Lacoste names Eric Vallat as chief executive, replacing Thierry Guibert
Lacoste is entering a new era of leadership. Ten years after taking the reins and nearly tripling the brand's revenue—which is now reportedly nearing €3 billion— Thierry Guibert is stepping back from day-to-day operations. A seasoned executive with prior leadership roles at Fnac and Conforama, Guibert has appointed a trusted successor: Eric Vallat, most recently CEO of Rémy Cointreau, will return to the fashion industry as Lacoste's new chief executive.
According to U.S. publication WWD, Vallat will officially join the French brand on 1 September.
The appointment marks a return to familiar territory for Vallat. Before leading Rémy Cointreau, he served as CEO of Rémy Martin, the company's cognac division under the Richemont Group. Based in Geneva, he also oversaw Richemont's fashion and accessories division. Earlier in his career, he held executive roles at French luxury labels J.M. Weston and Bonpoint.
With Vallat's arrival, Guibert will step down from Lacoste's operational leadership.
'I've had the privilege of leading Lacoste for over ten years, working alongside exceptional teams to guide the brand through a major transformation,' Guibert said in a statement. 'Now, I've chosen to focus fully on leading MF Brands Group. I'm very pleased to hand over the reins to Eric Vallat—a bold leader with a proven track record. His extensive expertise and experience will be key to unlocking Lacoste's next chapter. I'm confident he will carry forward the momentum we've built with both excellence and a collective spirit. As CEO of MF Brands Group, I will remain closely involved in supporting him in this new phase.'
Guibert will continue as CEO of MF Brands Group, which recently sold The Kooples but retains Gant, Aigle, and Tecnifibre in its portfolio. The group reports €3.7 billion in business volume, a network of 2,400 stores, and a global workforce of around 12,000.
(Exchange rate: 1 euro = 0.85 pounds sterling)
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