This would indeed be desirable. For example, I believe Kesko’s internationalization model has proven to be operationally effective: acquired businesses operate under country-specific strategies, and local management is granted a great deal of autonomy. High-level decisions are then made by the Finnish management team (e.g., shutting down K-rauta in Sweden). In Tokmanni’s case, the framework seems to be set by the ongoing integration of product ranges and operating methods. The new management team now has a good opportunity to start with a clean slate regarding Dollarstore and to consider the strengths and weaknesses of the “old” and “new” concepts. For instance, to what extent will the product range be localized, and where will the group seek purchasing synergies in the future?
In principle, these appointments seem positive from the perspective of an internationalizing group and, in part, signal to the market that local expertise is needed to solve Dollarstore’s problems. The appointment of a Chief Strategy Officer was logical, as the previous one was “moved” to the position of Head of Sourcing and Purchasing at the beginning of the year, and no new person was hired to replace them. Sörenhagen’s background at Tiger as the new CEO of Dollarstore would point towards a modestly sized product range, i.e., a return to the old ways for Dollarstore.
According to the press release, Dollarstore’s current CEO, Heimo, is returning to Finland, but it was not specified in what capacity he will continue (if at all). Someone with experience from Verkkokauppa.com was hired to replace Heimo, who previously served as the group’s Supply Chain Director, so it is unlikely he will return to that role.