This week centered around exec change-ups, probably brands cleaning house to get ready for the new year. First, Michael Burke was named CEO of Louis Vuitton, replacing Jordi Constans who needed to step down suddenly. Mr. Burke came from Bulgari.
Meanwhile, LVMH tapped Pauline Brown to head up the entire LVMH North America branch. Ms. Brown was formerly an independent advisor to luxury brands.
Bottega Veneta also switched up a few positions, particularly in the communications department. Billy Daley was named worldwide director of advertising and digital media. Also, Josh Gaynor is now the U.S. director of communications, overseeing public relations, advertising and events in most of the U.S. and South America.
The trial against Dolce & Gabbana founders and designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana continued this week; the Italian government has charged them with tax evasion earlier this year. Court dates have been set in late January and February of next year.
In time for the holiday season, Badgley Mishka launched a new ecommerce site. It allows access to all products, the World of Badgley Mishka and social media connectivity.
However, there are some reports saying that this season, consumers are shopping more in-store than online. That is not to say that online is not doing well – the majority of sales are still happening online, per comScore. This could be because stores are taking the time to increase the in-store experience.
Given the many channels on which customers are buying products, it is difficult for experts to say whether or not retailers should expect a last-minute surge on holiday gifts, but marketers are hopeful.