// Holland & Barrett’s international chief Echo Lu steps down
// Follows review of the retailer’s overseas expansion strategy
The person who headed up Holland & Barrett’s international operation has reportedly resigned after a review of the health and wellness retailer’s expansion strategy.
According to Retail Week, Echo Lu has exited Holland & Barrett after near two years in the role.
It’s not yet known if the retailer will hire a replacement nor if Lu had a new role lined up.
An internal memo indicated that Holland & Barrett had reviewed its international division but decided to shift its focus on improving the business in the UK, Retail Week reported.
Holland & Barrett operates in 15 overseas markets, including China, Belgium, Sweden and The Netherlands.
“With a new board and management team in place, the strategy has been refined to better position the business for future growth,” a spokeserson for the retailer said.
“As part of this, we have also reviewed how and where we intend to expand internationally.
“Given the changes to our international plans, Echo Lu decided that she would like to pursue a career outside of Holland & Barrett and has been helping us with our transitionary arrangements.
“We are appreciative of this support and wish Echo well in her future endeavours.”
Lu, who was managing director at Homebase prior to its ill-fated acquisition by Bunnings and has previously held senior roles at Tesco, has left the health and wellness retailer after nearly two years leading its international division.
Lu’s exit follows that of John Walden, who stepped down as executive chair of Holland & Barrett in June.
Walden’s departure came shortly after Travis Perkins chief operating officer Tony Buffin was appointed Holland & Barrett’s new chief executive in May.
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