Crafting innovation

Beyond strategy and market growth, LVMH's presence in China is also defined by craftsmanship, technical expertise, and human talent development.

This is reflected in the experience of Wang Zhenlei, a senior technician at the premium luggage brand Rimowa and one of the company's "Master Craftsman" honorees in China.

Wang described his work as a long-term process of technical refinement, cross-border collaboration, and continuous learning.

"I have worked at Rimowa for 17 years, handling complex repairs, emergency cases, and tasks that often require finding solutions others consider impossible," he said. "We frequently collaborate with colleagues from France, Germany, Japan, and other Asian markets through video conferences and technical exchanges to improve and optimize our repair techniques continuously."

Wang also highlighted his own technical contributions.

"I have designed and built customized tools, including compact polishing devices and repair equipment, because commercial tools were not always suitable for our needs," he said. "For me, craftsmanship is not only about skill, but about mindset — staying curious, hardworking, and willing to improve continuously."

His experience reflects LVMH's broader philosophy of combining traditional craftsmanship with innovation and global knowledge exchange.

Today, China remains one of LVMH's most dynamic markets globally. Driven by younger generations of digitally connected consumers, the market is increasingly defined not only by product demand, but by expectations for immersive experiences, storytelling, and cultural engagement.

In response, LVMH has expanded flagship stores, integrated hospitality concepts such as restaurants into retail spaces, and invested in experiential luxury formats.

Jamet said this shift reflects a deeper structural transformation in global luxury.

"If you can succeed with young Chinese consumers, you can succeed anywhere in the world," he said. "China is not only a market for luxury; it is also a laboratory for LVMH."

Global partnerships

LVMH has also strengthened cooperation with technology and cultural ecosystems in China. The group works closely with Alibaba Group and participates in VivaTech in Paris, one of the world's leading innovation forums.

Jamet noted that Chinese companies frequently stand out at the event, reflecting the country's strong innovation capacity and digital dynamism.

In addition, LVMH has expanded its presence in global sports partnerships, including Formula 1, which features the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, further integrating its brands into international and Chinese cultural and sporting platforms.

Looking ahead, both Jamet and Wu expressed strong confidence in the long-term trajectory of China-Europe relations and China's consumer market, despite global geopolitical uncertainties.

Jamet said stability, dialogue, and long-term cooperation remain essential for global business.

"France and China share a long tradition of cooperation, and we are committed to strengthening that relationship further."

Wu echoed this view, emphasizing the role of commerce in connecting societies.

"Retail and commerce are ultimately about people," he said. "They connect cultures, ideas, and societies. In an increasingly complex world, companies like ours can contribute to greater understanding and trust."

He added that both China and Europe share a strong interest in stability and predictability, which provides a solid foundation for future cooperation.

"I personally believe that companies — especially international brands — must act as bridges over troubled waters," he said.

"The world is increasingly complex, and people-to-people connections are becoming more important than ever.

"Commerce, especially retail, connects people across cultures and societies. Therefore, despite all the challenges and uncertainties we face globally, we should continue doing our best — as individuals, companies, and brands — to play a positive role and contribute to stability, dialogue, and peace."

More than 30 years after entering the China market, LVMH has evolved beyond a luxury group and expanded to become part of a broader ecosystem of economic, cultural, and technological exchange between China and Europe.

From early retail expansion to cultural co-creation, spanning craftsmanship transmission, innovation, and digital transformation, its journey reflects a deep and evolving partnership.

As China continues to help shape global consumption trends, LVMH executives say their confidence in the market remains unchanged.

"We need to build a genuine partnership for the future, based on confidence, transparency, and mutual performance," Jamet said.

Contact the writer at zhangzhouxiang@chinadaily.com.cn