Habitat's French arm brings new chief on board

Habitat has appointed Paul-Henri Cecillon to lead the furniture retailer's French chain.

Cecillon, who joins from posh crystal brand Christofle, is undertaking a three-month induction programme to familiarise himself with the 24 stores, before taking the reins as country manager for France in September.

Ikano-owned Habitat, which is celebrating its 40th birthday this year, is striving to improve profitability. Last year Habitat recruited former Tesco head of non-food operations Mark Hislop to run the 40-store UK business.

It is refitting the Tottenham Court Road outlet, and will expand its Irish presence with franchise stores in Belfast and Galway this autumn.