UK. Jo Malone has announced she is to “step back” from her eponymous brand, which was acquired by The Estée Lauder Companies in 1999.
Post-acquisition, she had retained the role of Creative Director, while her husband Gary Willcox held the position of UK Managing Director.
As revealed by The Moodie Report.com (28 January 2005), Jo Malone the brand made its travel retail debut in March last year, onboard British Airways. It extended that presence in July 2005, with a 500sq ft airside shop-in-shop at London Heathrow airport terminal three, in partnership with World Duty Free.
“After much soul-searching, I believe that this is a good time to make this decision as the brand is in a secure position and I have many other dreams and passions I would like to fulfil,” Malone explained in a letter of resignation dated yesterday (31 January).
“Every moment of building this special business – from the first day we opened our doors through today and all the wonderful moments in between – has been a magnificent journey,” she continued. “I want to thank everyone who has helped and encouraged us, and I remain particularly grateful to Leonard and Evelyn Lauder for their mentorship and friendship.”
In return, the Lauders paid tribute to Malone, extending to her their “heartfelt thanks and best wishes”.
“Jo started her business in 1983 at 21 years of age,” responded the Lauder Group Chairman Leonard. “She is a global success story in every sense of the word. Today, the Jo Malone business has achieved a tremendous level of success and is now flourishing in nine countries. We will continue to nurture and build this brand, and we thank Jo for helping us achieve a seamless transition.”
He concluded: “While Jo is stepping out of one door, she will never leave our family. We have enormous affection for Jo and Gary and thank them for their passion and friendship.”
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