Delsey hires new global director to drive accelerated international expansion and upmarket shift.

Delsey is shifting its strategic focus towards international markets following the appointment of Gilles Bariguian as the new global managing director. Bariguian is tasked with leading the luggage brand into a new phase defined by accelerated global expansion, a move upmarket, and sustainable, profitable growth. This strategic realignment is taking place as the company approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026.

In his new role, Bariguian expressed enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, "I am delighted and honoured to be working with the teams to elevate the brand and open a new chapter of global development in a rapidly changing mobility market." He also highlighted the brand's evolving identity, noting that Delsey is moving beyond being "just a travel brand" to cater to "every moment of mobility," acknowledging significant market changes since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bariguian's extensive professional background includes 20 years at Procter & Gamble across four continents. He has also held key positions at Guess EMEA, Etoile Group (specializing in luxury goods in the Middle East), and Cenomi (a department-store chain in Saudi Arabia). This experience will be crucial as he directs the Parisian brand’s international expansion. Furthermore, Bariguian will continue his consulting role with the Saudi Fashion Commission and its 100 Brands programme.

Analyzing Delsey's current distribution, the brand exhibits its strongest presence in the US with 2,561 points of sale and Europe with 1,688. In contrast, the company has just over 300 points of sale in Asia and 111 across the Arabian Peninsula. This disparity illustrates the significant growth potential in specific regions targeted by the new strategic initiative.

Beyond geographical expansion, Bariguian's objectives for Delsey include accelerating digital transformation, broadening the product portfolio to align with diverse mobility needs, and building sustainable, profitable growth for the company, which was founded in 1946.