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In this edition of ‘A quick chat with’, Sascha Blodau explains how his family keeps him grounded, why every setback is a learning experience, the importance of staying curious in business and the inspiration provided by the Gauselmann family.

What was your first job and what was the wage?

After studying as an industrial engineer, I started with a 27-month management trainee program at tobacco giant Philip Morris. I think it was around €35k p.a. — a strong start that gave me great exposure to how large global businesses operate.

What was your greatest accomplishment and what are you most proud of?
Professionally, helping to build Merkur UK into a trusted, people-focused organisation that supports colleagues, customers, and communities. Being part of a team that has reshaped the culture and strengthened the reputation of the business has been very meaningful. Personally, mentoring colleagues and seeing them grow into leadership roles has been incredibly rewarding — knowing that I’ve played a part in their development and success is something I’m genuinely proud of.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
The Gauselmann family. They showed me how a business can remain family-oriented while also being a global player. Their leadership style and commitment to people have had a lasting influence on how I think about building strong, values-driven organisations.

What are you looking forward to most from January’s EAG?
Meeting colleagues across the industry face-to-face. EAG is about new ideas, new products, and good conversations — a chance to remember that, while we compete, we all share the goal of keeping the sector relevant and sustainable. I also enjoy hearing different perspectives at events like this, because they often spark collaborations and ideas that stay with you long after the exhibition ends.

Which industry figure do you admire most?
Paul Gauselmann — for his vision, resilience, and commitment to innovation. He has built a global business while staying true to his principles, and that combination is rare. I also admire operators who keep their venues thriving on the high street against the odds — their determination and creativity embody the spirit of the industry.

What role have you enjoyed most?
This one. Being General Manager of Merkur UK allows me to bring together everything I’ve learned — from operations and compliance through to people management and strategy. It’s a role that challenges me daily but also gives me the opportunity to make a positive difference across the organisation.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
I’d say it’s my family — my wife and two sons. They’ve kept me grounded throughout my career and reminded me of what really matters. Their encouragement and honesty have been invaluable, giving me perspective at times when business pressures could easily have taken over.

How do you define success?
Success is balance: strong business performance delivered in a way that creates opportunities, protects communities, and upholds values. It’s about growth that feels sustainable and purposeful, not just profitable.

How do you manage stress?
Travelling to new places, spending time in the countryside, sea fishing and spending time with my family. For me, it’s about switching off and regaining perspective — stepping away from the day-to-day so I can return with a clearer head.

What are your career regrets?
I don’t believe in regrets. Every setback has been a learning experience, and those lessons often turn out to be more valuable than the successes.

What inspires or motivates you?
Seeing our teams create safe, welcoming venues and deliver outstanding service is a huge motivator. It reminds me why we do what we do — not just for business performance, but for the people who make the sector work every day.

What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Be patient, stay curious, and don’t be afraid of mistakes — they’re your best teachers. Trust that the path won’t always be straight, but the detours often give you the most valuable experiences.

Something about yourself that’s not on your CV?
Oh dear… I like life. I like good people around me. I like different cultures. I like nice countryside. I like to be active. I also enjoy the challenge of trying new things — whether it’s a new sport, travelling somewhere off the beaten path, or just finding a new hobby. Those experiences give me energy and perspective outside of work.

In a sentence what would you change about the industry?
If I could change one thing, it would be to bring industry, regulators, and government even closer together so we can modernise, embrace innovation, and highlight the positive contribution our sector makes to communities and the high street — all while keeping regulation in step with technology and customer expectations.

One piece of advice or insight that has changed your life and from whom?
“Always listen more than you speak” — advice from an early mentor that has served me well. Over the years, I’ve realised that listening carefully not only helps you understand others better, but also gives you the clarity to make better decisions. I was very lucky in my life to have had three mentors over 25-years of working experience, each of whom reinforced the importance of humility, patience, and curiosity.

What’s your Desert Island Disc?
It was Oasis in the ’90s — the soundtrack to my younger years and still a reminder of the energy and optimism of that time.