Barrière and Loulou Join Forces

The Lucien Barrière Group becomes the majority shareholder of Loulou Group, alongside founders Gilles and Claire Malafosse, as well as partners Pierre-Antoine Capton and Jean-Philippe Cartier.

Loulou: A Unique Culinary Identity with Spectacular Locations

Heir to a family know-how passed down through generations of Parisian restaurateurs, Loulou has managed to create iconic venues at stunning destinations in just a few years: in Paris at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, in Ramatuelle on the beautiful Pampelonne beach, and in Roquebrune Cap-Martin in one of the most legendary spots on the Riviera.

In a decade, its founders have worked diligently to develop a distinctive brand that embodies authenticity, refinement, and a relaxed elegance infused with an extra soul.

Barrière: A Century-Old French Family Legacy

Founded in 1912 by François André, Barrière is synonymous with luxury hospitality and leisure. Joy Desseigne-Barrière and Alexandre Barrière represent the fourth generation of owners of this French family group, which they aim to preserve and expand both in France and internationally.

A major player in the restaurant industry, Barrière considers its 150 bars and restaurants a key asset in its development strategy, as evidenced by the openings of its flagship brand Fouquet’s—brasserie established in 1899 by Louis Fouquet at the corner of the Champs-Élysées and Avenue George V—in New York, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. The Group focuses on strong brands that can enhance its development momentum.

Reinventing the Codes of High-End Dining Together

The development strategy for both entities begins now with an ambitious goal to strengthen their respective positions in the high-end dining market.

With Loulou, the Barrière Group enriches its portfolio with spectacular venues. Loulou Group can now rely on a company with recognized expertise, which has cultivated a desire to satisfy clientele always seeking unforgettable experiences for over a century. Loulou Group will have all the tools at its disposal to continue inventing new codes for dining in a boldly innovative spirit. To this end, the Barrière Group renews its confidence in the management team that will work on the development of the Loulou brand and its exceptional venue offerings.

Loulou is excited to align with the Barrière Group. “I have always worked in traditional hospitality. The nature of our industry is evolving, with increasing demands, changing consumer habits, and heightened competition. Today, I look forward to joining the new dynamic of the Barrière Group and their teams to implement a thoughtful development strategy, continuing to enjoy the creation of unique and respectful venues while sharing our passion for the industry,” shares Gilles Malafosse.

Joy Desseigne-Barrière and Alexandre Barrière, co-presidents of the Barrière Group, emphasize: “Loulou Group fits into Barrière Group’s strategy to accelerate its development, particularly through strong brands. This partnership represents a respectful union of the identities of our two houses and the expertise that underpins the success and authenticity of our venues. Gilles and Claire Malafosse and their teams have our full confidence to lead the development of the Loulou brand and its restaurants alongside the current Loulou teams.”

This merger will strengthen the Loulou brand, its authenticity, and its know-how in the face of increasingly standardized concepts.

A new Loulou will already open in Courchevel on December 6, at the heart of the Hôtel Barrière Les Neiges, a palace nestled at 1850 meters altitude, at the foot of the slopes. In a Savoyard ambiance custom-designed by architect Corinne Sachot, guests will be able to enjoy classic Loulou dishes reimagined with a Piedmontese twist.