FRANCE: Auchan speeds up international development with new appointments

In order that French retailer Auchan can continue its international offensive, a new director of development has been appointed to take responsibility for the company's expansion. The man in question is 37 year old Vianney Mulliez, the financial director of Auchan France since 1998. HEC qualified and chartered accountant, Mulliez has also spent 8 years working for Price Waterhouse and 6 at MBV Associates. In his new role, he will be among the three leaders of distribution in Europe, and his objective will be to continue Auchan's ambitious five-year programme, which will see the opening of 50 shops.Already controlling 84 units in 10 countries, Auchan intends to reinforce that international presence, especially in Southern Europe, eastern countries and Latin America. At the recent General meeting of Shareholders, Auchan management confirmed that some 30 openings are being considered in China and 10 in Thailand.As financial director, Mulliez will be replaced by 40 year old Gilles Vestur, who has been with the company since January 1999. Vestur was auditor of Price Waterhouse, financial controller of Center Parcs (1988-1990) then accounts director and financial director of Christian Dior Couture from 1990-1998.Philippe Saudo is DRH of the Auchan group, director of Auchan Portugal since 1996. Joel Fabini replaces Daniel Guilluy as DRH of Auchan France. With the group since 1980, he has been joint director of human and social development in Auchan France since 1997.