Dress to Impress: Corporate play in the luxury segment

If you're building a startup in the luxury segment, it's crucial to know about the two biggest luxury holdings in the world that have venture arms investing in startups. Here's a streamlined guide to what you need to know & their investment thesis cheat sheet

LVMH Luxury Ventures, an investment entity under LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury goods group.

Focus: LVMH Luxury Ventures invests in emerging luxury brands that show potential in offering new products, services, or technologies. The venture arm is particularly interested in startups that innovate within traditional luxury categories such as fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, and high-end experiences.

Support: Beyond capital, LVMH provides strategic guidance, operational resources, and market expansion opportunities. It leverages its vast industry network to offer mentorship, advanced technological support, and a global distribution network to help startups scale effectively and sustainably.

Kering Ventures, an investment arm of Kering Group, a global leader in luxury and fashion, owning brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga, and many more.

Focus: Kering Ventures targets companies that are pioneering sustainable practices and innovative solutions within the luxury and fashion industries. The firm looks for startups that align with Kering’s commitment to environmental responsibility and ethical business practices.

Support: Kering Ventures aids its portfolio companies by facilitating access to Kering's extensive resources in sustainable development, ethical sourcing, and innovative materials. It also offers strategic alignment with Kering’s powerful brand portfolio, providing a unique platform for growth and visibility in the competitive luxury market.