Ultimate Products has announced a major leadership transition, appointing Simon Harrison as its new Chief Executive Officer as the homewares group prepares for its next phase of growth.
Mr Harrison, currently CEO of Princes Group PLC, will join Ultimate Products as CEO designate on September 5 2026 before formally taking over on 26 October 2026. He succeeds Andrew Gossage, who is stepping down after more than 20 years in executive leadership roles with the business.
Simon Harrison
Ultimate Products, owner of heritage housewares brands including Salter and Beldray, described Mr Harrison as a seasoned FMCG executive with more than 25 years’ experience spanning sales, operations, brand and trade marketing. Prior to leading Princes Group, Mr Harrison spent almost two decades at Coca-Cola European Partners in a series of senior commercial and marketing roles.
The transition also marks a further evolution in the group’s governance structure. Founder Simon Showman, who established the business in 1997 and led it as CEO until 2024, moved into a non-executive role from June 1 2026 while continuing as President and Founder.
Chair Christine Adshead said Mr Harrison brings “outstanding leadership qualities, strong operating discipline and considerable commercial experience” and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the company into its “next chapter”.
Adshead also paid tribute to outgoing CEO Andrew Gossage, crediting him with helping transform Ultimate Products from a sourcing business into a branded homewares group, while overseeing significant online growth, automation investment and the company’s graduate development programme.
Incoming CEO Simon Harrison said the business has “significant potential” built on “some of the best-known brands in UK homeware”, adding that he looks forward to working with the board and wider team to drive future growth.
Mr Gossage described the transition as the “right time” to step back from day-to-day leadership, noting that the company now has “strong foundations” and the right succession planning in place to support its long-term future.
The board said the revised structure, comprising two executive directors and six non-executive directors — is intended to ensure the business maintains an appropriate balance of operational, financial and sector expertise as it continues to expand internationally and strengthen its portfolio of consumer brands.
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