Chanel is trailing towards a sustainable future, as it appoints renowned luxury executive Sophie Brocart to lead its new circularity initiative. Chanel confirmed Brocart’s arrival in a statement to WWD [1] but did not elaborate on the scope of her new role.
Brocrat [2] is currently the CEO of Jean Patou, since 2018. Her extensive experience in relaunching luxury brands and a strong commitment to sustainable practices are assets that will support Chanel in its transition to a more sustainable business model. Brocart will oversee the development of strategies to promote circularity from the choice of materials to the end-of-life management of products. Her expertise will aid Chanel in its sustainability efforts, which include reducing carbon emissions. It is on its way to have net-zero emissions by 2040.
This initiative is part of Chanel’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing carbon emissions, promoting ethical sourcing, and extending the lifecycle of its products. Chanel has been actively advancing its sustainability efforts since 2020 when it introduced the ‘Chanel Mission 1.5’ in 2021. Chanel aims to reduce waste, conserve resources and build a more resilient fashion industry. In 2021, it named Kate Wylie as their Chief Sustainability Officer.
Among Chanel’s existing sustainability initiatives is the valuation of dormant stocks through the Atelier des Matières, which aims to recycle unused materials and unsold products from the fashion and luxury sectors. Chanel has also joined the Circul’R coalition in cosmetics, a collective initiative that brings together major beauty brands to develop solutions for reusing packaging. In Chanel’s 2024 report entitled “Net Zero Emissions 2040”, Chanel presented its strategic roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire value chain by 2040.
The international luxury powerhouse said its sustainability ambition “is focused on the areas where we believe Chanel can have the greatest positive impact: restoring nature, protecting the climate, investing in circularity; and supporting dignity and opportunity for all, particularly the autonomy of women”.
Brocart has also previously worked with Celine and Louis Vuitton as a marketing director specializing in leather goods. She has also been the mentor-in-chief of young talent within LVMH. She will join Chanel in early 2025 and will be tasked with building up the new entity dedicated to circularity.
Sources:
[1] EXCLUSIVE: Chanel Taps Sophie Brocart for New Circularity Entity
