Ppr: after Ford, two different stylists for Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent

According to a statement made by Serge Weinberg, president of Ppr, during a press conference on the 2003 results, Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent will have two different stylists after Tom Ford leaves in April.

Weinberg did not want to reveal the names of Ford's successors, which will be announced Sunday evening or soon after, and confirmed only that the selection would be made from within the group and that the new teams will be in place 'in time to take over the collections.'

'In recent months we have discovered a lot of talented people in the group who are animated by passion and professional ability', Weinberg stated. 'We want to offer them opportunities for development.

The Us magazine, Women's Wear Daily, has leaked that for Gucci it will probably be Alessandra Facchinetti for the women's collections, John Ray for the men's, and Alfreda Giannini for accessories, while the new art director for Yves Saint Laurent should be Stefano Pilati, currently in charge of this label's women's collections.

During the press conference, Weinberg excluded the transfer of one of its 10 luxury brands, but not possible discreet 'tactical acquisitions' to strengthen this sector.