorks.co.uk plc

("The Works", the "Company" or the "Group")

Directorate change

Simon Hathway appointed Independent Non-Executive Director.

TheWorks.co.uk plc, the family-friendly value retailer of arts, crafts, toys, books and stationery, announces the appointment of Simon Hathway as Independent Non-Executive Director, effective 1 November 2024. This follows the announcement on 1 August 2024 that after six years on the Board, Catherine Glickman would not seek re-election at the Annual General Meeting, which took place on 31 October 2024.

In addition to joining the Board, Simon has been appointed Chair of the Remuneration Committee and member of the Audit and Nomination Committees.

With over 27 years' experience in international retail across the UK, Europe and Asia, and having spent the last 17 years within the discount sector, Simon is a highly experienced value retail executive and advisor. He has held senior positions at prominent value retailers, most recently between 2013 and 2018 as Buying Director and Commercial Director with Action Holding BV, one of Europe's fastest growing non-food discount retailers, and, prior to that, Wilko, where he held several key Operating Board positions. Since 2018, Simon has worked as a self-employed Retail Advisor, Consultant and Non-Executive Director, specialising in the value retail sector.

Simon is currently a retained Senior Advisor to JJA, Europe's leading supplier of homeware products, and Non-Executive Chair of Rove, a SaaS start-up helping consumer brands to expand internationally. Through his retail advisory and consultancy business, Simon advises a range of European discount businesses and Private Equity clients on areas including strategy, positioning and international expansion.

Steve Bellamy, Chair of The Works, said: "Simon's extensive value retail experience will prove invaluable at a pivotal moment for the business as we look to capitalise on growth opportunities, refine our strategic priorities and deliver increased shareholder value. On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Simon to The Works and look forward to drawing on his experience as we embark on this next chapter."

Simon Hathway said: "The Works is a fantastic retailer, with a strong value proposition, loyal customer base and plenty of untapped potential. I look forward to working with the Board and management team to help the business realise its full potential in the years ahead."

Additional information in respect of the AIM Rules

The following information regarding the appointment of Simon Anthony Hathway (aged 49) is disclosed pursuant to Schedule Two paragraph (g) of the AIM Rules for Companies ("AIM Rules"):

As at the date of this announcement, Simon Hathway holds no ordinary shares in the Company.

Save as set out above, there is no further information to be disclosed in respect of Simon Hathway under Schedule 2(g) of the AIM Rules for Companies.