Luxury Headlines – 18/05/2026
Luxury Headlines – 18/05/2026
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LVMH Sells Marc Jacobs to WHP Global and G-III Apparel Group
LVMH has finalized a definitive agreement to sell the Marc Jacobs brand, capitalizing on portfolio rationalization to optimize its asset mix. The transaction is structured through a 50/50 joint venture between brand management firm WHP Global and G-III Apparel Group. G-III is investing approximately $500 million, utilizing cash reserves and debt to acquire and operate the global wholesale and DTC businesses under a long-term licensing arrangement, while WHP manages the intellectual property and global licensing contracts. Founder Marc Jacobs will retain his position as Creative Director to preserve core brand equity, runway identity, and design continuity across mainline and sub-label collections.
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On Holding AG Releases Double-Digit Q1 Results
Swiss sports brand and lifestyle group On Holding AG reported a +14.5% increase in Q1 2026 net sales (+26.4% at constant exchange rates), totaling CHF 831.9 million. Gross profit margin reached 64.2%, successfully absorbing elevated U.S. tariffs on imports from Vietnam, while adjusted EBITDA margin rose to 21.0% from 16.5% in the prior year. Total DTC (Direct-to-consumer) Revenue rose +16.4%, while wholesale channels contributed +13.3% growth. Geographically, the Asia-Pacific market led with a +44.4% increase in sales, followed by EMEA (+22.8%) and the Americas (+3.1%). Product growth centered on footwear, with revenue increasing +12.2%, while high-velocity segments showed notable expansion, with apparel recording +45.1% and accessories increasing +70.7%. Based on these results, On Holding AG raised its FY 2026 constant currency net sales growth outlook to at least +23%, with a minimum reported revenue of CHF 3.51 billion.
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Audemars Piguet and Swatch Launch the Royal Pop Watch Collaboration
The Audemars Piguet x Swatch collaboration, launching May 16, introduces the “Royal Pop," a bioceramic pocket watch inspired by the 1979 Gérald Genta Ref. 5692. Featuring the Sistem51 caliber, the collection includes eight interchangeable colorways designed for versatile styling beyond the wrist. Each piece includes a calfskin lanyard and clip, allowing it to be worn as a neck pendant or a bag charm or even used as a desk clock with a dedicated stand. AP is donating all proceeds to an initiative supporting the education of new generations in the horological industry to preserve traditional expertise.
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Louis Vuitton Showcases Cruise 2027 Collection at The Frick Collection
Louis Vuitton has announced its Cruise 2027 show will debut on May 20 at The Frick Collection in New York, marking the museum's first-ever fashion activation. This event initiates a 3-year sponsorship that includes underwriting major exhibitions and supporting the museum’s free public evenings starting in June. By integrating Nicolas Ghesquière’s designs with the institution’s architectural heritage, the house emphasizes its commitment to cultural preservation.
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Cartier Unveils Le Chœur des Pierres High Jewelry Collection
Cartier has debuted its latest high jewelry collection, "Le Chœur des Pierres," in Saint-Tropez, emphasizing a stone-led design philosophy. The collection features 130 novelties, including the Tutti Kanya necklace and Panthère Kentia, showcasing over 1,900 carats of center stones. By harmonizing rare colored diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires with geometric and figurative motifs, the house reinforces its aesthetic heritage. The launch took place at an intimate Provençal castle, attended by the house ambassadors. This event inaugurates a global 3-chapter release strategy, marking a pivot from large-scale galas toward intimate, high-impact rollouts. This phased approach prioritizes exclusive storytelling and sustained client engagement across Europe and Asia through early 2027.
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Ferragamo Appoints New Chief Brand Officer
Yigit Turhan is stepping into the role of Chief Brand Officer effective May 18th, succeeding Michaela Ratti. He will report to the Chief Transformation and Sustainability Officer James Ferragamo, and his responsibilities will include overseeing marketing, communication, as well as visual merchandising and CRM. His previous roles include various positions at Zegna Group, Gucci, and Valentino, where he most recently held the position of Chief Marketing Officer.
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Cadillac Reaches 100,000 EV Sales Milestone
Cadillac has reached the milestone of 100,000 electric vehicles sold in the U.S., driven by a diverse SUV portfolio including the Lyriq and Escalade IQ. According to Cadillac's data, 75% of buyers are new to the brand, successfully attracting customers from Tesla and European luxury competitors. While Q1 2026 saw a 20% year-over-year increase, external factors like shifting tax credits present growth challenges. Despite market fluctuations, Cadillac’s strategy effectively leverages high-performance and bespoke electric models to modernize its brand identity.
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