SDEA Appoints First Female President in 79-Year History
The Shop & Display Equipment Association has marked a milestone in its 79-year history, electing Claire White as president and appointing James North as vice president at its annual general meeting.
Claire White has been elected president of the Shop & Display Equipment Association, becoming the first woman to hold the role in the association’s 79-year history.
The appointment was confirmed at the Shop & Display Equipment Association’s 79th Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 27 May 2026. White, of Antalis, was elected president after serving as vice president over the past year and previously as a council member.
Claire White of Antalis and James North of Northbanks Design.
She succeeds Mark Chatterton of Morplan, who steps down after a four-year term as president. James North of Northbanks Design has been elected vice president.
“It is a real honour to take on the role of President, and I am proud to be the first woman to do so in the Association’s history. The SDEA continues to offer valuable and relevant support to the many different sectors it represents within the design and display industry, and it provides members with opportunities to network and celebrate their creativity. I look forward to building on this work and helping the Association grow in the year ahead.”
Claire White, President, SDEA
The association also thanked Chatterton for his leadership and the support he gave members during his term.
“It is a real privilege to be elected Vice President of the SDEA. Our industry has a unique ability to bring brands to life and create meaningful connections with customers through retail, display, and experiential environments. I look forward to working alongside the board, members, and industry partners to champion innovation, support emerging talent, and help strengthen our industry for the future.”
James North, Vice President, SDEA
SDEA Creative Retail Connections Rooftop Networking Event in London
Two new members were also elected to the Executive Council this year: Vanessa Keen of Design 4 Retail and Oliver Dunn of Glencourt Associates.
“This is a proud moment for the Association. Claire becoming our first female President is a real milestone, and a welcome one. I’d also like to thank Mark for everything he’s given over his time as President; his support has meant a lot to members. With Claire and James now at the helm, I’m genuinely excited about the year ahead.”
Antony Behiels, Director, SDEA
Founded in 1947, the SDEA has remained closely connected to the UK retail display and shopfitting sectors as they have evolved, bringing together suppliers and service providers across store design, display equipment, visual merchandising and related disciplines. Alongside its membership activity, the association is also behind initiatives including the Creative Retail Awards and Creative Retail Connections events, which provide further platforms for industry recognition, discussion and networking throughout the year.
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