Al Zain Jewellery Appoints Bulgari Veteran Luis Gasset as CEO to Spearhead Global Expansion
Bahrain-based luxury jeweler Al Zain is poised for a new era of international growth with the appointment of luxury sector stalwart Luis Gasset as its new Chief Executive Officer. Gasset, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at LVMH, including a significant tenure at Bulgari, is tasked with elevating Al Zain’s global presence and building on its rich Arabian heritage.
In a strategic move signaling its ambitious global expansion plans, Al Zain Jewellery, a revered name in the Middle Eastern high jewelry landscape for nearly a century, has named Luis Gasset as its new CEO. With a network of 14 boutiques across the Middle East, Al Zain is a brand deeply rooted in the traditions of Arabian craftsmanship. The appointment of Gasset, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in the luxury goods sector, underscores the company’s commitment to transforming into a globally recognized name.
A Heritage of Pearling and Passion
Founded in 1930 by Hassan Al Zain, the company’s origins lie in the ancient Bahraini tradition of pearl trading. In an era when the regional economy was dominated by pearling, fishing, and farming, Hassan Al Zain was a pioneer. This legacy, deeply intertwined with the natural treasures of the Arabian Gulf, has been meticulously preserved and passed down through generations. Today, under the stewardship of the Al Zain family, the brand is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, with a focus on creating unique pieces that resonate with a modern global audience while remaining true to their Arabian soul.
Al Zain’s commitment to its heritage is evident in its stunning collections. The ‘Arab Deco’ collection, for instance, masterfully fuses the glamour of the Art Deco period with the intricate geometric patterns of Arabesque design. This collection, which prominently features the natural Bahraini pearls that are a cornerstone of the brand’s identity, is a testament to Al Zain’s ability to innovate while honoring its past. Another notable collection, ‘Hab El Hayl’, draws inspiration from the humble cardamom seed, a spice with deep cultural significance in Bahrain, known for its healing properties. This collection reimagines traditional Bahraini motifs in a modern, minimalist aesthetic, often crafted in 18k yellow, rose, and white gold, and designed for versatile stacking and layering.
The American Dream: A Foothold in the U.S. Market
Al Zain has already taken its first significant steps onto the global stage, with a strategic focus on the U.S. market. The brand’s exquisite creations are now available at the prestigious American luxury department store, Neiman Marcus, and through Florida’s esteemed Provident Jewelry chain. This move into the highly competitive U.S. market is a clear indication of Al Zain’s confidence in its unique value proposition and the universal appeal of its designs. The brand’s presence in these premier retail locations provides a crucial platform to introduce its rich narrative and exceptional craftsmanship to a discerning American clientele.
A Visionary Leader for a New Chapter
The appointment of Luis Gasset as CEO is a pivotal moment in Al Zain’s journey. Gasset’s impressive resume boasts over 20 years at the luxury conglomerate LVMH, where he held several senior roles. His eight-year tenure as the CEO for the Middle East and Africa at the iconic Italian jewelry brand Bulgari, from 2007 to 2015, is particularly noteworthy. During this time, he was instrumental in driving the brand’s regional growth and elevating its presence in key markets.
More recently, Gasset served as the Senior Vice President at Qatar Airways, where he oversaw the airline’s luxury retail, marketing, and supply chain operations. This experience has given him a unique perspective on the global luxury consumer and the intricacies of the international retail landscape. His proven track record in business transformation and brand reinvention makes him the ideal leader to guide Al Zain through its next phase of ambitious growth.
The Board of Directors at Al Zain has expressed its confidence in Gasset’s ability to lead the company into the future. In a statement, they noted, “His international expertise, refined leadership, and deep understanding of the luxury consumer will guide our evolution into a forward-thinking, world-class jewellery brand.”
Charting a Course for Global Recognition
In his new role, Gasset will be responsible for implementing Al Zain’s strategic vision, with a focus on several key areas. A primary objective will be to enrich the customer experience, ensuring that the brand’s story and its commitment to quality are communicated effectively at every touchpoint. He will also oversee the expansion of Al Zain’s global retail footprint, identifying and capitalizing on new market opportunities.
Furthermore, Gasset will be tasked with nurturing innovation in both design and distribution, ensuring that Al Zain remains at the forefront of the ever-evolving luxury jewelry market. His deep appreciation for craftsmanship and brand heritage, honed during his time at historic fashion houses, aligns perfectly with Al Zain’s core values.
Upon his appointment, Luis Gasset expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am honored to join Al Zain at this exciting moment. I look forward to building on the brand’s proud legacy and expanding its presence on the global stage.”
With a rich heritage, a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, and now, a visionary leader at the helm, Al Zain Jewellery is perfectly positioned to write the next chapter in its illustrious history. As the brand continues to share its unique blend of Arabian tradition and contemporary design with the world, the future for this Bahraini luxury house looks brighter than ever.
