Topping has over sixteen years of experience in the travel and domestic retail trade in Asia and has also worked for travel retail companies in Europe and the USA.

Steffen Brandt, CEO of Heinemann Asia said: “Given his experience, energy and knowledge of the region, he will assist us on developing our strategy and footprint in Asia.”

Topping said: “Having admired Heinemann and their business approach for over twenty years and now seeing their appetite for Asia I am very honoured to be in the team.”