El Ganso taps former Cortefiel designer Ricardo de las Heras

Spanish clothing company El Ganso has bolstered its design team with the appointment of Ricardo de las Heras, a former creative director at Grupo Cortefiel and a well-known designer for his experience in men’s and women’s fashion. 

De las Heras has more than 30 years of experience in the development of womenswear and menswear collections and a deep understanding of the clothing industry. At Cortefiel, he served as menswear designer for brands such as Pedro del Hierro, Pedro del Hierro Sport, Cortefiel CTF-Sport and Aberdeen.

The company said his extensive knowledge and expertise in brands and retail both in Spain and internationally will help strengthen the business as it continues its international expansion following the acquisition of a sizeable stake from L Catterton (LVMH).

El Ganso ended 2016 with a sales increase of 17% to 82 million euros ($93 million), compared with sales of 70 million euros ($79 million) in the previous year.

In 2016, the brand accelerated its international expansion with the launch of nearly 50 new stores in the French, British, Mexican, Spanish and German markets.

Currently, the apparel, shoes and accessories retailer has 187 stores in 10 countries, including France, Portugal, Belgium, England, Chile, Mexico, the Netherlands, Italy and Germany.