photo courtesy of Olivia Garden
It is with profound sadness that Olivia Garden announces the passing of its founder, Jean Rennette, who passed away on January 3, 2025 at the age of 82. Born in Liège, Belgium in 1942, Jean’s visionary spirit transformed the salon professional industry and laid the foundation for one of the most respected brands in professional and consumer hair care.
Jean, alongside his wife Micheline, co-founded Olivia Garden in 1967 in Liège, Belgium. The company was built on the principles of providing hairdressers with high-quality, innovative, beautiful and cutting-edge salon tools. This commitment to excellence and creativity propelled Olivia Garden from a local family business to a global leader.
Jean and Micheline Rennette
photo courtesy of Olivia Garden
Under Jean’s guidance, Olivia Garden earned a reputation as a market leader, securing more than 55 patents for its groundbreaking products. From silent blow dryers to brushes with ceramic and ionic technologies and completely vented round and paddle brushes, Jean’s innovations continue to shape the beauty industry today. Additionally, Jean’s legacy extends beyond the products he pioneered; his passion and leadership inspired countless individuals in Olivia Garden’s Belgium and United States offices, as well as distributor partners and salon teams across the globe.
Today, Jean’s children, Pierre Rennette and Anne (Rennette) Maza, who serve as Olivia Garden’s current co-owners, are committed to carrying forward his vision.
“Our father’s creativity, passion and dedication shaped this organization,” said Anne Maza. “We will honor his memory with the continuation of innovation and support for the professionals who have trusted our brands for over 55 years.”
Jean Rennette and the Olivia Garden team celebrated the brand’s 50th anniversary in 2017.
photo courtesy of Olivia Garden
As the Olivia Garden team mourns the loss of its founder, they remain united in celebrating Jean Rennette’s extraordinary contributions and his lasting influence on the professional salon industry. The thoughts and condolences of the entire Olivia Garden community are with this family, friends and colleagues during this time of loss.
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