Martin Williams Named CEO of D&D London Amid Rebranding Efforts

Martin Williams, former head of Rare Restaurants, has been appointed CEO of D&D London, succeeding David Loewi. Williams will oversee 20 restaurants across London, Birmingham, Manchester, New York, and Paris under the rebranded Evolv Collection. The transition follows the sale of D&D London to Calveton and Breal Capital for £60m in 2023. Williams will lead the company through organic and acquisitive growth after a record 2024 festive trading period.

Martin Williams, a seasoned hospitality executive with a proven track record of success, has been appointed as the new CEO of D&D London, effective immediately [1]. Williams, who previously served as the CEO of Rare Restaurants, will oversee the management of 20 restaurants across London, Birmingham, Manchester, New York, and Paris under the newly rebranded Evolv Collection.

Williams' appointment follows the sale of D&D London to Calveton and Breal Capital for £60m in 2023 [1]. With a strong emphasis on growth, Williams aims to lead the company through both organic and acquisitive expansion after a record 2024 festive trading period [1].

During his tenure at Rare Restaurants, Williams played a pivotal role in the growth of the company. He oversaw the opening of five new Gaucho steakhouses and reported strong financial results, with like-for-like sales rising 23% and revenue reaching £75m in 2023 [1].

Prior to his role at Rare Restaurants, Williams served as the managing director of Gaucho from 2005 to 2014 and returned to the company in 2018 after it was bought out of administration by Investec and SC Lowry [1]. In 2019, Gaucho's holding company acquired M Restaurants, and Williams was appointed as CEO to lead the combined brands under Rare Restaurants.

Williams' expertise in the hospitality industry is highly regarded, and his appointment to D&D London is expected to bring significant benefits to the company. With a focus on growth and a proven track record of success, Williams is poised to lead Evolv Collection through an exciting period of expansion and development.

References:
[1] The Caterer. Martin Williams steps down as CEO of Rare Restaurants. https://www.thecaterer.com/news/martin-williams-steps-down-as-ceo-of-rare-restaurants