Auchan Retail has announced the promotion of Guillaume Darrasse to chief executive officer.

Darrasse, who succeeds Yves Claude, previously held the role of deputy chief executive at the France-headquartered supermarket chain.

In his new role Darrasse will be responsible for implementing the six priorities of Auchan. These include strengthening the companies in strategic markets, developing the franchise business, improving operational efficiency and moving towards the hypermarket model.

Prior to joining Auchan in April 2024, Darrasse held the role of deputy chief executive at French supermarket company Teract. He has also worked as chief executive officer of InVivo Retailer and Système U Group as deputy chief executive.

Additionally, Darrasse worked for the Pomona group where he held several positions in fruit and vegetable production and worked for the Leclerc group as head of food imports.

Darrasse’s appointment has been approved by Auchan’s board of directors.

“By re-forming a chief executive and chairman duo at the head of Auchan Retail, we are returning to a traditional organisation at the AFM (Association familiale Mulliez),” said Claude, who will remain chairman at the group. “It will allow us to both ensure the deployment of the Vision 2032 set by the company and accelerate the implementation of its strategic priorities over the coming months.”

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