Marit van Egmond, the distinguished CEO of Albert Heijn, Etos, and Gall & Gall, is set to depart from Ahold Delhaize on April 30, 2025, after an impressive 28-year tenure, marking the end of an era in Dutch retail.
Throughout her career, van Egmond has played an instrumental role in redefining Albert Heijn into a leading omnichannel retailer, a transformation that has significantly impacted the shopping experience for its customers.
“Under Marit’s leadership, Albert Heijn has evolved into an innovative omnichannel retailer and a trusted partner for customers and the 125,000 employees,” noted Frans Muller, CEO of Ahold Delhaize. “With a strong focus on our customers, passion for the products, and a commitment to sustainability, health, and innovation, she has successfully navigated the company through turbulent times.”
Van Egmond commenced her journey at Ahold in 1997 as a management trainee. Over the years, she undertook various roles within the company, ultimately becoming the executive vice president of commerce at Albert Heijn in 2014. In 2019, she was appointed as CEO, a role she would occupy for six years. Two years later, in 2021, she expanded her responsibilities to include leadership of Etos and Gall & Gall.
Reflecting on her time at the helm, van Egmond expressed gratitude for her experiences and achievements. She stated, “I am proud of the growth we have achieved together, our contribution to a healthy, social, and sustainable society. I look back with gratitude at the opportunities I have been given and the space I had to chart a new course for Albert Heijn.”
The departure of van Egmond signals a pivotal moment for Albert Heijn, Etos, and Gall & Gall, as the company is poised for its next phase of growth. The process of selecting her successor is already underway, and the leadership transition will focus on maintaining the company’s momentum and strategic direction.
Muller highlighted van Egmond's commercial acumen, “Marit has not only strengthened Albert Heijn commercially, but she has also made it more relevant to society.”
During her tenure, van Egmond witnessed significant technological advancements, particularly in online retail. Albert Heijn secured its position as a leader in e-commerce, significantly improving its market standing during her leadership. The introduction of automated distribution centers and the scaling of home delivery services demonstrate a commitment to innovation and customer service.
“It was an honor and a lot of fun to write a chapter in the history of Albert Heijn,” she remarked in a recent LinkedIn post, elaborating on her decision to leave. “I have chosen this moment because Albert Heijn, Etos, and Gall & Gall are well positioned, and a strong team is ready to continue the path we started together.”
Van Egmond's impact has not gone unnoticed beyond Ahold Delhaize. In 2022, she was recognized as Food Manager of the Year, reflecting her contributions to the industry and her influential leadership style.
Looking ahead, van Egmond has shared her excitement for new opportunities. “I will explore the world and enjoy every moment ahead,” she concluded, while extending her best wishes to her successor. “I wish them as much fun as I have had in the years.”
The retail landscape in the Netherlands will indeed look different without van Egmond, who has been a transformative figure in shaping the industry. As the search for a new leader continues, the legacy of her leadership will undoubtedly influence the company’s future.
With her departure, Ahold Delhaize faces the challenge of building on the strong foundation laid by van Egmond while navigating a rapidly changing retail environment.
Although the details of her next steps remain undisclosed, one thing is clear: Marit van Egmond leaves behind a resilient company, equipped for future success.
