French fashion and sportswear brand Lacoste has replaced Chief Executive Officer Eric Vallat shortly before its latest Paris fashion show, according to three sources familiar with the matter.
Vallat, who previously led luxury spirits maker Remy Cointreau, joined Lacoste as CEO in June 2025 as the company sought to strengthen its premium positioning and reduce reliance on lower-margin wholesale sales.
A Lacoste spokesperson confirmed Vallat’s departure but did not provide a reason for the decision.
The company said its existing strategy would remain in place, describing the business as being supported by “robust fundamentals”.
Thierry Guibert, who led Lacoste for a decade before Vallat took over, will return as chief executive, according to the spokesperson.
Guibert also serves as head of Maus Freres, the Swiss group that owns Lacoste, and will resume direct leadership of the fashion brand.
Two sources familiar with Vallat’s departure said the move was not linked to Lacoste’s performance. The privately owned company has set a target of reaching €4 billion in annual sales between 2028 and 2030.
Goodness Anunobi
Follow us on:
