When Did Louis Vuitton Buy Rimowa?

Louis Vuitton is a French luxury fashion house that has been in the business for over 160 years. It is known for its high-end bags, luggage, and accessories that are coveted by people all around the world. Rimowa, on the other hand, is a German luggage brand that has been around for over 120 years.

Both brands have established themselves as leaders in the luxury luggage market. So, when did Louis Vuitton buy Rimowa? Let’s find out.

The Acquisition

In 2016, Louis Vuitton announced that it had acquired an 80% stake in Rimowa for €640 million ($716 million). The remaining 20% was retained by Dieter Morszeck, the grandson of Rimowa’s founder. This acquisition was one of the largest in Louis Vuitton’s history and was seen as a strategic move to expand its presence in the luxury luggage market.

Impact on Rimowa

The acquisition by Louis Vuitton had a significant impact on Rimowa. While it continued to operate as an independent brand with its own management team, it gained access to Louis Vuitton’s resources and expertise. This led to significant improvements in its product offerings and distribution channels.

One of the most significant changes was the introduction of new materials like polycarbonate and aluminum to replace traditional materials like leather and canvas. This allowed Rimowa to create more lightweight and durable luggage that appealed to modern travelers.

Impact on Louis Vuitton

The acquisition of Rimowa also had a positive impact on Louis Vuitton. It allowed the company to expand its presence in the high-end luggage market by acquiring one of its biggest competitors. Additionally, it gave Louis Vuitton access to Rimowa’s expertise in aluminum manufacturing which helped them improve their own products.

The Future of Rimowa

Since its acquisition by Louis Vuitton, Rimowa has continued to thrive. It has expanded its product offerings and distribution channels, making it more accessible to consumers around the world. Today, Rimowa is known for its innovative designs and high-quality products that are loved by travelers worldwide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Louis Vuitton’s acquisition of Rimowa in 2016 was a significant move that had a positive impact on both brands. It allowed Louis Vuitton to expand its presence in the luxury luggage market while giving Rimowa access to new resources and expertise. Today, Rimowa continues to be one of the most respected names in the luxury luggage industry, thanks in part to its partnership with Louis Vuitton.