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Lululemon Faces Founder Proxy War

New York Times Business •
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Lululemon navigates turbulent waters as billionaire founder Chip Wilson wages a proxy battle against the board following CEO Calvin McDonald's resignation. Interim co-CEOs Meghan Frank and Andre Maestrini now oversee the struggling $10 billion business while attempting to block out corporate drama and refocus on operations amid mounting pressure.

Sales have declined as competitors Alo Yoga and Vuori gain market share, while fashion trends shift toward looser styles than Lululemon's signature form-fitting designs. The brand faces intensified competition from cheaper duplicates and changing consumer preferences that have eroded its once-dominant position in the athletic apparel market.

Frank and Maestrini implement turnaround strategies including store improvements, cost savings, and accelerated product development. Meanwhile, Wilson accuses directors of acting in their own interest, and activist investor Elliott Management pushes for a permanent CEO replacement, creating instability during a critical transition period that could reshape the company's leadership structure.