Philippe Berlan steps down as CEO

After announcing a strategic focus on home goods in November 2023, La Redoute now faces a significant leadership change. Philippe Berlan will leave his position at the end of July, having served as CEO since March 2022. The executive committee will assume interim responsibilities under the guidance of Philippe Houzé, chairman of La Redoute and head of its parent company, Galeries Lafayette.

According to the company statement, Philippe Berlan, who previously held positions at Petit Bateau, Casino, and Lancel, is leaving “to pursue a new professional opportunity.” The search for his successor is currently underway.

“Philippe Berlan has played a pivotal role in transforming La Redoute since he joined in 2012, establishing the company as a leading player in French e-commerce,” said Philippe Houzé. “As La Redoute embarks on a new growth phase, focusing on the lifestyle and home market, driven by strong international expansion and the excellence of its own brands (La Redoute Intérieurs, AMPM, La Redoute Collections), I am confident in the full commitment of the executive committee and teams to continue growing this magnificent company together.”

La Redoute’s 2024-2027 plan aims to “become a European leader” in the home and decoration market, which now accounts for over 60% of its sales. While the fashion segment, which has been its core for many decades, is not being abandoned, it is being streamlined and renewed towards a range of timeless pieces, with an emphasis on increasing the share of made-in-Europe products.

La Redoute boasts 8.8 million active customers worldwide and operates 9 stores and 50 corners. The platform reports a business volume of around one billion euros, with 35% coming from exports. Like many online businesses, it experienced a slight decline in activity following the booming Covid period. The Houzé family first entered La Redoute’s capital in 2017, before the duo Nathalie Balla and Eric Courteille sold them 100% of the shares in the spring of 2022.