#USA #New York #Wacoal America #James Wheatley #Mitchell Kauffman

Wacoal America: A New Chapter in Leadership

On April 9, 2026, Wacoal America made headlines with the announcement of a significant leadership transition. Mitchell Kauffman, who has served as CEO for six years, has decided to retire, effective immediately. Kauffman's decision marks the end of a notable 40-year career in the intimate apparel industry, during which he has contributed significantly to the growth and reputation of Wacoal America.

A Legacy of Excellence

Kauffman joined Wacoal America in 2016, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to the core values that the brand has upheld since its inception in Japan in 1947. Wacoal has long been recognized as a leading name in women's intimate apparel, and under Kauffman’s guidance, the company strengthened its position in the market by emphasizing fit, quality, and comfort.

Kauffman reflected on his tenure, stating, "During my 40 years in the Intimate Apparel industry, I had the opportunity to watch the birth and growth of Wacoal in the US from the outside, and as a competitor, I genuinely envied the foundational principles the company was built on—Quality, Fit, and Service." These principles remain vital as the company navigates a rapidly changing retail landscape.

Kauffman's leadership has not only focused on product quality, but he has also been a steward of a culture of mutual trust within the organization. This culture, rooted in the company's core values, is something he considers a significant part of Wacoal's identity, and he believes it will continue to thrive under new leadership.

Welcoming James Wheatley

Taking over from Kauffman is James Wheatley, who previously served as Wacoal America’s President for the last year. Wheatley brings nearly four decades of retail and intimate apparel experience to his new role. A University of Kentucky graduate with a degree in Business Management, Wheatley’s background includes significant roles at JCPenney, Vanity Fair, and Maidenform, shaping him into a capable leader ready to take Wacoal America into its next chapter.

"This is a brand women have turned to for fit, quality, innovation, and comfort for decades," Wheatley said. "As we enter this period of transformation in the retail sector, I view this as a remarkable opportunity to lead Wacoal America while honoring the rich legacy established by my predecessors."

Wheatley will lead the brand during a time of pivotal growth. Wacoal America recently completed its acquisition of Glamorise, expanding its product portfolio and market reach. Also, new retail locations have been opened in Columbus, Ohio, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, and plans for further expansion are on the horizon.

The Future of Wacoal America

In addition to expansion efforts, Wacoal is launching a redesigned website aimed at evolving the brand to meet the needs of modern women. This initiative emphasizes the brand's commitment to empowering women across different life stages and enhancing their experiences in finding the perfect fit.

As Wacoal America moves forward, both Kauffman and Wheatley express confidence in the leadership team and the company’s strategic direction. Kauffman will remain onboard as an advisor through the transition period, ensuring continuity and support for new initiatives.

In closing, Wacoal America not only aims to lead in the intimate apparel sector but to maintain its reputable legacy as a brand founded on trust. With seasoned leaders at the helm, the company is poised for continued innovation, ensuring women feel their best through their high-quality intimates.

For more information about Wacoal's latest updates, visit www.wacoal-america.com and follow them on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.