Woolworth's set to opt for outsider

WOOLWORTHS finance director Chris Rogers looks likely to miss out on the chief executive's vacant position.

At one time he was hotly tipped for the job, but chairman Gerald Corbett is believed to have brought in a retailer from outside the pick 'n' mix group.

An announcement is expected shortly, possibly to coincide with a trading statement on Thursday.

Woolworths is also due to update the City on progress made in reducing a £100 million stock overhang after the demerger from Kingfisher in August.