“As I leave office that has occupied every second of my life and energy for more than three decades, I want to express my deep respect and unwavering thanks for all that you have accomplished
. ”
On the eve of leaving his post as CEO of Casino, Jean-Charles Naouri split the armor, in a letter sent Tuesday to the employees of the Saint-Etienne distributor.
"Once again thank you !"
, he added by hand, and in blue ink.
At 75 years old, the manager does not wish to dwell on the reasons for this forced departure, namely the risk of bankruptcy of his group, which was drowning in debt.
“As you know, a certain number of elements and events forced me to make trying decisions,”
summarizes the CEO, who held more than half of the capital of Casino via a cascade of holding companies.
In fact, the group came under the control of a consortium led by Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky on Wednesday evening.
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Jean-Charles Naouri prefers to emphasize the positive traces he left.
“In 1992, when I decided to build a modern distribution group, I wanted Casino to bring the values of social progress, innovation and anticipation to life everywhere and for everyone,”
the CEO reminded his colleagues. employees.
With each of you, I am proud to have been able to write this story which is unlike any other.
More than 32 years later, I fully and deeply understand that this story, its successes and the strength of our emblematic brands, owe to the daily commitment of each and every one of you.”
“I am completely aware that the current context is difficult for most of you
,” underlines Jean-Charles Naouri, without confiding to his teams to what extent he himself is affected by the situation.