The leadership at Hotel Chocolat has undergone a significant change with the appointment of a new CEO.
- Lysa Hardy, former UK managing director, has stepped into the role, enhancing the company’s leadership.
- This shift follows Hotel Chocolat’s acquisition by Mars, valued at £534 million, accelerating expansion plans.
- Hardy’s promotion is set to continue her impactful journey after doubling the UK business size in five years.
- With Mars backing, the focus is on broadening the store footprint and introducing new retail concepts.
Hotel Chocolat has strategically repositioned its leadership with the promotion of Lysa Hardy to the position of Chief Executive Officer. Hardy, who has been integral to the company since 2018, assumes this role from Angus Thirlwell, co-founder of the company, who now takes on the role of President.
The transition in leadership comes in the wake of Hotel Chocolat’s acquisition by confectionery giant Mars at the end of the previous year. This acquisition, which valued the business at £534 million, marks a significant shift in the company’s growth trajectory, with plans to leverage Mars’ resources to enhance its retail operations.
Lysa Hardy’s track record speaks volumes as she has been pivotal in doubling the size of Hotel Chocolat’s UK business over five years. Her innovative approach included creating the Velvetiser Hot Chocolate category, a notable contribution to the product line. Her experience extends beyond Hotel Chocolat, having held senior positions at Superdry, Joules, and Holland & Barrett.
Under Hardy’s leadership, Hotel Chocolat is set to expand its retail footprint aggressively. The company plans to open 20 new stores in the next 18 months, a strategic decision aligned with its new retail concept, which aims to showcase its extensive chocolate range more effectively.
In addition to new store openings, Hotel Chocolat recently launched its first bakery and hot food offering as part of its Velvetiser Café format. This move signals a diversification strategy, aiming to enhance customer experience and broaden the brand’s appeal.
The leadership change at Hotel Chocolat, underpinned by Mars’ acquisition, sets the stage for a new era of expansion and innovation.
