Former McDonald’s South Africa chief executive Greg Solomon has taken over as CEO of Pantry by Marble, the luxury food retailer founded by celebrity chef David Higgs and businessman Gary Kyriacou.
The appointment comes as Pantry prepares to grow beyond Gauteng, where it has established itself as a premium convenience retailer combining everyday groceries with restaurant-quality food.
Solomon brings extensive experience in South Africa’s food and hospitality industry, having spent 15 years leading McDonald’s local operations. During his tenure, the fast-food chain expanded to more than 400 restaurants and a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees.
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According to a BusinessTech report, his appointment forms part of Pantry’s plans to strengthen its operations before pursuing further expansion.
From fast food to luxury retail
Pantry was established during the Covid-19 pandemic by Higgs and Kyriacou, introducing a retail concept that combines the convenience of a neighbourhood grocery store with the quality and presentation associated with an upmarket restaurant.
Its offering includes fresh produce, premium meat, baked goods, coffee, pantry essentials and freshly prepared meals.
The business currently operates permanent stores in Rosebank, Bassonia and Hazelwood, alongside a pop-up location at The Marc in Sandton.
Its Gauteng footprint is expected to grow further, with a Fourways outlet scheduled to open in October and a 1,300-square-metre standalone store planned next to the Mall of Africa in 2027.
However, the retailer’s ambitions extend beyond the province.
Solomon believes Pantry’s established flagship stores have created an opportunity to introduce the concept to new markets, although he has cautioned against expanding too quickly.
“The hardest part will be saying no,” Solomon said, referring to growing interest in the brand and the importance of selecting suitable locations, products and employees.
Expansion without compromising quality
Rather than prioritising rapid store openings, Solomon’s immediate focus will be on strengthening the systems needed to support a larger retail network.
This includes developing employee training programmes, improving supply chain operations and standardising production processes across Pantry’s central kitchen.
These measures are intended to ensure that customers receive a consistent experience as the retailer introduces new outlets.
Solomon’s appointment also brings experience in managing a large national food business to a relatively young retail brand seeking to establish itself beyond its original market.
While Pantry has confirmed its intention to expand outside Gauteng, it has not yet identified the provinces being considered or provided a timeline for its first store elsewhere in South Africa.
For now, the company’s immediate expansion plans remain concentrated in Gauteng, with its upcoming Fourways and Mall of Africa developments.
