"We are not considering mergers and we are not selling brands", says the Stellantis chairman categorically, John Elkann, referring to the future of the group, putting an end to the unsubstantiated rumours from the Paris Motor Show.
In particular, at the Paris Motor Show, John Elkann, Chairman of Stellantis, explained that the group has no intention of participating in the consolidation of the automotive industry through mergers or acquisitions of other manufacturers: "We are really focused on our business activities, at the level of our main shareholders, our board of directors, our CEO and our management team, and not on the potential distractions created by consolidation operations, whatever they may be," Elkann explained in an interview with Afp. "We, as Stellantis, believe that we have a competitive dimension. And Stellantis has already been born out of several consolidations."
The trademarks remain
Thus, there are no acquisitions or mergers on the horizon, but no sale of brands either. In fact, the Stellantis chairman echoes the line of CEO Carlos Tavares: 'We are not ready for consolidations, but neither are we ready for divestments. It is not the right time". Regarding the recent management reshuffle, Elkann explained that the change in the top line was desired by Tavares himself and "shows that Stellantis has very capable people inside. Carlos' work in leadership over the past four years has continually promoted the organization and provided opportunities for deserving people," the grandson of lawyer Agnelli continued, stressing that "the support for Carlos from the board and key shareholders has never been questioned." However, the reshuffle foresees Tavares' own departure at the beginning of 2026: "This decision was a goal he had set himself", explained Elkann, according to whom the process of finding a successor to the CEO "will look more inward than outward". Finally, when asked about the possible appointment of an American for a geographic rotation authority, the chairman was adamant: "If we start to reflect on criteria like these, we will end up with options that are not necessarily the best for our company."
