Chanel: Uniqlo executive jumps ship

Berndt Hauptkorn has left the Japanese brand to, according to some sources, take on a senior role at French luxury brand Chanel. His position as Uniqlo’s chief executive for Europe is being filled by COO Takao Kuwahara.

At least that is what Retail Week has reported, citing an inside source at Uniqlo Europe, with a spokesperson also confirming the departure, effective 31 August. Berndt Hauptkorn is said to be taking on the role of President of Europe, including the Middle East, and will oversee all Chanel’s divisions including retail, wholesale, fashion, accessories, watches and beauty. He will be based in Paris.

Berndt Hauptkorn took on the role of President of Uniqlo Europe in June 2012, after having served as CEO of Bally for a little over two years. Between 2007 and 2010, he was the CEO of the Labelux group (Jimmy Choo, Bally, Belstaff and Zagliani). An author of several works, including "Laws of Pricing" and "Against the Tide", in 1994 he founded the company Ahead Marketing Kommunikation, before joining the Boston Consulting Group.

Chanel: Uniqlo executive jumps ship

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