Leadership change at Gifi

Gifi has appointed Patrick Puy as its new leader, marking the fourth change in leadership in two years. Puy, a former executive at Moulinex-Brandt and Go Sport, is tasked with steering the company back on track amid ongoing difficulties.

Puy's experience in company transformation

Puy, described as an "independent administrator of the group since 2025," has experience in managing and transforming companies, particularly in the sectors of industry and retail. His previous roles included leading several companies in crisis, including Moulinex-Brandt, Vivarte, and Go Sport, with restructuring plans that often involved significant layoffs.

Challenges facing Gifi

The difficulties facing Gifi began with a failed computer system change in 2023, which caused structural issues such as difficulties in tracking results, inventory, and supplies. These problems affected the sales of stores and the group's cash flow.

Competition and strategic moves

Additionally, competition from other stores such as Action and Maxibazar, as well as internet platforms like the Chinese group Temu, has further challenged Gifi. In 2025, Gifi had planned to reduce its workforce by 5% (6,000 people in France) but interrupted this layoff plan. Since then, the company has approached the food distributor Grand Frais to sell them about thirty stores.