Aaron Wright is Managing Director of CADS, a UK-based retail services and measured surveying business operating across the UK and Europe. CADS provides retail space planning, retail architecture and design, and measured building surveys.
Retail property leadership
With more than 20 years’ experience in the retail property sector, Aaron shapes the company’s strategic direction and drives sustainable growth. He ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality services to retailers, architects, contractors and the public sector.
Holding ACMA and MBA qualifications, Aaron combines commercial leadership with extensive retail property expertise. His experience spans retail operations, property and business strategy. Aaron’s focus is on helping clients survey, understand, design and optimise commercial space through accurate data, innovative technology and integrated service delivery.
Aaron is passionate about building high-performing teams and creating a culture where people are empowered to develop, collaborate and deliver exceptional results. He believes successful businesses are built on talented people, strong relationships and a commitment to continuous improvement. This approach has helped position CADS as a trusted strategic partner for retailers and an employer of choice.
Retail space planning and measured survey expertise
Since its founding in 1984, CADS has established a reputation for integrity, innovation and collaboration. Under Aaron’s leadership, CADS works with major national and international retailers. The business provides retail space planning, architecture, measured surveys and BIM-ready CAD solutions. These services improve estate performance, support refurbishment programmes and optimise the use of retail space.
Aaron leads a business trusted by retail organisations including Asda, M&S, Primark, Sainsbury’s and Sports Direct to deliver commercially successful environments through accurate survey data and data-led retail planning.
Government housing survey programmes
As Managing Director, Aaron has strategic oversight of CADS Housing and its delivery of major government housing survey programmes. These include the English Housing Survey (EHS) and Scottish Household Survey (SHS), which provide the evidence used to inform housing policy, investment decisions and national housing statistics. Aaron works closely with commissioning clients and consortium partners to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery across these complex, multi-partner programmes.
Business leadership and retail innovation
Alongside his role at CADS, Aaron serves on the operating boards of Forma Innovations, Prosper Design, StoreSpace, Sofco and Retail Manager Solutions. He supports the long-term development of a group of businesses focused on innovation, technology and integrated retail services.
Published insights
Aaron shares insights on retail estate strategy, shopper behaviour and changing consumer trends. His articles also cover business growth, apprenticeships, workplace culture and the initiatives shaping the future of CADS.
Outside of work, Aaron supports Norwich City Football Club and regularly attends home games at Carrow Road.
