LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton,the world's leading high quality products group,recorded revenue of€19.9 billion for the first nine months of 2012,an increase of 22%on the comparable period in 2011.After taking into account the consolidation of Bulgari,as of 30 June 2011,and a positive currency impact,organic revenue grew by 10%.
The Group recorded a 15%rise in revenue for the third quarter.Organic revenue growth was 6%,a solid result in the current economic environment,particularly when compared to the strong performance in the same period of 2011.
The US market continued to demonstrate momentum.In spite of a challenging economic environment,Europe and Asia also contributed to the third quarter performance.Louis Vuitton continues to gain market share throughout the world.
The Fashion&Leather Goods business group recorded organic revenue growth of 8%for the first nine months of the year.Louis Vuitton reported a double-digit rise in revenue,driven by the powerful appeal of its products and the unique experience offered to all clients at its stores,and further reinforcing its advance on the global market.
The Shanghai opening of the first Maison Louis Vuitton in China and the launch of a number of collections in collaboration with the artist Yayoi Kusama marked some of the high points of the quarter.Celine achieved remarkably strong performance across all its markets and product ranges.Fendi undertook a targeted expansion of its distribution network.All other fashion brands continued to show improved performance.
The Selective Retailing business group achieved organic revenue growth of 14%for the first nine months of 2012.DFS continued to expand its presence in Hong Kong with the opening of its third Galleria in the city centre and establishing three new concessions at the airport which will be operational at the year-end.
Sephora produced a remarkably strong performance,winning market share across all regions of the world.Its growth momentum remains strong with,notably,significant progress being made in China and Russia and the considerable success of its first store opening in Brazil.On-line sales in France and the United States saw particularly strong gains.
Outlook
Despite the background of an economic slowdown in Europe,LVMH remains confident in its outlook for 2012.The Group will continue to pursue its proactive strategy centered on innovation and targeted geographic expansion in the most promising markets.LVMH will rely on the power of its brands and the talent of its teams to further extend,in 2012,its global leadership position in luxury products.
