Dior and Saint Laurent showcase the challenges that lie ahead for the keepers of Virgil Abloh’s legacy.

Executives at New Guards Group and LVMH reveal exclusively to BoF the ‘endless’ pipeline the designer left behind and their plans to harness his legacy to build a multi-billion-dollar brand.

A swift management overhaul, ‘shock and awe’ marketing and new products have contributed to strong momentum since the group acquired the jeweller in January, writes Luca Solca.

The French megabrand was hit hard by the pandemic. But Chief Executive Michael Burke led Louis Vuitton to a healthy rebound by engaging local clients and driving sales online. Now, the executive is calling for a return to the original values of luxury.

Consumers are rethinking how much they buy, while brands are realising that simply stocking more products does not drive better financial results. Winning companies must reduce complexity and inventory levels by taking a more focused and responsive approach to their assortment.

In the third quarter, Gucci underperformed LVMH’s fashion and leather goods division as well as Kering stablemates like Saint Laurent, underscoring the growing importance of local customers in the age of Covid-19.

The worst quarter in the history of the modern luxury business was also its best ever for digital sales.

Chief Executive Michael Burke tells BoF about the effect of the pandemic shutdown on the business and the beginning of a return to normal in China.