Welcome, Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg

This week we welcomed Gregers Wedell-Wedellsborg as President of Shoppers Drug Mart^®. With deep experience in health and beauty retail, digital innovation, and franchise businesses, Gregers will be spending the coming weeks visiting stores and meeting teams across the country. We asked him to share a little about himself as he begins his journey with Shoppers.

What were your first impressions when you visited a Shoppers Drug Mart store?

My first visit took about an hour because our sixteen-year-old daughter quickly disappeared into the aisles and later told me Shoppers has everything that matters under one roof. That’s a strong review from a tough Gen Z customer.

What stood out most were the friendly, helpful, and competent teams in the beauty boutique, at the pharmacy counter, and at checkout. That tells me Shoppers has a culture that’s hard to beat.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Work is my idea of fun, but I also enjoy skiing, reading stacks of books, and playing 90s riffs on my Gibson guitar.

What led you to Shoppers Drug Mart?

My career has come in three chapters. In my twenties, I served as an officer in the Danish army and studied international relations. In my thirties, I worked in media and entertainment during a period of rapid digital transformation. In my forties, I found my way to grocery retail and the world of health and beauty.

Most recently, as CEO of Matas Group, I led the transformation of a traditional beauty and wellness retailer into a digital market leader, expanding into online pharmacy, growing membership, strengthening owned brands, and expanding from one country into four.

What’s the most valuable leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership is about what you do for other people. It should never be about you.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I think in terms of Results, Relations & You. We must deliver impact and move with speed, but never at the expense of trust and long-term relationships. I try to meet every person with respect and openness, so they can do their best work and continue to grow.

Who has been a key mentor for you?

My wife, a psychologist and executive advisor. I’m the test subject for every new theory and grateful for plenty of “helpful feedback.”

What excites you most about this role?

Connecting with colleagues and Associate-Owners, visiting stores across Canada, and building an even stronger business that serves an important role in Canadian society.

What’s the biggest opportunity for Shoppers in the coming years?

With our national network and trusted teams, Shoppers can play a major role in the reinvention of healthcare in Canada, while leading the next wave of digital innovation in a way that strengthens our stores.

Any final message for employees and colleagues?

Our future is very much in our own hands. It’s a privilege, and a responsibility, to renew ourselves at pace while serving customers with excellence every day.