The transition at Hotel Chocolat marks a significant shift after the Mars acquisition.
- Lysa Hardy, previously the UK managing director, assumes the role of CEO.
- The business valued at £534m, focuses on aggressive expansion plans.
- Hardy credited with doubling the UK’s business size and innovating the Velvetiser.
- Retailer plans to open 20 new stores to expand its experiential offerings.
Following its acquisition by Mars last year for £534 million, Hotel Chocolat has undergone a pivotal leadership change with Lysa Hardy stepping into the role of Chief Executive Officer. This appointment follows Hardy’s successful tenure as the UK managing director and group marketing officer for the brand since 2018.
Lysa Hardy has been instrumental in energising the brand’s presence and profitability in the UK market. Over her five-year tenure, she has doubled the size of the UK business and pioneered the development of the innovative Velvetiser Hot Chocolate category. These achievements highlight her capability to drive significant commercial growth and establish novel product segments.
The transition in leadership coincides with Hotel Chocolat’s strategic expansion under the Mars umbrella. With plans to launch 20 new stores over the forthcoming 18 months, the retailer is focused on enhancing its experiential retail offering. New outlets will be integrated with concepts designed to optimally showcase the brand’s wide-ranging chocolate products, exemplifying the brand’s forward-thinking retail strategies.
Hotel Chocolat has been actively expanding its store footprint by incorporating new concepts like the Velvetiser Café, which debuted last month. This format includes the retailer’s first bakery and hot food offerings, aligning with the brand’s vision to provide an immersive chocolate experience beyond traditional retail.
Lysa Hardy’s appointment not only reflects her personal career progression but also marks a strategic pivot in the company’s trajectory post-acquisition. As Angus Thirlwell transitions to the role of President, Hardy’s promotion underscores a renewed emphasis on aggressive growth and market adaptation within the competitive confectionery sector.
Lysa Hardy’s appointment as CEO represents a strategic shift for Hotel Chocolat, accentuating its growth ambitions and innovative retail approaches under Mars’ ownership.
