New boss for Orchard

The acquisition of Orchard, the insolvent Californian hardware chain, by Lowe’s, America’s second-biggest DIY and home improvement company, has received the blessing of the relevant insolvency court. At the same time it was announced that Mark Baker, the previous boss of Orchard and a former Scotts and Home Depot man, is leaving the company that he joined in March 2011. His position as president and CEO is going to Richard D. Maltsbarger, a Lowe’s manager who was a driving force behind the acquisition. Lowe’s stressed once again that Orchard is to continue to operate as an independent division and will retain its brand and headquarters.