Waitrose poaches Asda buyer

Waitrose has snapped up Asda buyer Katie Mollet as the latest member of its wine department.

Joining the Waitrose team today, Mollet will initially take responsibility for Italy, bag in box, small bottle and low alcohol wines.

Mollet spent five years at Asda, starting as spirits trading assistant before progressing to become wine selector for Italy, Spain, Portugal, South Africa, Germany, US, small bottles and bag in box.

Upon joining the Waitrose team, which has scooped the International Wine and Spirit Competition buying team of the year award for the last eight years in a row, Mollet said: “The quality and diversity of the Waitrose wine range is industry-leading and I look forward to making my own mark on the range in the future.”

Commenting on the appointment, Andrew Shaw, wine buying manager for Waitrose, said: “Katie impressed us with her clear passion for the industry, excellent own-label experience and insightful awareness of consumer habits.

“We look forward to welcoming her to our team at Waitrose and developing her career further.”