Industry

WestGroupe Announces Retirement of Beverly Suliteanu, Appoints Natalie Lacroce as VP, Brand and Product Planning

Vision Monday1d ago1 min read

MONTREAL—WestGroupe has announced the retirement of Beverly Suliteanu, vice president, product development and creative director, effective May 31, 2026. In making the announcement, the company said Suliteanu’s retirement “marks the close of an extraordinary chapter in the company’s history and the evolution of a family-led business.” A second-generation leader, Suliteanu has been an integral part of WestGroupe’s leadership for more than three decades, working alongside her brother, Michael Suliteanu, and Mike DeBono. As part of this transition, WestGroupe has announced the appointment of Natalie Lacroce as vice president, brand and product planning.

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AI Summary

Quick Take

WestGroupe has announced that Beverly Suliteanu, a second-generation leader and long-time creative director, will retire on May 31, 2026, after more than 30 years with the company. To ensure a smooth leadership transition, Natalie Lacroce has been appointed as the new Vice President of Brand and Product Planning.

Why It Matters

WestGroupe is a major fixture in the North American eyewear market, and Beverly Suliteanu’s influence has been foundational to the aesthetic and commercial success of their diverse frame portfolio. For practice owners and opticians, leadership changes at this level can signal future shifts in design philosophy, brand positioning, or portfolio expansion. This transition is particularly noteworthy as it moves the company beyond its core second-generation family leadership, potentially introducing new strategic perspectives into their product development cycle.

Key Details

Beverly Suliteanu will step down from her roles as Vice President of Product Development and Creative Director.
The retirement is scheduled for May 31, 2026, allowing for a two-year transition period.
Suliteanu has spent over three decades in leadership alongside her brother, Michael Suliteanu, and Mike DeBono.
Natalie Lacroce has been named Vice President, Brand and Product Planning to lead the company's next creative chapter.
The move marks a significant evolution for the Montreal-based family business as it prepares for future growth.

Who's Affected

Practice OwnersOpticiansOptical BuyersFrame Stylists

What's Next

With the retirement set for mid-2026, the industry can expect a gradual handover of creative and planning responsibilities to Natalie Lacroce. This extended timeline suggests WestGroupe intends to maintain brand continuity and stability across its eyewear collections during the transition.

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