PPR head of luxury upholds brand distinction
Alexis Babeau, the Paris-based managing director of PPR’s luxury division, recently told Forbes how the group manages its luxury brands while maintaining their unique identities.
He said that PPR aims to maintain the distinction in materials between Gucci bags (made of calf leather) and of Bottega Venetta bags (made of sheepskin). Using one type of leather for both brands would increase profit margins, Mr Babeau told Forbes, “but it would spell the beginning of the end” for brand identity and authenticity, he said.
Mr Babeau also mentioned the role of emerging markets in the company’s growth strategy. “We have the ability in China to be successful with all of our brands,” Mr Babeau said. He added that Japan has the most mature luxury market in the world.
