The Luxury Item with Scott Kerr

Scott Kerr speaks with Sabine Brunner, president of MCM Worldwide, the legendary German luxury lifestyle goods and fashion house founded in 1976 and known for its high-quality leather goods and instantly recognized monogram — the Cognac Visetos. Brunner, who joined MCM in 2023, discusses injecting new energy into the brand with a fresh design team, major marketing push, and buzzy campaigns starring A-list celebrities like Cindy Crawford and Cara Delevingne. She also talks about why MCM targets 'rule-breaking mavericks', how the Visetos monogram stays relevant with each collection, investing heavily in its digital capabilities and next-generation metaverse platform, debuting at Milan Design Week, and how MCM is positioning the brand in the turbulent luxury market. Plus: What will make MCM stick with consumers in a culture flooded with brands?Featuring: Sabine Brunner, President of MCM Worldwide (mcmworldwide.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with Giuseppe Santoni, chairman and executive president of Santoni, the nearly half-century-old luxury Italian footwear company famed for its artisanal craftsmanship, high-quality leather and contemporary style. Founded as a men's shoe business by his father Andrea Santoni in 1975, Giuseppe talks about the workshop being his "playground" as a child, taking over the helm of the company at 21-years-old and growing it into one of the world's leading brands in men's luxury footwear. He also discusses how the brand's values have helped guide it through economic downturns and shifting tastes, his strong ambitions to grow the women's category to half the business, and how Italian brands should be speaking to Gen Z about the importance of "Made in Italy" manufacturing. Plus: New footwear trends that are driving the evolution of the market.Featuring: Giuseppe Santoni, Chairman and Executive President of Santoni (santoni.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Christian Vernet, CEO of La Compagnie, a unique Paris-based airline that offers premium all-business-class transatlantic flight experiences but at competitive pricing. Christian discusses why the 10-year old company's all-business-class model has endured while others have failed in the space, how post-pandemic trends have influenced its strategies and offerings, and why upgrading from Boeing to Airbus jets was a game changer. He also talks about La Compagnie sustainability commitments in light of business class having a greater environmental impact and Brexit's role in the carrier's decision to cancel London service. Plus: Why the Summer Olympics has hit bookings to ParisFeaturing: Christian Vernet, CEO of La Compagnie (lacompagnie.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO of American luxury electric automaker Lucid Motors, to talk about how the company evolved from an electric battery and powertrain supplier to a frontrunner in the electric vehicle market competing head-on with the German luxury manufacturers. Rawlinson, an auto industry veteran who engineered the Tesla Model S, discusses the technology innovations and design thinking behind the Lucid Air (its first vehicle) as well as its upcoming Gravity model entry into the completive luxury SUV market. He also talks about the EV marketplace and where it's going, how Lucid intends to generate consistent demand for its vehicles, scaling the business to profitability, and capitalizing on Tesla's media 'noise'. Plus: Why Chinese automakers are still years behind on EV techFeaturing: Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid Motors (lucidmotors.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

When it comes to high-end audio equipment, few companies have cornered the market quite like McIntosh Group. The group has been a leader and innovator in the premium and luxury audio category for decades and today has a portfolio of the world’s most revered audio brands including McIntosh, Sonus faber, and Rotel. Scott Kerr speaks with McIntosh Group CEO Daniel Pidgeon about how McIntosh became a favorite among audiophiles and audio enthusiasts and why the pandemic drove consumers to invest more in higher quality audio experiences and the ultra-wealthy to install the best audio systems in their private jets and yachts. He also discusses its car audio partnerships with Lamborghini, Maserati, and Jeep. Plus: The backstory on how McIntosh amplifiers shaped music history by powering the Grateful Dead's legendary 'Wall of Sound' concert in the 1970sFeaturing: Daniel Pidgeon, CEO of McIntosh Group (mcintoshgroup.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr talks Tina Edmundson, president of luxury at Marriott International, who oversees a prestigious portfolio of luxury brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, BVLGARI Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, EDITION, The Luxury Collection, JW Marriott and W Hotels. Tina discusses her strategic priorities in her role since being elevated to president, why the Marriott International and Starwood Hotels merger was a "perfect marriage" and the white space it filled in the luxury segment, and where Marriott is exploring growth opportunities to reach UHNW customers. She also talks about more guests holding its luxury hotels to an even higher standard of experience driven services, building meaningful connections with guests through hyper-personalization, and big luxury travel themes over the next 12 months. Plus: The core strategy behind its brand adjacencies like the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and St. Regis branded residences. Featuring: President, Luxury at Marriott International (marriott.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Guido Conti Caponi, chief operating officer at Loretta Caponi, the legendary family-owned Florentine luxury label founded by his grandmother more than 50 years ago and renowned for its hand-embroidered sleepwear, linens, and ready-to-wear. Guido talks about the brand's remarkable history and how Loretta turned her love for the craft of embroidery as a young girl into a successful global business with a client list that includes top Hollywood celebs and European royals. Guido also discusses how he and his mother Lucia, who oversees design, are taking the brand into the future, riding the 'quiet luxury' movement, the company's growth and distribution strategies, and bringing younger audiences into the brand. Plus: The challenge of finding skilled artisans to help keep up with product demandFeaturing: Guido Conti Caponi, COO at Loretta Caponi (lorettacaponi.it)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Deborah Calmeyer, CEO and founder of ultra-luxury African safari company ROAR AFRICA, to discuss how she turned her love for Africa and her desire to share its beauty with the world into a business. Calmeyer talks about her journey from growing up in the Zimbabwean bush to moving to New York City and launching a luxury African travel company, how the company's female-centric approach is a new model for the male-dominated African safari industry, what's fueling the surge in safari tourism, how luxury travelers to Africa have changed, and creating custom itineraries that cater to the upper echelon of global wealth. Plus: Why "being the in the wild is a prescription for the soul"Featuring: Deborah Calmeyer, CEO and Founder of ROAR AFRICA (roarafrica.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Legendary fashion designer Norma Kamali joins Scott Kerr to talk about the journey of running her own business for over 50 years, her enthusiasm for technology, and her continuous drive to learn and create. Famously known for her innovative designs like the "sleeping bag" coat and "parachute dress", Kamali, now 78, discusses her approach to designing clothes that are timeless, why she embraced e-commerce before the rest of the fashion industry, and building a custom AI tool to preserve her design legacy. She also talks about how the 80s AIDS epidemic inspired her to put health and wellness at the heart of her brand and what the key is to building a strong brand identity. Plus: Why Norma Kamali returned her Apple Vision Pro soon after she purchased itFeaturing: Norma Kamali, Fashion Designer and Owner of Norma Kamali, Inc. (normakamali.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Antoine Pin, managing director of Bulgari's watch division, sits down with Scott Kerr to discuss the realities of the shifting luxury watch market, how the brand is aiming to win the battle for the wrists of wealthy buyers, and the artistic inspiration behind some of the new luxury timepieces that mark the 140th anniversary of the storied Roman jewelry house. Antoine also talks about why gold is a hallmark element of Bulgari and the current trend towards yellow gold timepieces, why the brand introduced a collection of watches that incorporate the original design sketches on the dials, and why multi-brand watch retailers are a key part of its long-term strategy. Plus: Antoine announces Bulgari's new world's thinnest watch unveiled at Watches and Wonders and why the brand keeps creating ultra-thin watches.Featuring: Antoine Pin, Managing Director of the Bulgari Watch Division (bulgari.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr speaks to Raphael Sauleau, CEO of IYC (The International Yacht Company), one of the world’s largest superyacht brokerages, about the health of the luxury yacht market and the shifting buyer demographic. Raphael discusses his main strategic focus since joining as CEO in 2022, how he's navigating a market reversal after the post-pandemic yacht-buying boom, the rising influence of wealthy Millennial yacht owners, and fashion designers taking on superyacht projects. He also talks about how "quiet luxury" hit the superyacht market, why more UHNW owners are adding fitness facilities on their boats, and the role of strategic partnerships with luxury brands in IYC's growth. Plus: How the role of yacht broker has evolved in the new digital era and yachting influencers Featuring: Raphael Sauleau, CEO of IYC (The International Yacht Company) (iyc.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr speaks to Simon Kim, owner and CEO of Gracious Hospitality Management, the brand behind the highly acclaimed Michelin-starred Cote Korean Steakhouse in New York City, Miami, and Singapore as well as the newly opened high-end fried chicken and Champagne concept Coqodaq. Kim, who came to the U.S. from Korea at age 13, talks about what's driving Americas' sharp demand for Korean cuisine and his journey to fulfilling his lifelong dream of opening a game-changing Korean restaurant. He also talks about what he learned about fine dining hospitality from working for the world's best chefs and opening (and closing) his very first restaurant. He discusses the economics of running a Michelin star restaurant and the importance of having a great restaurant culture. Plus: How being a restaurateur has changed the way he thinks about food and his customersFeaturing: Simon Kim, Owner and CEO of Gracious Hospitality Management (gracioushm.com, cotekoreansteakhouse.com, coqodaq.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Greg Spencer, Chief Executive Officer of Timbers Company, a leading luxury vacation homes and rentals company that offers the ability for HNWIs to buy whole and fractional ownership in vacation properties in the world's top destinations. Greg discusses how Timbers Company strives to deliver the same top-of-the-strata services and opulent experiences to its wealthy co-owners as ultra-luxury hotels, why the wrenching correction in the second-homes market didn't impact Timbers' business, creating a culture of hospitality excellence through creative solutions, and why the 'experiential luxury' trend compliments its business model. Plus: Big luxury travel themes for the coming yearFeaturing: Greg Spencer, Chief Executive Officer of Timbers Company (timberscompany.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with John Gerhardt, global creative director at Moët Hennessy, the wines and spirits business of luxury giant LVMH. Gerhardt, a TIME Magazine "Design 100" honoree when he was at luxury retailer Holt Renfrew, discusses his role as the Moët Hennessy brand lead and partnering with the twenty-seven Maisons, how Moët Hennessy is re-evaluating its creative approach in a challenging market, and how its heritage brands are speaking to a new generation of drinkers. He also talks about the strategies behind some of the rebranding and new product efforts he's been involved in. From refreshing the Chandon sparkling wine brand, to rebranding a 200-year-old French vineyard to launching MH's first-ever cocktail bar in Paris. Plus: What the luxury fashion industry can learn from high-end wines and spiritsFeaturing: John Gerhardt, Global Creative Director at Moët Hennessy (lvmh.com/houses/wines-spirits)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

In this encore episode from March 14, 2023, Scott Kerr sits down with Anish Melwani, chairman & CEO of LVMH for North America to discuss the evolving relationship between luxury and the US consumer and why LVMH is well positioned to navigate through economic uncertainty. He also talks about price increase trends, why luxury is connected to our identity, the role of the physical store and measuring customer impact, the relationship between the maison's creative and business leaders, and the latest on the Aura Blockchain Consortium. Plus: How LVMH approaches Web3 and the metaverseFeaturing: Anish Melwani, Chairman & CEO of LVMH for North America (lvmh.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr speaks to Pascal Féraud, Executive Chef at DUCASSE Paris, the restaurant group for world renowned chef Alain Ducasse. Pascal discusses his career working as a top chef in many of Alain Ducasse's emblematic fine dining restaurants including Le Louis XV in Monaco and Le Jules Verne located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Pascal also talks about the Ducasse philosophy that's shared across the Group's extensive global empire of restaurants, adjusting his approach for American tastes and habits when he worked in Los Angeles, how the role of executive chef has changed over the years, Ducasse's haute chocolate universe, fine dining trends, and the impact of advanced technology on his kitchens. Plus: The challenges that come with operating a high-end restaurant in the Eiffel TowerFeaturing: Pascal Féraud, Executive Chef at DUCASSE Paris (ducasse-paris.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Roland Herlory, CEO of luxury swimwear brand Vilebrequin, sits down with Scott Kerr to discuss how the company began as a love story in the early '70s and grew into an iconic global brand. Roland talks about why taking the helm of Vilebrequin after 23 years at Hermès was the "most beautiful gift" in his professional life, why its physical stores will play an even more important role in the company's growth, and how the brand's distinctive product and positioning helps withstand increased competitive pressures in the luxury swimwear category. He also discusses Vilebrequin's approach to brand extensions and why it embraces collabs with artists in a big way. Plus: Sustainability and protecting the oceans has become an essential part of Vilebrequin's work way before consumers demanded it.Featuring: Roland Herlory, CEO of Vilebrequin (vilebrequin.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Eugene Tutunikov, CEO of SwissWatchExpo, one of the leading online global retailers of pre-owned luxury watches, to give his perspective on the recent slowdown in the secondary watch market and the outlook for next year. He also talks about coming to the U.S. with his family from Ukraine and realizing the American Dream with the success of his company, navigating the luxury watch demand slowdown, the impact of Rolex's certified pre-owned watch program on his business, the new consumer segments leading the upswing in luxury watch sales, and the watch collaboration explosion. Plus: The key drivers will be to take pre-owned luxury watch market from $24 billion to $35 billion by 2026Featuring: Eugene Tutunikov, CEO of SwissWatchExpo (swisswatchexpo.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr speaks with Sophie Brocart, CEO of Patou, the iconic French luxury couture house founded by Jean Patou in 1914 and acquired by LVMH in 2018. Sophie discusses how she and artistic director Guillaume Henry have revived the storied fashion label after being dormant for thirty years, why Jean Patou was a pioneer and his rivalry with Coco Chanel, and where LVMH saw the opportunity in resurrecting the maison. She also talks about the business strategy for growing the brand, moving beyond a wholesale model, and partnering with Fairly Made on a traceability solution. Plus: Why Patou has been a rich training ground for top fashion talent like Karl Lagerfeld and Christian LacroixFeaturing: Sophie Brocart, CEO of Patou (patou.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Jamie Ritchie, chief operating officer at BlockBar, a direct-to-consumer NFT platform for high-end wine & spirits. Ritchie, who joined earlier this year from Sotheby's where he was worldwide chairman of Sotheby’s wine and spirits, discusses BlockBar's asset-backed NFT business model and how it's transforming the ultra-premium spirits business. He also talks about growing its audience beyond millennial cryptoenthsiasts, how spirits brand partners have leveraged the community aspect of NFTs, interesting NFT drops from Glenfiddich and Midleton Very Rare, and exploring the fractional ownership space. Plus: Getting more wine brands on board with the direct-to-consumer NFT marketplace.Featuring: Jamie Ritchie, Chief Operating Officer at BlockBar (blockbar.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with Piero Braga, the CEO of Slowear, the high-end Italian fashion company whose portfolio of brands include Incotex, Zanone, Glanshirt and Montedoro. Braga, a seasoned executive who recently joined from Gucci, discusses Slowear's 'durable fashion' philosophy, his key priorities for the company and the avenues for growth, and the challenges that come with leading a group of brands versus a single one. He also talks about where menswear fashion is going, the mindset of the Slowear customer, creating relevance to younger clientele, and its long-term physical store strategy. Plus: An update on becoming a B Corp.Featuring: Piero Braga, CEO of Slowear (slowear.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Email: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr speaks with Stefano Giacomelli, CEO of Tivoli Group, the Florentine company that produces leather goods for some of the world's most well known fashion and luxury brands. Stefano discusses the company's adaptable business model and why its "beyond craftsmanship" credo is an important part of Tivoli Group's success. He also talks about why the leather goods industry will continue to thrive despite the softening luxury market, how AI and craftsmanship can collaborate successfully, navigating the challenges of the labor shortage, Tivoli Group's sustainability practices, and why it acquired the 135-year-old British luxury leather goods brand Smythson. Plus: Is the new face of "Made in Italy" about scale and power?Featuring: Stefano Giacomelli, CEO of Tivoli Group (www.tivoligroup.it)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Leona Qi, President U.S. of VistaJet to discuss white-hot private business aviation sector and why VistaJet's unique 'asset-free' business model has helped drive record growth. She also talks about the ways VistaJet curates top-of-the-strata voyages for its high-spending members, why creating an incredible on-board dining experience is a key strategy for company, how feedback from its pilots and crew inspired a number of in-flight family-oriented programs, and the future of private aviation. Plus: Why the share of female private jet passengers has doubled in the last few yearsFeaturing: Leona Qi, President U.S. of VistaJet (vistajet.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with Chuck Cashman, chief revenue officer at MarineMax, the world's largest yacht retailer. Chuck talks about how Covid-19 made superyachts a hot commodity among the ultra-rich and why it hasn't cooled down. He also discusses super-charging MarineMax's global position in yachting through a number of high-profile acquisitions, millennial superyacht owners and how they're shaping the industry, why superyachts are getting bigger, the most notable onboard perks, and why entry level yacht buyers are reconsidering their purchases. Plus: Autonomous yachts and other trendsFeaturing: Chuck Cashman, Chief Revenue Officer at MarineMax (marinemax.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] episode is sponsored by Ulysse NardinListen and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

In this encore episode from June 7, 2022, Michael Kliger, CEO of multi-brand luxury fashion e-tailer Mytheresa, talks with Scott Kerr about how its focus on curation, content and service has been driving the company's success. Michael also discusses why Mytheresa fills the void in the current US luxury retail landscape, its unique customer-centric approach, why it expanded into luxury home and lifestyle products, exploring the beauty category potential, and how it uses AI to identify and market to loyal customers. Plus: Why he sees luxury goods continuing to thrive despite the current headwinds.Featuring: Michael Kliger, CEO of Mytheresa (mytheresa.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr is joined by Jeff Lotman, owner and CEO of iconic luxury retailer Fred Segal. He is also CEO of brand licensing agency Global Icons, which acquired Fred Segal in 2018. Jeff discusses the influence that Fred Segal had on the culture and where he saw the business opportunity in breathing new life into the 60-year-old Los Angeles lifestyle brand. He also talks about making the brand relevant to young people, finding undiscovered brands for Fred Segal stores, bringing back its infamous Jean Bar, and launching its first in-house collection inspired by Los Angeles neighborhoods. Plus: Jeff takes us into the "misunderstood" world of brand licensing.Featuring: Jeff Lotman, Owner and CEO of Fred Segal (fredsegal.com, globalicons.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with Carrie Baker, president of Toronto-based luxury outerwear company Canada Goose, whose signature coats and parkas are commonly spotted on Hollywood celebrities and affluent urban consumers. Carrie discusses how the six-decade-old family-owned business, once a brand worn exclusively by Canadian rangers and arctic explorers evolved into a $1 billion global luxury lifestyle brand. She also talks about its commitment to remaining a “Made in Canada” brand, how winter wear became a hot category, why the brand is all-in on brick-and-mortar, expanding its offerings into non-parka products, putting a focus on the female consumer, and why it finally went fur-free. Plus: How Canada Goose is approaching Web3 Featuring: Carrie Baker, President of Canada Goose (canadagoose.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] episode is sponsored by Ulysse NardinListen and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

David Hurley, Deputy CEO of top international luxury watch retailer Watches of Switzerland Group joins Scott Kerr to discuss what's been driving the rampant demand for Swiss luxury timepieces over the last few years and how long the boom will continue. He also talks about the state of the company's five-year global expansion plan, how the UK-based Watches of Switzerland gained a foothold in the US, playing offense in Europe's growth, why its multichannel business model of mono-brand and multi-brand boutiques has been so successful, and the rise of independent Swiss luxury watch brands. Plus: How new consumer segments (e.g., young people, women) have changed the way Watches of Switzerland does businessFeaturing: David Hurley, Deputy CEO of Watches of Switzerland Group (watchesofswitzerland.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] episode is sponsored by Ulysse NardinListen and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr is joined by Anne-Lise Cremona, CEO of luxury bespoke fragrance house Henry Jacques. Anne-Lise discusses how the maison was born nearly a half century ago from her father Henry Cremona's love of the time-honored French perfume traditions. She also talks about taking over as CEO at a critical time and elevating it to new global heights without losing sight of her roots, why today's consumer has a new appetite for fragrances, the process behind creating and naming a new scent, and how the fragrance collaboration with tennis star Rafael Nadal and his wife Maria Perello came about. Plus: Why it took so long to open a Henry Jacques boutique in ParisFeaturing: Anne-Lise Cremona, CEO of Henry Jacques (parfumshenryjacques.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with Ducati North America's CEO Jason Chinnock to discuss the strategy behind the record sales performance of the renowned Italian luxury motorcycle manufacturer and the importance of the U.S. market to the overall business. He also talks about how Ducati is constantly innovates to keep customers engaged, measuring success beyond sales figures, the type of person Ducati appeals to, and why it has no plans to introduce 'affordable' entry-level motorcycles. Plus: How Ducati is gearing up for the electric eraFeaturing: Jason Chinnock, CEO of Ducati North America (ducati.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] and subscribe to The Luxury Item wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Scott Kerr sits down with sisters Mariella and Attilia Avino, who currently run the legendary Palazzo Avino on Italy's Amalfi coast, to talk about growing up in the hospitality world in this glamorous destination, taking the reins of the family business, and how they're keeping the celebrated five-star luxury 'Pink Palace' in a league of its own. They also discuss the challenges of renaming and re-branding an already distinguished hotel, the importance of maintaining the spirit of Italian hospitality and a family-owned feel, how luxury hospitality has changed, who they see as their competition, and ways they're improving the guest experience that give them an edge. Plus: What is The Pink Closet?Featuring: Mariella and Attilia Avino, Co-Owners of Palazzo Avino (palazzoavino.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] to us on Apple Podcasts, and check us out wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

LVMH-owned Champagne house Krug is one of the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world. Manuel Reman, President of Krug, joins Scott Kerr to discuss what's driving the surging demand for Champagne and why the 180-year-old French house has such an extraordinary reputation. He also talks about Krug iD transparency technology, the craftsmanship devoted to producing its iconic flagship Krug Grande Cuvée, tackling climate change, and how Krug's first female cellar master Julie Cavil is upholding the Maison's revered legacy. Plus: Why pairing music with Champagne is an important element of the Krug experienceFeaturing: Manuel Reman, President of Krug Champagne (krug.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected] to us on Apple Podcasts or check us out wherever you get your podcasts. Tell a friend!

Award-winning legendary chef, restauranteur (Aureole, et al.), and hospitality entrepreneur Charlie Palmer sits down with Scott Kerr to discuss his journey from a 23-year-old executive chef at one of New York City's preeminent fine dining institutions to building a company of iconic restaurants and food-focused hotels. He also talks about his signature “Progressive American” cuisine, the challenges of managing his growing brand footprint, why he has maintained so much staying power in the dining scene, how people's shifting views on food have impacted the restaurant business, the launch of his new 'culinary-forward' hotel brand Appellation, and the future of high-end dining. Plus: Is the TV show "The Bear" a realistic portrayal of life in a restaurant kitchen? Featuring: Charlie Palmer, Chef/Restauranteur/Hospitality Entrepreneur (charliepalmer.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Family-owned and -operated Palmaz Vineyards in Napa Valley is regularly voted one of the best wineries in the region and is known for fusing the time-honored art of winemaking and cutting-edge technology. Scott Kerr sits down with Christian Palmaz, COO at Palmaz Vineyards, to discuss his father Dr. Julio Palmaz's journey from inventor of the balloon-expandable heart stent to vineyard owner. Christian also talks about the engineering marvel of the vineyard's 18-story subterranean winery "Cave", the smart technologies and big data analytics used to improve the winemaking process, expanding into cattle operations and creating a Wagyu beef enterprise, why Millennials are their best wine customers, and navigating through climate change and extreme California weather. Plus: Is AI technology eliminating the romance in winemaking?Featuring: Christian Palmaz, Chief Operating Officer at Palmaz Vineyards (palmazvineyards.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this encore episode (published May 10, 2022), Nicolas Girotto, CEO of Bally, talks to Scott Kerr about how the iconic 170-year-old Swiss luxury house is moving to boost relevance and growth these days. Nicolas talks about Bally's recent appointment of LA-based streetwear designer Rhuigi Villaseñor to oversee the creative direction of the brand, balancing heritage and cultural relevance, increasing investments in strong smaller U.S. markets, the brand's enormous digital success in China, exploring the metaverse opportunity, committing to the Fashion Pact and producing eco-friendly products, and the Bally Peak Outlook initiative to clean up Mount Everest and the Himalyas. Plus: Honoring Bally's artisans through a digital portrait campaign Featuring: Nicolas Girotto, CEO of Bally (bally.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]: brilliantcut.substack.comDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this encore episode (published January 18, 2022), Scott Kerr is joined by Shannon Knapp, president & CEO at The Leading Hotels of the World, a prestigious hotel group with a worldwide collection of more than 400 independently owned and operated luxury hotels. Shannon discusses Leading Hotel's business model, its unique selling proposition to potential member hotels and the brand standards these independent hotels must meet to join the collection. She also talks about how it's handling the acceleration of competitive soft branded hotels and Airbnb luxury rentals, the leadership lessons learned from the pandemic, key luxury hospitality trends and insights from its inaugural Luxe Report, and speaking to young wealthy travelers. Plus: Is the metaverse part of Leading Hotel's future?Featuring: Shannon Knapp, President and Chief Executive Officer at The Leading Hotels of the World (lhw.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]: brilliantcut.substack.comDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

CASADEI is one of the largest exporters of Made in Italy luxury shoes all over the world and its designs favored by top celebrities and models. On this episode, Scott Kerr speaks with Arianna Casadei, the third generation of the founding family and newly appointed CEO of the 65-year-old brand. Arianna discusses how growing up in the family business and learning from her father, renowned Italian shoe designer Cesare Casadei, has prepared her for leading the company. She also talks about her top priories in the new role, how women and shoe design have changed since her father elevated the brand's international growth in the 80s, and celebrating 10 years of the bestselling "Blade" heel style. Plus: Casadei goes phygital with a limited run NFTFeaturing: Arianna Casadei, Chief Executive Officer of Casadei (casadei.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Isamaya Ffrench is a globally-renowned British makeup artist known for creating a beauty revolution with her dramatic transformations to some of luxury fashion's buzziest labels and biggest celebrities. She joins Scott Kerr on The Luxury Item to discusses launching and growing her namesake beauty brand ISAMAYA and her unconventional approach to beauty. She also talks about what she learned working alongside iconic luxury fashion brands like Burberry, YSL, Louboutin, and Tom Ford, her drop model strategy of themed collections including the new one with NSFW lipstick packaging, and collaborating with Vivienne Westwood before she passed. Plus: Isamaya on her newest role as the beauty curator for Off-White *WARNING: Some of the content has NSFW themes and may not be suitable for childrenFeaturing: Isamaya Ffrench, Makeup Artist and Founder of ISAMAYA (isamaya.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

LVMH—Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton—is the biggest and most successful luxury goods conglomerate in the world. It's home to a constellation of prestigious luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Dior, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Tiffany & Co, Moët & Chandon, and Séphora to name a few. Scott Kerr sits down with Anish Melwani, chairman & CEO of LVMH for North America to discuss the evolving relationship between luxury and the US consumer and why LVMH is well positioned to navigate through economic uncertainty. He also talks about price increase trends, why luxury is connected to our identity, the role of the physical store and measuring customer impact, the relationship between the maison's creative and business leaders, and the latest on the Aura Blockchain Consortium. Plus: How LVMH approaches Web3 and the metaverseFeaturing: Anish Melwani, Chairman & CEO of LVMH for North America (lvmh.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr speaks to Larry Korman, president and CEO of AKA Hotels & Hotel Residences, a company that has been an integral force in the luxury extended-stay sector. Larry discusses what's driving the explosive growth of hybrid luxury hotel/residence experiences and AKA's rapid expansion in major cities. He also talks about why many celebrities and long-stay business travelers prefer AKA to traditional luxury hotels, how its brand philosophy of "providing calm in chaos" resonates with guests, the importance of capturing a city's spirit when designing new properties, and the shortfalls of established hotel groups getting into the extended-stay space. Plus: Key luxury travel trends that will play out in 2023Featuring: Larry Korman, President and CEO of AKA Hotels & Hotel Residences (stayaka.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

D-J Hageman, vice president of marketing at super-premium tequila brand Patrón Tequila, joins Scott Kerr to discuss why tequila is so hot right now and why it's leading the spirits premiumization trend. He also talks about Patrón inventing the super-premium tequila category in the '90s, the brand's longtime popularity with the hip-hop community, its first incursion into the luxury tequila space, Web3 strategy, and the proliferation of celebrity tequila brands. Plus: Will an agave plant shortage lead to a tequila bust cycle?Featuring: D-J Hageman, Vice President of Marketing at Patrón Tequila (patrontequila.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

On the newest episode of The Luxury Item podcast, Scott Kerr speaks with Tom Marchant, owner and co-founder of award-winning bespoke luxury travel operator Black Tomato. The company has made a name for itself by pulling together expertly tailored, highly imaginative private travel experiences that give clients insider access to some of the world’s farthest-flung destinations. Tom discusses how he built and grew the Black Tomato brand in the face of crippling travel sector disruptions. He also shares a few of Black Tomato's luxury travel trend themes for 2023, (including "Storification and "World Family Robinson"), what's motivating today's wealthy travelers, and how Black Tomato forged a partnership with the James Bond movie franchise to create a curated trip that mimics 007's most iconic adventures. Plus: The importance of being humble, thoughtful, curious, and remarkableFeaturing: Tom Marchant, Owner and Co-Founder of Black Tomato (blacktomato.com)Host:Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone ConsultingAbout The Luxury Item podcast:The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry.Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_incEmail: [email protected]'t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr is joined by Martin de Dreuille, global vice president of marketing for iconic French premium vodka brand Grey Goose. Martin discusses why the super premium vodka market is surging in popularity, facing challenges from the fast-growing whisky and tequila categories, how the brand has evolved with the changing nature of luxury, why it was time for a brand refresh and new creative platform in 2019, the newest "Viva Le Martini" campaign, the role of disruptive local activations in telling the Grey Goose story, and the brand's expanding Web3 marketing investment. Plus: How Grey Goose was born out of a collaboration between a French cognac cellar master and an American entrepreneur Featuring: Martin de Dreuille, Global Vice President of Marketing at Grey Goose (greygoose.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr sits down with Michelle Freyre, global brand president of Clinique, one of the top players in the prestige beauty market and part of The Estée Lauder Companies' portfolio of brands. Her brand oversight also extends to Origins. Michelle discusses joining Clinique at the start of the pandemic and the challenges of navigating through an altered beauty industry. She also talks about competing against indie and D2C disruptor brands, why the iconic Clinique brand is so popular with Gen Z consumers, harnessing the power of TikTok, how its virtual services and digital investments have been paying off, and the company's commitment to diverse representation in its marketing campaigns and in the workplace. Plus: How Clinique is putting a spotlight on underrepresented identities in the metaverse Featuring: Michelle Freyre, Global Brand President at Clinique and Origins (clinique.com and origins.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Famed Japanese luxury jewelry brand Mikimoto is the world leader in cultured pearls. Kentaro Nishimura, chief operating officer at Mikimoto America joins Scott Kerr to discuss the resurgence of pearls and how the 129-year-old Mikimoto brand has gained its worldwide reputation. Kentaro talks about Mikomoto's unique process of cultivating pearls, competing with other jewelers, partnering with avant-garde fashion label Comme des Garçons, why more men are wearing pearl jewelry, and how the aesthetics of its new NYC flagship store pays tribute to the sea. Plus: Are cultured pearls good for the environment? Featuring: Kentaro Nishimura, Chief Operating Officer at Mikimoto America (mikimoto.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Scott Kerr sits down with Paul Altieri, CEO and founder of Bob's Watches, the leading online buyer and seller of pre-owned luxury watches. Paul discusses the booming secondhand luxury watch market, being a first mover in a competitive segment, why resale prices have been falling after skyrocketing growth, what's really driving the Rolex shortage, the process of authenticating pre-owned Rolex watches, and the shifting consumer behavior and demographics that are driving the market. Plus: Why Rolex is an "affordable luxury." Featuring: Paul Altieri, Founder and CEO of Bob's Watches (bobswatches.com); Paul Altieri blog (paulaltieri.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this encore episode of The Luxury Item podcast (published on October 5, 2021), Yves Saint Laurent Beauty U.S. General Manager Laetitia Raoust talks with Scott Kerr about shifting beauty customer habits, online sales strategies and key brand initiatives. Laetitia dives into the importance of Gen Z customers to YSL Beauty and how it's courting them with the launch of its NU collection of makeup-skincare hybrid products. She also discusses how YSL Beauty is using influencers and social media to win over younger audiences, the halo effect of the Yves Saint Laurent brand legacy, the evolving definition of what luxury means in beauty, exploring new tech platforms for the brand, sustainability initiatives, and the strategy behind its buzz-worthy pop-up shops. Plus: Why YSL Beauty is obsessed with "consumer-centricity." Featuring: Laetitia Raoust, General Manager of Yves Saint Laurent Beauty U.S. (yslbeauty.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Newsletter: brilliantcut.substack.com Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this encore episode of The Luxury Item (published November 30, 2021) Scott Kerr is joined by Andrew Haarsager, head of Cartier's Retail Innovation Lab, to discuss how it designs and tests new forms of retail experiences for the French luxury jeweler and watchmaker, both in and beyond the boutique. Andrew also talks about Cartier's approach to the role of retail in this new world, creating an in-store vitrine to display holograms of select high jewelry pieces, working with Cartier's internal 'Liaison' program for sales associates, why heritage brands must learn to speak in new ways to younger consumers, and why Cartier is not jumping so quickly into the avatar economy. Plus: What the luxury boutique will look like in 10 years Featuring: Andrew Haarsager, Head of Retail Innovation Lab at Cartier (cartier.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Newsletter: brilliantcut.substack.com Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

In this encore episode of The Luxury Item (published February 15, 2022), Stefano Canali, president and CEO at Italian luxury menswear brand Canali, talks about how the 88-year-old company is shaping its future with new investments and innovations. Stefano discusses the inspiration behind its F/W22 collection, why formalwear is not dead despite the pandemic-induced working-from-homewear shift, the lessons learned from past challenges that helped him navigate the company though the COVID-19 crisis, and how the company's founding values and Italian DNA continue to drive its vision and style. He also points to a full slate of major projects in 2022 including re-platforming its e-commerce, a new store concept, a more robust CRM program and expansion in China. Plus: Thoughts on Canali entering the metaverse any time soon Featuring: Stefano Canali, President and Chief Executive Officer at Canali (canali.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Newsletter: brilliantcut.substack.com Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Silvio Ursini, Bulgari Group executive vice president in charge of Bulgari Hotels & Resorts division joins Scott Kerr to discuss the steady and calculated expansion of the Italian jeweler's ultra-luxury hotels. Silvio talks about the recent opening of its seventh property in Paris and breaking from the usual clichés of Parisian architecture, how ultra high net worth customers are keeping its hotel business strong, and approaching each hotel as "jewels." He also discusses the upside of being "outsider" in the hotel industry and exploring Web3 opportunities. Plus: Why fashion brands often fail in the hospitality business Featuring: Silvio Ursini, Bulgari Group Executive Vice President, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts (bulgarihotels.com) Host: Scott Kerr, Founder & President of Silvertone Consulting About The Luxury Item podcast: The Luxury Item is a podcast on the business of luxury and the people and companies that are shaping the future of the luxury industry. Stay Connected: Twitter: @theluxuryitem, @scott_kerr, @silvertone_inc Email: [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!