Wacoal Europe‘s CEO, Tracy Lewis, today announced her intention to step down at the end of March 2016, after 13 hugely successful years with the company. Under her tutelage the Eveden company (primarily a UK-centric business) opened offices internationally to expand their export business. She was responsible for acquiring new brands into the Eveden company (including Huit) and in 2012 she oversaw the sale of Eveden to the Japanese owned Wacoal Group.
Tracy will be handing over the reins to Geoff Embley (current Finance Director with 10 years’ experience at the company) and will support the transition for a short period following handover, in an advisory capacity. She has led the company to become leaders in A-K cup fittings bras with a family of very successful brands: Wacoal, Fantasie, Freya, Elomi, Goddess, Huit and b.tempt’d – which are stocked in over 5,000 retailers worldwide (available in more than 30 countries).
Picture by Edward Moss Photography
Tracy commented today with her usual modesty: “The last 13 years have been an incredible journey, of which I am proud to have been part. The wonderful team at Wacoal Europe have all contributed to the growth of our brands globally and I have enjoyed every one of our many achievements together. I leave the business in great shape for Geoff and the team to build an even more exciting future.”
She added: “My passion for product, retail and my entrepreneurial spirit is as strong as ever and I look forward to new experiences and new opportunities. I thank all of our wonderful retailers and suppliers for supporting the business in achieving such success and our passionate consumers around the world for loving and living in our fabulous brands.”
Tracy has put forward for numerous awards, winning the EY UK Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Private Equity Backed Businesses in 2012.
Wacoal Europe Chairman, Mr Yuzo Ide, commented: “On behalf of the Wacoal Group I would like to acknowledge and thank Tracy for her achievements, passion and vision in leading the business to where it stands today.”
There is no statement yet on where Tracy may be progressing her career but Underlines is hoping it will still be in the world of underwear and swimwear.
