Sales: $8.1 billion

Key Personnel: Bernard Arnault, chairman and chief executive office; Antonio Belloni, group managing director; Nicolas Bazire, development and acquisitions; Michael Burke, strategic advisor to the chairman; Chantal Gaemperle, human resources and synergies; Jean-Jacques Guinoy, finance; Chris de Lapuente, selective retailing; Stéphane Rinderknech, LVMH hospitality excellence and beauty; Jérôme Sibille, general administration and legal
affairs; Jean-Baptiste Voisin, strategy

Major Products: Perfumes and cosmetics. Brands include Guerlain, Acqua Di Parma, Parfums Christian Dior, Givenchy Parfums, Perfumes Loewe, Kenzo Parfums, Benefit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Fresh KVD Beauty, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Marc Jacobs Beauty, Cha Ling, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Officine Universelle Buly. LVMH also owns Sephora

New Products: Christian Dior J’Adore Parfum d’Eau, La Créme skin care, Terracotta liquid foundation; Givenchy Gentleman Society and Aqua Allegoria Forte fragrances; Benefit Porefessional skin care, Fresh Tea Elixir, Gimme Brow+ volumizing pencil, Wanderful World powder blushes; Maison Francis Kurkdjian 724 fragrance; Acqua di Parma Colonia fragrance; Make Up For Ever HD Skin; Fenty Butta Drop shimmering whipped oil body cream and Hella Thicc mascara, Summatime Collection (limited edition)

Comments: LVMH is one of the world’s biggest luxury houses, with interests in fashion, wines and liquor, and, of course, beauty. Despite the war in Ukraine, recession fears and inflation realities, corporate sales soared 23% last year. Sales of cosmetics and fragrances increased, too, but at slower rate of about 17%. By region, sales in Asia (excluding Japan) accounted for 35% of sales; followed by Europe (excluding France), 20%; the US, 19%; other markets, 12%; France, 9% and Japan, 5%.

Beauty sales got a boost from a rebound in makeup sales and the continued success of its best-known fragrances. The one dark spot? Skin care sales in China declined due to the covid-19 lockdown.

Taking a closer look, by brand, Christian Dior sales rose throughout the world, led by gains in the US, South Korea, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. LVMH calls Sauvage, “the world’s best-selling fragrance across all categories.”

Guerlain sales continued to grow, led by fragrance gains. Aqua Allegoria Forte was a popular launch. In makeup, NPD success stories included Gimme Brow+ volumizing pencil and Wanderful World powder blushes. Fresh got a lift from the launch of Tea Elixir, a serum said to boost skin’s resilience to stressors.

Parfums Givenchy’s sales rose on the strength of existing fragrances and the launch of Gentlemen Réserve Privée, a collaboration with Glennmorangie whiskey.

Fenty Beauty sales doubled via expanded distribution and new product launches like Butta Drop shimmering whipped oil body cream

Clearly, 2022 was a great year for LVMH and its chairman, Bernard Arnault. According to Forbes, the LVMH chairman was the world’s richest man last year. An estimated wealth of $190.7 billion put Arnault ahead of Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates. With an empire like that, it’s no wonder that LVMH topped the list as the most attractive employer among students at business schools in France.

In Q1 2023, corporate sales rose 17% to €21 billion. The company credited gains in Europe and the US, and strong momentum in Japan. At the same time, sales in China were on the rebound. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 11% to €2.115 billion. Gains were led by Christian Dior fragrances such as Sauvage, Miss Dior and J’Adore. Sales rose for makeup and skincare, too. During the period, the division supported myriad projects, big (protecting sperm whales) and small (protecting bees).

In April, Fenty Beauty was named the No. 3 most popular beauty brand based on searches by Hey Goldie. Topping the chart was Huda Beauty, followed by Anastasia Beauty.

In June, the Palace of Versailles opened Le Jardin du Parfumeur—the Perfumer’s Garden—to the public. The garden contains hundreds of fragrant plants, recreating the spirit of the Trianon in the 17th century and enabling visitors to learn about the importance of fragrances at the royal court. The project was supported by LVMH’s Francis Kurkdjian business.

Fenty Beauty’s limited edition makeup products for Summer 2023 include the Match Stix Color-Adaptive Cheek + Lip Stick.

Sales: $7.8 billion

The rebound in the luxury goods market was very good to LVMH. Corporate sales soared nearly 44% last year to almost $76 billion. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics jumped nearly 26%. By region, Asia (excluding Japan) accounted for 42% of sales. That was well ahead of Europe (excluding France) at 19% and the US at 16%. Other markets accounted for 10% of sales, followed by France, 9% and Japan, 4%.

Toast’d Swirl Bronze Shimmer Powder is a limited edition
Fenty Beauty product rolled out during summer 2022

Nearly every House benefitted from the return of travel. Parfums Christian Dior made a strong recovery, especially in Asia, the US and the Middle East. Sales rebounded at Parfums Givenchy, too. Guerlain sales rose on the strength of gains in China. Benefit’s sales were boosted by the launch of They’re Real Magnet mascara. Demand for Créme Ancienne provided a lift to Fresh skin care.

In October, LVMH acquired Officine Universelle Buly. Prior to the purchase, LVMH had been a minority investor via its Luxury Ventures fund. Buly offers a range of perfumes, face and body care products.

For the first quarter of 2022, corporate sales rose 29%. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 23%. The company credited strong growth of perfumes and makeup, robust progress in the US and a rebound in Europe. More specifically, Christian Dior gained market share on the strength of fine fragrances like Sauvage, Miss Dior and J’Adore, and makeup. Guerlain successfully rolled out its Aqua and l’Art et la Matière. Its Abeille Royale skincare line also contributed to the performance of the Maison. Parfums Givenchy unveiled its new EDT Fraîche Irresistible. Maison Francis Kurkdjian continued to see rapid growth.

In May, Guerlain teamed up with photographer and environmental activist Yann Arthus-Betrand to launch Reaverse, a non fungible token (NFT) program. In 2021, Guerlain auctioned NFTs to restore land in the Millière Valley. Also in May, specifically on World Bee Day (May 20) Guerlain announced its second global bee conservation program. The program raised €1million in three days.

Sales: $5.9 billion

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna is still selling well with lipgloss and other cosmetics.

When the global economy shuts down, high fashion and jewelry becomes an afterthought for all but the wealthiest consumers. No wonder then that LVMH, the world’s largest luxury house, reported a 17% decline in sales last year. The cosmetics and fragrance division’s results were even worse, as sales fell 22%. Still, LVMH said the division showed good resilience, with growth in skin care and online sales, particularly in Asia. In its annual report, the company took a shot at competitors, noting “unlike certain competitors, (LVMH) limited promotions and refused to sell indirectly to the Chinese market, which presents major risks to medium term desirability for brands that follow that route.”

By region, Asia, excluding Japan, accounted for 45% of sales and Europe, excluding France, represented 18% of sales. Elsewhere, sales broke out like this: US, 14%; France and other markets, 9% each; and Japan, 5%.

The new year opened with LVMH completing its acquisition of Tiffany, the iconic US jeweler. Coty owns the cosmetics and fragrance license for Tiffany.

This year, Christian Dior is focused on fragrances, while makeup gets a makeover. In skin care, Dior is focused on China. Guerlain is expanding internationally, especially in China, Japan, the Middle East and travel retail.

For the three months, ended March 31, corporate sales rose 32%, but the company noted that all divisions are still negatively impacted by restrictions on international travel. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 12%. LVMH’s leading beauty brands continued to be selective in their distribution and limit promotion. All of them benefited from the continued growth in online sales from local customers, which offset the impact of the suspension of international travel and the closure of many points of sale.

When the pandemic hit, LVMH was one of the first companies to dedicate its manufacturing operations to hand sanitizer production. In June, the company dedicated funds to help its employees. The LVMH Heart Fund is a global emergency and support fund for its 150,000 employees. Initial endowment was about $33 million.

Sales: $7.6 billion for cosmetics and fragrances.
Corporate sales: $60.1 billion

LVMH was the first beauty company to get into the hand sanitizer business when COVID-19 struck. On March 15, the company shifted to manufacturing hand sanitizer. A week later, LVMH spent $6 million to supply 40 million surgical and FFP2 masks to French citizens. Just last month LVMH donated 100,000 tubes of hand sanitizer gel to help Secours Populaire Français organize “Happy Vacation Days” for vulnerable families

Last year, LVMH was one of the first to respond when Notre-Dame de Paris went up in flames. The company donated €200 million to its restoration fund.

In an ongoing project that began in 2013, LVMH’s LIFE sustainability initiative has four key goals: improve the environmental performance of all products; best practice applied in 70% of supply chains, to reach 100% in 2025; 25% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions attributable to energy consumption; and all manufacturing, administrative and retail sites to achieve at least a 10% improvement in key environmental performance measures.

The commitments came during and following an exceptional year for LVMH. Corporate sales increased 15% and profits posted double-digit gains, too. Cosmetic and fragrance sales rose 9% last year, with Asia, excluding Japan, accounting for 40% of sales. Europe, excluding France, was next at 20%; followed by the US (15%), France and Other Markets (10% each), and Japan, 5%. The number of stores rose 20% to 426, but profit increased just 1%.

Christian Dior continued to grow much faster than the overall fragrance and cosmetics market, according to LVMH. Iconic perfumes like J’adore, Miss Dior and Sauvage led the way, but makeup and skin care contributed as well. One of the 2020 goals is to develop Parfums Christian Dior in harmony with couture. Guerlain’s sales rose on the strength of Abeille Royale skin care and Rouge G makeup. Similarly, Parfums Givenchy’s results were lifted by makeup sales and L’Interdit perfume. Finally, Fresh, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna and Acqua di Parma sales all grew rapidly.

Last year, Guerlain launched Bee Respect, its transparency and traceability platform. Originally an in-house tool to encourage collaborative eco-design, Bee Respect is a digital platform that enables users to learn more about raw materials, suppliers, manufacturing sites and carbon footprint all the way to the point of sale.

For the first quarter of 2020, corporate sales fell 15%, and perfumes and cosmetics sales fell 18%, but online sales were brisk.

Last month, Kendo, the beauty incubator inside LVMH, laid off 10% of its staff. Kendo is the force behind many of the brands sold at Sephora. A source told Women’s Wear Daily that approximately 50 employees were impacted.

“In light of the COVID-19 health crisis and the resulting impact on business, Kendo made the difficult decision to reduce the size of certain teams. We worked hard to keep the reductions as limited as possible,” a Kendo spokeswoman told WWD.

In other Kendo news, Kat Von D Beauty founder Kat Von D left the brand to focus on other artistic endeavors (namely, her vegan shoe line and upcoming album). The move makes Kendo the sole owner and force behind the beauty line. Effective immediately, the brand will now be called KVD Vegan Beauty.

The brand will continue offering its current lineup, as well as creating new vegan and cruelty-free makeup for consumers. The development of the KVD Vegan Beauty brand and its products has been the result of a 12-year partnership between Kat Von D and Kendo.

“I want to thank Kat for helping to change the beauty industry with us,” stated David Suliteanu, CEO of Kendo. “Kendo, along with our global retail partner, Sephora, look forward to the continued growth of KVD Vegan Beauty under Kendo’s leadership, ownership and direction. We are fully positioned to continue the brand’s growth and development in both product and marketing. We have developed a very strong product pipeline for 2020 and beyond. The same Kendo team that made history with KVD Vegan Beauty is ready to do it again.”

KVD Vegan Beauty has more than 250 products in nearly every beauty category. It is sold globally, in every major market, in 36 countries around the world, primarily at Sephora and kvdveganbeauty.com.

Sales: $7.1 billion for perfumes and cosmetics.
Corporate sales: $55.3 billion.

Corporate and personal care sales both rose 10% last year. The company credited strong growth for its flagship brands and Asia for the gains, but LVMH said all product categories contributed to growth.

Parfums Christian Dior had another excellent year and gained market share due to the vitality of its iconic fragrances as well as its new products. J’adore sales got a lift from a new marketing campaign and Miss Dior became a leader in Asia. Men’s fragrance Sauvage, which had an eau de parfum version added to its range, recorded exceptional growth. The launch of Joy by Dior, embodied by actress Jennifer Lawrence, added a fresh scent to the Dior olfactory landscape. Makeup sales rose, due in part to strong performances in the lip cosmetics segment, in particular the new Ultra Rouge lipstick, and a substantial acceleration in foundation fueled by new additions to the Forever range and the launch of the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation. Skin care was boosted by strong momentum in Asia and by the vitality and innovation of the prestige range’s Micro-Huile de Rose and Micro-Sérum de Rose. Capture Youth, launched in January 2018, won over customers in their 30s with its six targeted serums.

Guerlain perfumes excelled, with the expansion of Mon Guerlain and the international rollout of Guerlain Parfumeur boutiques. Momentum in makeup was driven by the highly successful, customizable Rouge G. In skin care, Guerlain’s results were fueled by strong growth in its Orchidée Impériale and Abeille Royale lines. As part of its “In the Name of Beauty” commitment to sustainability, Guerlain continued to scale up its initiatives to preserve biodiversity, particularly to protect bees. During LVMH’s Journées Particulières open-house event, Guerlain celebrated its 190th anniversary with the public by unveiling an exceptional setting at 68 Champs-Élysées, its iconic address.

Growth accelerated at Parfums Givenchy, with perfume doing very well in Europe and strong gains from makeup in Asia, according to the company. The success of its new women’s fragrance, L’Interdit, incarnated by actress Rooney Mara, helped the brand gain market share. Makeup sales were particularly strong in the lip cosmetics and foundation segments.

Kenzo Parfums continued to roll out Kenzo World and revisited its iconic Flower by Kenzo line with a new marketing campaign filmed in the streets of San Francisco. With the highly successful launch of Badgal Bang!, Benefit became the global market leader in mascara, according to LVMH. The brand also consolidated its lead in the brow segment with the success of Brow Contour, a 4-in-1 brow pencil. Make Up For Ever continued its international expansion, thanks to gains in online sales.

Fresh achieved strong growth, particularly in Asia, with the success of its Rose and Black Tea skin care lines, including the new Black Tea Kombucha age-delay facial essence. Acqua di Parma saw strong growth in its Colonia lines, thanks to Colonia Pura in particular, while the Chinotto di Liguria fragrance rounded out the Blu Mediterraneo range. For its first full year of activity, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna confirmed its worldwide success with a very strong digital presence and a robust innovation program in the foundation and lip cosmetics segment with the Mattemoiselle lipstick. Marc Jacobs Beauty’s momentum was driven by the launch of its new Shameless liquid foundation. Parfums Loewe launched the women’s version of its Solo Loewe line. Maison Francis Kurkdjian enjoyed very strong growth in its iconic Baccarat Rouge 540 fragrance and continued to showcase its exceptional expertise in artisanal perfume-making.

This year, LVMH insists that the perfumes and cosmetics business group will draw on the strength of its well-differentiated brand portfolio to win new market share. Its brands will focus on gaining innovative momentum, retail quality and digital marketing. Parfums Christian Dior will innovate in its three product categories. In perfume, the brand will continue to showcase its global pillars, with strong marketing support in conjunction with couture, and will accelerate the rollout of its Maison Christian Dior boutique concept as well as its initiatives to build a unique customer experience around perfume, both in-store and online. Drawing on the expertise of professional makeup artists and the brand’s couture spirit, makeup will be the focus of an extensive innovation plan, backed by a improved digital activation strategy. Dior skin care, which aims to accelerate the brand’s growth in the premium and anti-aging segments, will be boosted by momentum in Asia. Guerlain will continue rolling out its Guerlain Parfumeur boutiques; expand its flagship makeup and skin care ranges; and launch a high-performance, highly natural foundation, in line with its “In the Name of Beauty” commitment to sustainability. A new version of its L’Interdit fragrance and bold innovations in makeup will help speed up growth at Parfums Givenchy. Benefit’s initiatives will focus on brow products, to consolidate its lead in this category, and on conveying its unique positioning, particularly in the digital space. Kenzo will launch a light eau de parfum version of Flower by Kenzo and a new variant of Kenzo World. Parfums Loewe will roll out a new brand identity and Fenty Beauty by Rihanna will continue its international expansion, particularly in Asia.

Lots of plans, but they are working. For the first quarter, corporate sales rose 16% and perfume and cosmetics sales increased 12%. Parfums Christian Dior had a very good quarter, demonstrating the continued vitality of its iconic perfumes and benefiting from the recent launch of its new fragrance Joy. In makeup, the Rouge Dior and Diorskin lines enjoyed a remarkable performance. Guerlain experienced strong growth momentum, notably as a result of the sustained growth of Abeille Royale skin care and Rouge G lipstick. Parfums Givenchy performed very well, driven by its Le Rouge and Prisme Libre makeup ranges. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna continued to grow rapidly.

Last month, Bloomberg announced that LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault became the second-richest man in the world, behind Amazon’s Jeff Bezos. Arnault took Bll Gates’ spot after LVMH stock surged last month, increasing his net worth to $107.6 billion. Gates had held steady as the second-richest person the world for seven years.

Sales: $6.2 billion for cosmetics and fragrances.
Corporate sales: $46.1 billion.

The lust for luxury continues unabated throughout the world. How else can you explain LVMH’s gains year in and year out? The maker of wines, spirits, fashion, leather goods and, of course, cosmetics and fragrances, set another revenue record in 2017, and sales of fragrances and cosmetics increased more than 12%.

Makeup accounted for 47% of sales last year, followed by fragrance (36%) and skin care (17%). By region, Asia (excluding Japan) represented 30% of sales, followed by Europe (excluding France), 24%; US, 17%; other markets, 13%; France, 11% and Japan, 5%.

LVMH said Parfums Christian Dior grew market share in all regions, thanks to the success of Sauvage, as well as long-time best-selling scents, J’adore and Miss Dior. Color cosmetics provided a lift throughout the business; Rouge Dior Liquid and Dior Addict Lip Tattoo lipcolors proved popular as did Diorshow Pump’n’Volume mascara. In skin care, Dior launched Micro-Huile de Rose and Hydra Life formulas, while relaunching Dreamskin and One Essential.

Guerlain spent 2017 improving its position in China and introduced the Guerlain Parfumeur retail concept with five openings. Aiding Guerlain’s gains were strong sales of Orchidée Impériale and Abeille Royale skin care.

Parfums Givenchy had a very good year due to strong makeup sales, due, in part, to the debut of Perfecto and Rouge Interdit lipcolors. Kenzo Parfums rose on the continued international rollout of Kenzo World. Benefit’s sales rose on the strength of its Brow Collection. LVMH said Kat Von D and Marc Jacobs Beauty continued to expand at a fast pace.

Last year, American perfumer and entrepreneur Francis Kurkdijian joined the group, along with another American, recording artist Rihanna, who launched Fenty Beauty to much acclaim.

Q1 2018 corporate sales increased 10%. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics trailed those gains, with 8% growth. Parfums Christian Dior led the way, thanks to the vitality of J’adore, Miss Dior and Sauvage. Guerlain got a lift from the rollout of Mon Guerlain perfume and the continued strength of the Abeille Royale skin care range. Elsewhere, Parfums Givenchy, Benefit and Fresh saw sustained growth, as did Fenty Beauty by Rihanna.

Sales: $5.4 billion

Remember the Great Recession of 2008-09? The LVMH customer certainly doesn’t! While others struggle, this decidedly prestige house of consumer brands continues to post gains year after year. Corporate sales rose 5% in 2016 and sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 6%.

By region, Asia (excluding Japan) accounted for 28% of perfume and cosmetic sales, followed by Europe (ex-France), 25%; US, 18%; France and Other Markets, 12% each; and Japan, 5%. Last year, makeup surpassed fragrance as LVMH’s biggest business, 44% v. 38%, with skin care accounting for 18% of sales.

The biggest internal news in 2016 was the redevelopment of Les Fontaines Parfumées. Located in Grasse, the heart of the fine fragrance industry, the site celebrates the creativity and expertise of local artisans and the exceptional characteristics of raw materials in the Grasse region. By brand, Parfums Christian Dior’s sales rose on the strength of Sauvage, J’adore and Miss Dior. Guerlain benefited from the introduction of a new makeup collection and the rollout of a new version of Intense fragrance. Parfums Givenchy posted big gains in Asia, due to the popularity of Le Rouge Lipstick and Prisme Libre face powder. Benefit Cosmetics had a hit on its hands with the rollout of Brow Collection, while sales of Make Up For Ever increased in every region of the world, according to LVMH.

Consumers’ thirst for luxury goods wasn’t quenched in Q1, as LVMH’s corporate sales rose 15% and all groups contributed to the increase as gains were posted in Asia, Europe and the US. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 12% in the period, driven by the success of Christian Dior fragrances and cosmetics and Guerlain’s launch of Mon Guerlain.
Parfums Givenchy benefited from the development of its lipstick offerings in Asia,  and Kat Von  D, which bowed in Sephora at the start of the year, has found a growing audience. At the close of the quarter, the company announced that Maison Francis Kurkdjian is joining the group. The fragrance house was founded in 2009 by Marc Chaya and Francis Kurkdjian, who continue in their roles as CEO and creative director, respectively. Its collection of fragrances are available in 40 countries.

This fall, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna will debut in the Kenzo division.

Sales: $5.0 billion

Sales of perfumes and cosmetics account for just 13% of LVMH’s corporate sales—fashion and leather goods, in contrast, represent 35%. But whether one is wearing a dress or a fragrance, LVMH is all about luxury and despite global turmoil the group is weathering the storm successfully. Helped along by favorable exchange rates, corporate sales rose 16% to a record €35.7 billion.

The perfumes and cosmetics business posted a 15% gain, with 7% organic growth. Perfumes accounted for 41% of sales, just ahead of makeup (40%). Skin care was a distant No. 3 at 19%.

By region, Asia (ex-Japan) accounted for 29% of sales, followed by Europe (ex-France), 26%; other markets, 15%; US, 14%; France, 12% and Japan, 4%.

Actor Johnny Depp’s marital woes may be in the headlines, but there’s no denying he’s made a great pitchman for Sauvage, a new men’s fragrance that LVMH insists has had unprecedented worldwide success. Sauvage has thrived as a member of Parfums Christian Dior House, where other successful brands include J’adore, Miss Dior and Dior Homme.

Guerlain’s cosmetics and fragrance sales increased, getting a boost from La Petite Robe Noire and L’Homme Idéal. Guerlain’s new skin care and makeup manufacturing site in Chartres is churning out products in France’s Cosmetic Valley.

Sales in every product category rose within the Parfums Givenchy unit. One of the biggest introductions was Live Irrésistible, a women’s scent. Kenzo successfully introduced Flower by Kenzo L’Elixir.

Among its cosmetics holdings, Benefit continued to gain market share in the US, Europe and Middle East while Make Up For Ever successfully introduced two new foundations: Ultra HD and Step 1. Fresh’s rapid expansion in Asia continued and the brand entered Europe with counters at Galeries Lafayette in Paris and Harrods in London.

For the first quarter of 2016, corporate sales rose 4% to more than €8.6 billion. By region, Asia (ex-Japan) accounted for 29% of sales; followed by the US, 25%; Europe (ex-France), 17%; other markets, 12%; France, 9% and Japan, 8%. Perfume and cosmetic sales rose 7% to more than 1.2 billion eurose driven by gains in the US and Europe. LVMH credited the gains to the successful launch of Sauvage fragrance, as well as the popularity J’adore.

Sales: $4.7 billion

For a luxury goods house like LVMH, the market can be segmented into the well-to-do rich who are always on the hunt for something new and exclusive, and the newly-minted rich in emerging markets who are just taking their seat at the banquet. Either way, the wealthy have become more global, making big-ticket purchases online, in-store and on globe-trotting expeditions. Even so, LVMH has successfully followed its customers wherever they travel.

Last year, sales of perfumes and cosmetics rose 5%, compared to a 6% gain for the company overall.  The business group posted significant gains in the US and Asia (particularly China) and was boosted by grand performances from Christian Dior, Benefit and Guerlain. Taking a closer look at LVMH’s CFT business, perfume accounted for 43% of sales, followed by makeup (39%) and skin care (18%). Europe (excluding France) represented 30% of sales, with Asia (excluding Japan) accounting for 26% of sales.
At Parfums Christian Dior, gains were made in every key market, thanks to strong demand for J’adore, Miss Dior and Dior Homme fragrances, as well as higher skin care sales in Asia.

Guerlain’s sales rose, too, and the brand gained share in France and China. The high-profile launch of L’Homme Idéal helped boost the brand in key markets. Parfums Givenchy’s results were helped along by the debut of Gentlemen Only and Dahlia Divin fragrances, while Kenzo Parfums saw gains from the introduction of Jeu d’Amour. Benefit maintained its No. 1 spot in the UK makeup market and Make Up For Ever marked its 30th anniversary.

Things got off to an even better start in 2015, as perfume and fragrance sales surged 6% to pass the €1 billion mark. Christian Dior continued to find new fans thanks to the popularity of its J’adore and Miss Dior fragrances, as well as higher demand for color cosmetics. Meanwhile, Guerlain continued to roll out L’Homme Ideal and inaugurated its new production facility in Chartres.

Sales: $5.0 billion

Sales cosmetics and fragrances rose nearly 3% last year. Perfumes accounted for 45% of sales (down from 48% in 2012), followed by cosmetics (37%) and skin care products (18%). By region, rest of Europe represented 32% of sales, followed by rest of Asia (24%), other markets (14%), France (13%), US (12%) and Japan (5%).

Some of the biggest beauty highlights of 2013 had less to do with product and more to do with place. First, there was the opening of 68 Champs-Élysées, a beauty boutique offering customized skin care in the heart of Paris. Outside the City of Light, the LVMH Group opened its new perfumes and cosmetics research center in Saint-Jean-de-Braye. The 18,000 square-meter facility is home to 250 researchers working for Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy and Fresh. More than 20 fields of study are conducted at the site.

Corporate sales rose nearly 4% last year to almost $40 billion, with perfumes and cosmetics contributing 13% to the total.
For the first quarter of 2014, corporate sales once again increased 4% to $9.8 billion. Sales of perfumes and cosmetics increased 1% to nearly $1.3 billion. Christian Dior led the way, on demand for its J’adore and Miss Dior fragrances. Also providing a lift was Guerlain’s Asian roll out of Abeille Royale skin care.

LVMH’s business is beautiful in the eyes of business school students, too. For the ninth consecutive year, LVMH topped the Universum France’s ranking of the most attractive employers in a survey of students at France’s top business schools. More than 34,000 students from 112 higher education institutions responded to this year’s survey.

“We are proud to receive this further expression of confidence and we are delighted that the exciting career prospects and entrepreneurial spirit of our 65-plus Houses around the world are widely recognized,” said Chantal Gaemperle, group executive vice president, human resources and synergies. “Our talent development policy is founded on our culture of mobility across jobs and countries, combined with ambitious training programs specially designed to meet the distinctive needs of our different métiers.”

Sales: $4.7 billion

If there’s any question that luxury is back, look no further than LVMH’s stellar results. The champagne and cognac maker reported that corporate sales jumped nearly 19% last year to more than $37 billion, and results within the perfumes and cosmetics business were something to celebrate too, as sales rose 13%.

Chairman Bernard Arnault acknowledged that 2012 was a remarkable year, “especially in the context of the economic slowdown in Europe.”

By product category, perfume accounted for 48% of sales, followed by cosmetics (35%) and skin care 17%). By region, Europe (excluding France) accounts for 33% of sales; followed by Asia (excluding Japan), 22%; other markets, 14%; France, 13%; US, 12% and Japan, 6%.

Organic sales rose 8% in 2012. Christian Dior sales were led by Miss Dior and J’adore. Guerlain sales gained from the launch of La Petite Robe Noir fragrance, while Parfums Givenchy’s results got a lift from sales of the Noir Couture mascara as well as broader distribution of the makeup collection. Finally, Benefit, Make Up For Ever and Fresh also posted gains.

First quarter results were not as robust as corporate sales rose 6% to $8.8 billion. Perfume and cosmetic sales gained 4% to nearly $1.2 billion. Christian Dior’s J’adore, Miss Dior and Dior Homme all posted solid gains and Dior Addict lipstick was popular too.
Guerlain’s sales rose on the strength of La Petit Robe Noire and the success of Orchidée Impériale, a high-end skin care line.

Sales: $4.2 billion

Sales of perfumes and cosmetics rose 4% last year, but corporate sales soared 16% to nearly $33 billion—proof that luxury made a big comeback in 2011.

Within the perfumes and cosmetics business, fragrance accounted for 49% of sales, followed by cosmetics 34% and skin care products 17%. By region, Europe (excluding France) accounted for 37% of sales, followed by Asia (excluding Japan), 22%; other markets, 16%; France, 10%; US, 9%; and Japan, 6%. All of the brands played a part in the strong momentum of the Asian and American markets. Europe, despite the uncertain environment at the end of the year, also contributed to their growth.

By brand, the Parfums Christian Dior brand continued to excel, led by strong demand for J’adore, which was once again the leading female perfume in France in 2011 as well as the record-setting launch of Dior Addict lipstick. Guerlain sales were boosted by demand for Shalimar as well as the success of Orchidée Impériale. Guerlain expanded its distribution by opening new boutiques in France, the Middle East and China. At Parfums Givenchy, the new women’s fragrance, Dahlia Noir, launched in the second half of the year, enjoyed a promising start. Benefit made a very successful debut in Brazil.

For the first quarter of 2012, sales of fragrances and cosmetics rose 12% to nearly $1.2 billion. In perfumes and cosmetics, organic revenue growth stood at 9% in the first quarter of 2012. Christian Dior continued to benefit from demand for its leading perfumes J’Adore, Miss Dior and Dior Homme.

Skin care and makeup sales also contributed to this strong performance, thanks to the growth of Dior Prestige and Dior Addict. Guerlain’s new perfume, La Petite Robe Noire, had an excellent launch and the skin care range Orchidée Impériale continued its strong growth across the world. Givenchy benefited from the performance of its new Very Irresistible product and new marketing campaign. Benefit and Make Up For Ever recorded remarkable growth, according to LVMH.

Sales: $4.0 billion

Sales of perfumes and cosmetics rose 12% last year and accounted for 15% of LVMH’s corporate sales. Taking a closer look at the LVMH beauty brands, Parfums Christian Dior was driven by the success of fragrance favorites such as J’adore, Poison and Eau Sauvage. Other product categories enjoyed strong growth thanks to the excellent performance of the new Rouge Dior lipstick range and the Capture skin care line. Guerlain benefited from the success of its new Idylle fragrance and continued popularity of Shalimar, as well as its skin care line, Orchidée Impériale. The new Play for Her women’s fragrance from Parfums Givenchy made a successful debut too, while Benefit and Make Up For Ever found new fans around the world.

For the first quarter of 2011, fragrance and cosmetics sales rose 9% to $1 billion. The Christian Dior unit led the way, thanks to gains made by existing brands as well as the successful launches of Dior Addict lipstick and Miss Dior fragrance. Guerlain continued to benefit from the rapid growth of its legendary perfume Shalimar and from its skin care range Orchidée Impériale. Givenchy’s growth was driven by the success of Play for Her, launched in 2010. Benefit and Make Up For Ever experienced exceptional growth across all markets, according to LVMH.

Sales: $3.8 billion

Fragrance and cosmetics sales may have fallen 4.4% last year, but LVMH increased profit and market share during the downturn. By region, Europe (excluding France) accounted for 39% of sales, followed by France, 17%; Asia (excluding Japan), 16%; other, 13%; U.S., 8% and Japan, 7%. By category, perfumes represented 53% of sales, followed by cosmetics, 28% and skin care products, 19%.

LVMH management isn’t waiting for the economic uncertainty to end to boost sales and market share. Each brand has a specific objective to achieve going forward. For example, Parfums Christian Dior will concentrate its efforts on its priority markets and the development of its exceptional image. The launch of Capture Totale One Essential serum is expected to provide a lift.

Guerlain will continue to expand, primarily in France and China. It will build on its luxury image and support core products such as Shalimar and the new Idylle perfume.

Parfums Givenchy is focused on developing the Play line and the upcoming launch of a new anti-aging product.

Kenzo celebrates its 10th anniversary this year with new communication tools and advertisements.

Make Up For Ever will drive growth via HD and Aqua, as well as the launch of new lipgloss and lipstick products.

For the first quarter of 2010, corporate sales rose 11% to $6.1 billion. Perfume and cosmetic sales increased 11% to $1 billion. Sales were helped along by the popularity of Fahrenheit and Miss Dior Chérie fragrances, Capture Totale One Essential skin care and DiorShow Extase mascara.

Last month, LVMH announced it had acquired a 70% stake in Sack’s, the leading online retailer of fragrances, cosmetics and toiletries and one of the leading companies in the whole specialty beauty distribution sector in Brazil. The move marks Sephora’s entry into the Brazilian perfumes and cosmetics market, one of the largest and fastest-growing beauty markets worldwide.

Founded in 2000, Sack’s carries more than 270 brands and its client portfolio comprises more than 830,000 customers. Sack’s is one of the top-three most frequently accessed pure-play e-commerce sites in Brazil, with four million unique visitors each month, according to LVMH.

Sales: $4.2 billion

Perfume and cosmetic units posted organic revenue growth of 8% and 5%, respectively. The French luxury firm said performance was spurred by both innovation and the enrichment of existing lines. All three categories of products—perfume (which accounts for 54% of sales), makeup (28%) and skin care (18%)—enjoyed positive growth. In addition, LVMH officials said the group reaffirmed its leadership position in Europe while brands continued their steady advances in Russia, China and the Middle East, a fact that company officials say confirms there’s room for further growth.

However, luxury marketers, LVMH included, have found the early part of 2009 difficult. In the first quarter, LVMH’s perfume and cosmetics’ revenues slid 8%, which it said was due in part to the difficult comparison with very strong revenue in the year-ago quarter and by retailers decreasing their stock levels. However, the company said demand remained robust in Russia and China, and Benefit and Make Up For Ever confirmed good growth momentum thanks to ongoing international expansion.

Sales: $3.74 billion for perfumes and cosmetics.
Corporate sales: $22.5 billion.

LVMH’s perfumes and cosmetics business group recorded sales of $3.74 billion, with organic revenue growth of 12% in 2007. Profit from recurring operations rose to $350 million for the unit. The company attributed the gains to innovation and expansion of flagship lines.

Fragrances are the company’s main product sector, accounting for 55% of sales globally. Cosmetic sales represent 16% and skin care products accounting for 19% of LVMH’s beauty business sales.

Geographically, LVMH’s largest market for fragrances and cosmetics is Europe (excluding France), which accounted for 43% of sales. France accounted for 16% of sales; Asia (excluding Japan), 13%; U.S.,  8%; and Japan, 6%. Other markets accounted for 14%.

In 2007, Parfums Christian Dior recorded solid revenue growth, which was accompanied by new and strong improvement in its profitability. Dior reported growth in Russia, while Asian sales benefited from Chinese activity.

In the U.S., Dior’s selective distribution strategy enabled it to gain market share with record growth rate. Perfume performed well, buoyed by the launch of Midnight Poison and Fahrenheit 32. Dior’s Capture helped drive skin care sales. On the makeup side, Rouge Dior, Diorskin foundation and the Backstage line recorded formidable performances, according to the company.

LVMH said Guerlain performed exceptionally well in 2007, outpacing the market with “remarkable revenue growth and sharply improved” profitability.

Parfums Givenchy posted steady growth in its priority markets and opened its first location in China. Makeup and skin care, which recorded double digit growth in all regions, gave the brand a boost.

Solid performance from its three foundation fragrances—FlowerbyKenzo, KenzoAmour and Eaux by Kenzo–drove steady growth at Kenzo.

With a loyal following, whimsical Benefit Cosmetics maintained a high level of profitability and continued growth in all markets, which are dominated by the U.S. and Great Britain. In addition, the brand enjoyed what LVMH described as a “very promising entry into the Chinese market.” Makeup Forever recorded excellent performances in all markets, with very substantial revenue growth driven by expansion of its retail network.