Introduction
In 2025, several prominent companies in Mexico’s consumer and retail sector have undergone CEO changes, driven by generational shifts and strategic adjustments to navigate a challenging economic environment. Among the companies affected are Walmart, Grupo Bimbo, Alsea, FEMSA, and El Palacio de Hierro.
Key CEO Changes
- Alsea: The restaurant operator saw a change in leadership, with the new CEO focusing on improved commercial execution and pricing discipline to address a demanding consumer market.
- Walmart de México and Centroamérica: The company implemented growth-oriented initiatives in the third quarter of 2025 to enhance profitability.
- FEMSA: The company welcomed José Antonio Fernández Garza-Lagüera as CEO, following a planned succession process.
- Grupo Bimbo: Rafael Pamias stepped down due to personal and health reasons, paving the way for new leadership.
- El Palacio de Hierro: Éléonore de Boysson became the new CEO, becoming the only woman among recent executive appointments and the first to lead this department store chain.
- Mondelez México: Carlos Veraza replaced Oriol Bonaclocha as CEO, following Bonaclocha’s move to Heineken Mexico.
Reasons Behind the Changes
Industry analysts, such as Marcela Muñoz from Roga Capital and Jacobo Rodríguez, attribute these CEO changes to a generational shift and strategic readjustments in response to a complex macroeconomic environment.
- Generational Shift: New leaders bring fresh perspectives based on their experience within the companies, which is crucial for adapting to evolving market conditions.
Strategic Adjustments: Companies aim to strengthen their core businesses and navigate upcoming regulatory changes, such as labor law modifications and potential tariff increases on imported goods.
Impact of Regulatory Changes and Market Conditions
Mexico’s consumer sector faces several challenges, including slow economic growth and a suboptimal consumption environment. Key regulatory changes, such as increased IEPS for sugary beverages and proposed tariff hikes on imports without trade agreements, will impact companies like Coca-Cola FEMSA, El Palacio de Hierro, and Walmart.
Additionally, labor law adjustments are on the horizon. Starting May 1, 2026, companies will gradually reduce weekly work hours from 48 to 40 by 2030. They must also adjust labor costs, as the current administration aims for a minimum wage capable of purchasing 2.5 basic baskets by 2030.
Key Questions and Answers
- Why are these CEO changes happening? These shifts reflect generational transitions and strategic adjustments to tackle a complex macroeconomic environment, including upcoming regulatory changes and market challenges.
- What are the key regulatory changes affecting these companies? Companies will face increased IEPS for sugary beverages, potential tariff hikes on imported goods without trade agreements, and labor law adjustments such as reduced work hours and minimum wage increases.
- How will these changes impact the companies’ strategies? Companies aim to bolster their core businesses, enhance efficiency, and adapt to new market conditions both in Mexico and globally.
