France-based luxury products group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton has recorded a 19% increase in profit from recurring operations during the first half of 2006 and a 35% increase in operating profit. Each of the business groups recorded double-digit growth in profit from recurring operations, following previous strong growth in the first half of 2005. Net profit grew 46% compared with the first half of 2005.

Profit in The Fashion & Leather Goods segment increased by 13%, taking the operating margin above 30% in the first half. This was attributed to the success of its new leather goods lines, which already has waiting lists around the world.

The B.Fendi bag was one of the leading products of the season and Loewe, Marc Jacobs and Donna Karan also progressed well.