It is with sadness that TRBusiness reports the passing of Anthony Chalhoub, Co-CEO of The Chalhoub Group.

A highly respected and prominent figure across the Middle Eastern travel retail sector, where the retailer and distributor has such a strong track record, Chalhoub joined the group founded and directed by his father Michel in 1975.

He was instrumental in securing the concession to launch the company’s Kuwait Airport duty free business back in 1993, which it managed for several years.

FORMER MEADFA PRESIDENT

A co-founding member of the Middle East and Africa Duty Free Association, Chalhoub served for four years as Vice-President and a further four years as President.

With over 25 years in travel retail, The Chalhoub Group continues to supply various travel retailers and airlines, while acting as an operator on the ground and inflight.

A statement on the company’s official Instagram page read: “Anthony was an extraordinary man and a fearless leader driven by passion and determination. We will always remember his humanitarian spirit, honesty, humility and kindness. We will continue to live by his legacy and values forever.”

A further tribute received by TRBusiness earlier today (19 December) described Chalhoub as a fearless leader, driven by his passion and determination. “It’s hard to express the heartfelt sorrow we are feeling right now.

“He joined the family venture 43 years ago and has been instrumental in the evolution and development of the Group. Anthony was mindful of maintaining the image of the brands entrusted to the Group. He was a French Overseas Trade Counsellor since 1991, passionate about the French culture and its know-how.”

A Knight of the Order of Malta and a Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, an official honour awarded by the French government, he has also been decorated Knight of the Légion d’honneur.

This is recognition of his economic and cultural achievements and active role, particularly during the Gulf invasion, where he facilitated the communication between Kuwait and France.

“Anthony always made sure that the Group conducts a responsible business while giving back to communities”, the tribute continued. “His engagement and commitment to sustainability were outstanding as he was devoted to making the world a better place.

“With his humanitarian spirit, humbleness, honesty, compassion, kindness and sense of humour, Anthony touched so many hearts. Those who have been fortunate enough to know him have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor.

“Anthony leaves us with great memories and the dreams he kept alive. We will continue to live by his legacy and the values he embodied.” 

TFWA TRIBUTE

New Tax Free World Association President Alain Mangreaud (left) describes Chalhoub as one of DF&TR’s true leaders. He said: “His drive, determination and business acumen helped place the Chalhoub Group at the forefront of our industry.

“He played an especially important role in the development of duty free & travel retail in the Middle East, both through his own business and as a very successful President of the Middle East Duty Free Association.

“More than that, he was a gentleman, whose warmth won him the affection of business partners and friends around the globe.

“The board, management committee and staff of TFWA join with Anthony’s many friends in sending our sincere condolences to his wife Edith, children Aurelia and Michel, parents Michel and Widad, brother Patrick, family and all at the Chalhoub Group.

“Anthony was a great friend to TFWA and all at the Association will miss him greatly.”