Thorntons appoints John von Spreckelsen as chairman

The British chocolate producer and retailer Thorntons plc has appointed the turnround specialist John von Spreckelsen as chairman. Von Spreckelsen was previously CEO of Budgens plc for nine years, before moving to Somerfield plc in 2000 as executive chairman. He has a reptutation for selling companies he is in charge of, and his appointment drove the company s share price up yesterday on speculation Thorntons would be put on the block, though it was an assertion denied by von Spreckelsen. The German-born manager said: “Thorntons has an excellent product range and brand. I am looking forward to making a contribution to this company which has such a great tradition and heritage.”