It was just announced that Stéphane de La Faverie will take over as Estée Lauder’s CEO on January 1, 2025, but it looks like he is up against a harsh crowd. Faverie, bringing over a decade of experience at the company, also raised investor concerns about his ability to lead the brand toward innovation that resonates with younger consumers. As brand preferences shift quickly, a fresh approach has become essential to engage a generation that seeks accessibility, diversity, and a direct digital relationship with brands—qualities that don’t always align with Estée Lauder’s classic luxury image.
Younger consumers, especially Gen Z and millennials, value brands that connect authentically in digital spaces, with inclusivity and transparency at the forefront. Estée Lauder’s polished, heritage-driven approach can feel out of touch to these audiences, who respond more to relatable, interactive brands like Fenty Beauty and Glossier. De La Faverie’s luxury-first background might make it difficult for him to adopt the bold social and digital strategies that are now shaping the beauty industry.
Disclosure: This list is intended as an informational resource and is based on independent research and publicly available information. It does not imply that these businesses are the absolute best in their category. Learn more here.
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