This chapter explores the analysis section of the podcast episode, discussing the power of luxury brands in achieving higher profits compared to competitors. It delves into the concept of scale economies at the holding company level, the significance of global product launches and instant visibility, and the advantage of having higher investment and financial firepower. The chapter also explores the use of celebrities in luxury advertising and the recognition of luxury conglomerates in the broader world.
We tell the full history of LVMH, and how Bernard Arnault turned a $15m investment in a bankrupt French textile company into the world’s largest individual fortune. It’s a story that’s equal parts Berkshire Hathaway, Steve Jobs and Barbarians at the Gate… and wholly under-appreciated for the genius business model innovations that enabled it. Whatever industry you operate or invest in, there’s so much to be learned from Bernard and LVMH’s complete reshaping of the luxury sector over the past three and a half decades. And oh yeah, it also involves Nazi spies, Italian family murders, Rupert Murdoch, Rihanna becoming a billionaire, Jay-Z’s champagne feuds and Beyoncé wearing a 128 carat diamond. Tune in! :)
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