In a significant leadership transition, Frédéric Chevalier has been appointed as the new CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail, effective July 1, 2025. This appointment marks a pivotal moment in the company’s history, as Chevalier steps into the role following his tenure as deputy CEO since July 2024. The outgoing chairman and CEO, Dag Rasmussen, will shift to a more strategic position, a decision he made after recognizing Chevalier’s invaluable contributions to the company over nearly two decades. Chevalier’s ascension to the top spot comes at a crucial time, as Lagardère Travel Retail is set to enhance its global presence and solidify its leadership position within the travel retail sector.
Under Chevalier’s guidance, Lagardère aims to continue innovating and pursuing strategic expansions while upholding its commitment to operational excellence. His extensive background within the company has equipped him with the necessary tools to steer it towards unprecedented growth, especially given the current expansion of its footprint worldwide.
A Legacy of Transformation and Global Expansion
Frédéric Chevalier joined Lagardère Travel Retail in 2006 and has since become a central figure in the company’s evolution. His contributions have been integral to the integration of the company’s three distinct business lines—a milestone that has significantly impacted Lagardère’s long-term strategy. This strategic shift has resulted in impressive revenue growth, exemplified by a 16% increase in sales in 2024 alone.
Arnaud Lagardère, Chairman & CEO of Lagardère Group, has publicly commended Chevalier for his role in the company’s success, stating, “Frédéric has played a central role alongside Dag in Lagardère Travel Retail’s transformation over recent years. His experience, combined with his well-recognized skills, both internally and externally, makes him the natural choice for this prominent role.”
The numbers speak for themselves; over the past decade, Lagardère Travel Retail has nearly tripled its revenue, expanding into new markets and forming vital partnerships. This includes bolstering its European footprint with contracts in cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, Belfast, and Nice, along with extending operations to major global hubs such as Auckland, Lima, and Sydney.
A New Era for Leadership
As Chevalier takes the reins, he will oversee the global operations of Lagardère Travel Retail, which encompasses a diverse portfolio of retail, dining, and duty-free operations across several continents. The shift in leadership dynamics means that all Executive Committee members will now report directly to Chevalier, thereby reinforcing his authority and vision within the organization. Dag Rasmussen has expressed his confidence in Chevalier’s capabilities, stating, “Frédéric’s in-depth knowledge of our business, his pivotal role in its transformation, and his strong leadership make him uniquely qualified to lead the next phase of our journey.”
This leadership transition is not merely administrative; it is part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring Lagardère Travel Retail remains competitive in an ever-evolving market landscape. With Chevalier’s ability to lead with clarity and ambition, the company looks poised to maintain its momentum and continue its upward trajectory.
Innovating and Expanding Globally
Lagardère Travel Retail’s efforts for global expansion have recently gained traction, with new operations launching in key cities and airports worldwide. The company has been selected as a joint-venture partner for duty-free operations at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, further solidifying its status as a trusted partner for both landlords and brands within the travel retail sector.
The company’s portfolio now spans numerous global destinations, including bustling urban centers in Europe and emerging markets across Africa and the Middle East. Locations such as Kigali, Yaoundé, and Cotonou are examples of successful expansions, demonstrating the company’s adaptability to various regional markets while consistently delivering operational excellence.
Commitment to Innovation and Retail Excellence
Lagardère Travel Retail has established a reputation for prioritizing innovation and operational efficiency as it ventures into new territories. This commitment is reflected in recent initiatives that involve creating state-of-the-art retail environments and dining experiences tailored to meet the changing needs of travelers. With Chevalier at the helm, the company is set to continue pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in travel retail.
Chevalier himself emphasized the importance of agility and responsiveness in an ever-changing market, stating, “While staying consistent in our strategy, we must remain agile, responsive, and willing to adapt to change. Our direction is clear: to continue creating value for our partners and memorable retail and dining experiences for travelers through a constant drive for excellence.”
As travel patterns continue to evolve, Lagardère Travel Retail is committed to innovating and curating high-quality offerings that cater to its customers’ needs, ensuring it retains its status as a market leader.
A Bright Future Ahead
With Frédéric Chevalier at the forefront as CEO, Lagardère Travel Retail is well-positioned for ongoing success. His long-standing dedication to the company, coupled with his strategic insights, renders him the ideal leader to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global market. As the company expands its international presence, its focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction will remain the cornerstone of its future growth.
As Lagardère Travel Retail looks ahead, it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing outstanding retail and dining experiences for travelers while nurturing robust relationships with partners and stakeholders across the globe.
Conclusion: A Leadership Transition for Future Growth
The leadership transition at Lagardère Travel Retail signifies the company’s commitment to internal development and its strategic focus on innovation and growth within the global travel retail sector. With Frédéric Chevalier now leading the charge, the organization is set to continue its expansion into new markets, build upon its strong performance, and further solidify its standing as a reliable partner in the travel industry.
