Anthony Chalhoub, the co-founder of Chalhoub Group, a leading distributor and retailer of luxury brands in the Middle East region, died in Paris on Monday at the age of 63 after battling cancer for several years, said a statement from the company.

Chalhoub joined the company, founded by his parents, Michel and Widad, 43 years ago when it had only 30 employees and has been instrumental in the evolution and the development of the group.

Today, the Chalhoub Group has become a major player in the beauty, fashion and gift sectors regionally and an expert in retail, distribution and marketing services based in Dubai.

"Chalhoub was an exceptional fearless leader, driven by his passion and determination. He was mindful of maintaining the image of the brands entrusted to the group," said the company in its tribute to the CEO.

"Chalhoub always made sure that the Group conducteeds a responsible business while giving back to the communities. His engagement and commitment to sustainability were outstanding as he was devoted to make this world a better place, it stated.

Aware of the rise of travel retail opportunities he secured concessions and played a major role in the opening of Kuwait airport duty free.

As a co-founding member of the MEDFA (Middle East Duty Free Association), he served four years as its Vice-President and four years as President and remained an active member of the board.

He was a French Overseas Trade Counsellor since 1991, passionate about the French culture and its know-how.

He had won several state honours such as Knight of the Order of Malta and a Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, an official honour awarded by the French government.

He has also been decorated Knight of the Légion d’honneur for his distinguished economic and cultural achievements and his active role particularly during the Gulf invasion, where he facilitated the communication between Kuwait and France.

Paying glowing tributes to its co-founder, the company said: "With his humanitarian spirit, humbleness, honesty, compassion, kindness and his sense of humor, Chalhoub touched so many hearts. Those who have been fortunate enough to know him have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor."

"He leaves us with great memories and the dreams he kept alive. We will continue to live by his legacy and the values he embodied. Our thoughts go out to his wife Edith, his children Aurelia and Michel, his parents Michel and Widad and brother Patrick. May his soul rest in peace," the statement added.

With a growing workforce of more than 12,000 people, in 14 countries, as well as operating over 600 retail stores, the group is moving fast from a traditional distributor and retailer for luxury in the Middle East to a hybrid retailer bringing luxury experiences to the fingertips of customers everywhere, it added.-TradeArabia News Service