Ginette Moulin, owner of Galeries Lafayette Group, passed away

What: Ginette Moulin, owner of Galeries Lafayette Group and granddaughter of founder Théophile Bader, passes away at 98, following recent transition of family holding control to next generation.

Why it is important: This transition represents a pivotal moment in French retail history, as leadership passes to a new generation while preserving the values and vision of one of France's most iconic retail institutions.

Ginette Moulin, who passed away at 98, was instrumental in maintaining the legacy of Galeries Lafayette since its creation by her grandfather Théophile Bader in 1894. She had already orchestrated a carefully planned succession in August 2024, transferring control of the family holding Motier to her son-in-law Philippe Houzé and grandchildren Nicolas Houzé, Guillaume Houzé, and Arthur Lemoine.  

IADS Notes: The passing of Ginette Moulin marks a significant moment in Galeries Lafayette's evolution, coming after the planned leadership transition in August 2024 when she handed control of the Motier holding to Philippe Houzé. This succession was part of a broader transformation strategy, as evidenced by October 2024's announcement of Nicolas Houzé's new leadership role and a €400 million investment plan. The timing of these changes reflects the group's careful balance between preserving its heritage, dating back to Théophile Bader's founding in 1894, while pursuing modernization through strategic initiatives like store renovations and digital transformation.