Di Humphries returns to head Glassons chain at Hallenstein

Thursday 14th April 2016

Di Humphries is returning to the helm of Hallenstein Glasson’s women’s wear chain after a stint at the ailing children's clothing chain Pumpkin Patch.

Humphries will start as chief executive of Glassons today, the Auckland-based retailer said in a statement. She was previously managing director of Glassons and executive director of parent company Hallenstein Glasson Holdings, before she left to join Pumpkin Patch in 2012, stepping up to the CEO role there in August 2013.

Hallenstein Glasson last month posted a 21 percent drop in first-half profit, as its gross margin fell to 56.79 percent from to 60.42 percent. All the brands saw sales growth in the period apart from Glassons in New Zealand, and the company said there has been a "significant focus on improving the fashion offer" which should see better future performance. Chief executive Graeme Popplewell said today he was delighted to welcome Humphries back to the business.

“Di has an in-depth understanding of the Glassons business having built Glassons to its most successful period when she was with the company between 2000 and 2012," Popplewell said. “The board and I are confident that Di will grow the business, improve profitability and strengthen our position in New Zealand and Australia as more global players enter these markets. It’s a coup for us to get Di back and with the focus on improving the Glassons fashion offer, Di’s expertise and leadership will be key."

Humphries has more than 25 years' retail experience in New Zealand and Australia.

She said time away from the business gave her a fresh perspective on its challenges and opportunities.

Hallenstein Glasson shares last traded at $2.84, and have shed 15 percent this year.

BusinessDesk.co.nz

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