Lifetime Achievement Award – The Taché Brothers
On the 26th of November 2024, Joseph, Isaac and Robert Taché were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Facets Event in Antwerp, Belgium. To honour their legacy, we spoke to the brothers to dive a bit deeper into their shared experiences at Groupe Taché.
Which moments or achievements in your career do you believe truly defined your legacy and led to this recognition?
From the outset, there was a shared vision for the company: to build a business rooted in quality, trust and lasting relationships. Guided by their father, a family association was founded that was dedicated to distributing polished diamonds. The real legacy and heritage were established when all three brothers integrated seamlessly into the firm, each a leader in his own field.
Isaac (Zouki) recalls how he started travelling in post-war Europe by first developing a client network in Germany, while Joseph (Soussou) focused on the Italian and Austrian markets. These were demanding years with extensive travel, but they forged strong relationships that withstood the test of time and have endured for generations.
A pivotal moment in Zouki’s career came at the age of 25, when he started making regular trips to the United States to purchase brilliants. This strategic initiative positioned the company as a key player in the European market, diversified its supply chain and enhanced its expertise.
Was there a particular challenge or turning point that shaped your journey and made you who you are today?
For Roby, the answer is clear — there was a shift in direction within the company about 15 years ago when Taché began building client relationships with major brands.
Zouki’s answer is more personal. He recalls the passing of his father, the guiding force of the company, as not only a personal challenge but also a professional one. It taught him to manage the company’s growth while staying true to its core values.
“I learned that a family business can only thrive by surrounding itself with competent and professional individuals, regardless of family ties.”
— Zouki Taché
How do you hope your contributions will inspire future generations in this field or within the family?
For Roby, the importance lies in working harmoniously within a family, and he hopes the next generations will continue in the same spirit as leadership transitions over time.
Zouki hopes that his journey demonstrates that with perseverance, a clear vision and strong relationships, it is possible to build something lasting. He also believes that success does not necessarily need to come from family dynasties — young talents with skills and a fresh, modern outlook should be given the opportunity to help grow the business.
It is important to take initiative and dare to innovate while always assessing risk rationally. Financial prudence must remain a priority.
After a joint working experience within Groupe Taché of over 100 years, the three brothers align on one key principle: integrity and respect are essential in building trust and lasting relationships.
If you could go back in time and give advice to your younger self at the start of your career, what would it be?
Zouki Taché has very clear advice for his 18-year-old self: success is not just about hard work — it is also about surrounding yourself with like-minded people and collaborating with skilled and visionary individuals. A team with the right members is crucial to the growth and sustainability of a business.
He also reminds his younger self not to fear failure, as lessons learned from setbacks can strengthen future successes. Once again, Zouki underscores the importance of keeping a close eye on finances, especially bank debt.
What does receiving this Lifetime Achievement Award mean to you personally, and how do you see it as a reflection of your life’s work?
The brothers are deeply humbled and honoured to receive this award, recognising that it reflects the accomplishments of an entire team.
“Receiving this award is an immense honor—not just for my work but also for the sacrifices and consistent efforts throughout my life. It’s a tribute to my father, who was my source of inspiration, to my brothers with whom I shared this journey and to everyone who contributed to our success.
To me, this award symbolizes the celebration of the values that have guided me: perseverance, integrity and excellence. It marks an important milestone—a moment to reflect on the importance of passing these values on to future generations.”
— Zouki Taché