LVMH’s Strategic Shift Expanding Luxury Production in the U.S.

LVMH is considering expanding its production footprint in the United States, with CEO Bernard Arnault highlighting a favorable business climate that contrasts with mounting corporate tax pressures in France. The luxury conglomerate, known for its “made in France” craftsmanship across brands like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co., currently operates only a few production sites in the U.S., but that may soon change.

Arnault, who also serves as LVMH’s main shareholder, acknowledged that American authorities are actively encouraging the company to increase its presence. Speaking after LVMH’s quarterly results presentation, he confirmed that expansion in the U.S. is under serious consideration. Favorable tax policies and a dynamic economic environment make the country an attractive destination for further investment.

His long-standing ties to the U.S. business community were evident earlier this month when he and his family attended President Donald Trump’s second-term inauguration. Sitting near the lectern alongside billionaires like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, Arnault reinforced his connections with American leadership. His relationship with Trump dates back decades, and during Trump’s first term, Arnault welcomed him to a Louis Vuitton workshop opening in Texas.

The CEO’s praise for the U.S. economy stood in stark contrast to his growing frustration with France’s regulatory environment and recent proposals to impose higher taxes on large corporations. Reflecting on his return from a trip to the U.S., he described the mood there as a “wind of optimism,” whereas coming back to France felt like “a cold shower.”

The United States remains a crucial market for LVMH, accounting for 25% of its total revenue and employing more than 40,000 people. As the luxury industry continues to evolve, the company appears increasingly open to deepening its ties with the world’s largest economy.

Maria Upek