Lululemon shores up support as Bergh joins board
Canadian yogawear brand Lululemon is aiming to strengthen its brand expertise at board level with the appointment of former Levi Strauss & Co CEO Chip Bergh, as the athleisure giant faces mounting pressure over slowing growth and a high-profile battle with founder Chip Wilson.
Bergh, who joined the board in March, is being positioned by Lululemon as a key figure in the company’s next phase, bringing more than a decade of experience leading Levi’s through a turnaround and its return to public markets in 2019.
In materials filed ahead of the company’s June shareholder meeting, Lululemon highlighted Bergh’s credentials in brand building, product-led growth and cultural relevance, describing him as “a true brand expert”.
Lululemon is attempting a recalibration of its own business after growth in North America slowed during fiscal 2025.
The company said it has launched a broad strategic reset focused on “product creation, product activation and enterprise enablement”, with renewed emphasis on innovation, tighter inventory management and premium positioning.
The board also defended its decision to recruit former Nike executive Heidi O'Neill as incoming CEO, citing her experience across apparel, merchandising and global consumer operations.
The leadership overhaul comes as founder Chip Wilson attempts to regain influence over the business through a dissident shareholder campaign.
Alongside Bergh, Lululemon is asking shareholders to back directors Esi Eggleston Bracey and Teri List.
