Fashion Giant Lacoste Welcomes New CEO from Beverage Industry
Parijs, vrijdag, 27 juni 2025.
Lacoste has appointed Eric Vallat, former CEO of Rémy Cointreau, as its new chairman. After ten years of leadership by Thierry Guibert, who has nearly tripled the brand’s turnover to approximately 3 billion euros, Vallat moves from the beverage industry to the fashion sector. With a background at luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Richemont, he brings extensive brand management experience. Guibert will focus on the parent company MF Brands, while Vallat will continue the brand’s international expansion and premium positioning. The appointment marks a strategic shift for the iconic fashion house, aiming to grow internationally and further strengthen its position at the intersection of fashion and sport.
Background of Eric Vallat
Eric Vallat boasts an extensive career across various sectors. Prior to his appointment at Lacoste, he worked as CEO of Rémy Cointreau, a position he left in April 2025 [1]. His professional experience also includes leadership roles at leading luxury brands, including nearly two years as head of fashion and accessories houses at Richemont [2]. Previously, he worked for renowned brands such as Louis Vuitton in Europe, Christian Dior Couture in Japan, and brands like Bonpoint and J.M. Weston [2].
Strategic Appointment
Vallat’s appointment at Lacoste is scheduled for 1 September 2025, succeeding Thierry Guibert [1][2]. Guibert has led the brand for ten years and nearly tripled its turnover to an estimated 3 billion euros [1][3]. He will now focus on his role as CEO of MF Brands Group and Maus Frères Group [2].
Future Perspectives
Vallat is seen as a ‘bold leader’ who must build upon the momentum Lacoste has created [2]. The brand has been working in recent years on international expansion, strengthening its premium status, and positioning itself at the crossroads of fashion and sport [2].