Carrefour, Europe’s biggest retailer, is tight-lipped over renewed speculation that it has approached Georges Plassat to replace chief executive Lars Olofsson.

Plassat, the head of French fashion retail group Vivarte, rebuffed an approach from Carrefour in November, according to media reports.

But today (17 January) The Financial Times reported Plassat is still in talks about taking the top spot, citing sources familiar with the matter.

A spokesman for Carrefour said: “We are not commenting on this. We have a policy of not commenting on speculation. It’s a recurring rumour and we know that Reuters said Plassat has been approached twice and refused.”

The rumours come at with uncertainty surrounding the French retail giant. Carrefour has announced numerous profit warnings last year and also faces dissent rom investors.

In December there were reports that Carrefour shareholder Knight Vinke Asset Management, a US investment fund, was in negotiations about a seat on the board and in October, Knight Vinke urged the French retail giant to appoint an independent chairman.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Carrefour will report its 2011 sales results tomorrow morning.