Founded 160 years ago, Royal van Lent enjoys a leading market position. It designs and builds custom mega-yachts under the Feadship brand, one of the most exclusive and prestigious brands in the world for motor-yachts measuring over 50 meters.

The custom-built ultra-luxury mega-yacht sector offers strong global growth prospects. By targeting exclusively ultra-high net worth individuals, Royal van Lent offers an outstanding growth opportunity that is resistant to economic cycles. Since 2000, the worldwide order book for custom-built luxury yachts measuring over 50 meters has grown by more than 20% per annum.

LVMH will work closely with Royal van Lent's management team, and is committed to the continued, long-term development of the company and the Feadship brand. LVMH will leverage its very high end client network and global reach, both in developed and emerging countries, to accelerate the growth of Royal van Lent and the Feadship brand worldwide. The objective is to consolidate the company's leadership while maintaining its unique heritage, exclusive positioning and exceptional craftsmanship. Dick van Lent will continue to head the company.

Antonio Belloni, Group Managing Director of LVMH, commented: "This acquisition is an outstanding opportunity for LVMH to welcome to the group as prestigious a business as Royal van Lent, which is well-established in the ultra-luxury market. We are confident about its growth potential in the exclusive mega-yacht sector, a market with sustainable growth prospects."

Dick van Lent, Chief Executive Officer of Royal van Lent, added: "I am delighted that Royal van Lent will become part of the LVMH family, which has a proven track record in preserving the heritage of prestigious brands, with high quality products, while positioning them for successful global growth. We look forward to benefiting from the support and strategic leadership of the world's leading luxury goods company. I am pleased to be involved in the continued development of Royal van Lent, a company with 160 years of history in yacht construction, as part of the LVMH family."

The works council of Royal van Lent has been asked to render its advice in respect of the intended transaction and the relevant trade unions have been informed. The intended transaction will be subject to clearance of the relevant competition authorities.

About LVMH

LVMH MoA"t Hennessy Louis Vuitton is the world's leading luxury products group. The Group is represented in Wines and Spirits by a portfolio of brands that includes MoA"t & Chandon, Dom PA(C)rignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, ChActeau d'Yquem, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Belvedere Vodka, Chopin, 10 Cane, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Green Point, Cape Mentelle, Newton. Its Fashion and Leather Goods division includes Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury brand, as well as Celine, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, StefanoBi as well as eLUXURY, the authoritative online source for luxury goods on the Internet. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Parfums Kenzo, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh). LVMH is also active in selective retailing through DFS, Sephora in Europe and in the United States, Le Bon MarchA(C) and la Samaritaine. LVMH's Watches and Jewelry division comprises TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Christian Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred, Hublot and De Beers Diamond Jewellers Limited, a joint venture created with the world's leading diamond group.

About Royal van Lent

Royal van Lent Shipyard B.V. is a Dutch incorporated company, which designs and custom builds luxury mega-yachts. The mega-yachts are over 50-meters long and combine unparalleled craftsmanship and the most cutting edge design techniques. Throughout its 160 years of existence, Royal van Lent has developed a unique level of expertise in the mega yacht segment, having manufactured over 800 yachts since the Company's inception. All yachts are manufactured in the Netherlands and sold under the exclusive Feadship brand (www.feadship.nl), one of the most prestigious mega-yacht brands in the world.

SOURCE: LVMH Moet Hennessy

Analysts and investors: 
LVMH 
Chris Hollis, + 33 1 44 13 21 22 
or 
Media: 
France: 
DGM Conseil 
Michel Calzaroni/ Olivier Labesse / Sonia Fellmann 
+ 33 1 40 70 11 89 
or 
UK: 
M : Communications 
Hugh Morrison, + 44 207 153 15 34 
or 
Italy: 
Financial and Corporate Press 
Community Group 
Auro Palomba / Roberto Patriarca, +39 02 89 40 42 31 
or 
US: 
Kekst & Company 
James Fingeroth / Victoria Weld / Molly Morse 
+1 212-521-48 00

Phoebe Philo comments: "This is a really exciting step for me to be taking, with what could be seen as one of the most promising brands of the industry. I can't wait to step back into the studio and begin creating designs which will reinvigorate the brand, get customers excited about the product and work with a team that are incredibly serious and passionate about their work."

Marco Gobbetti is appointed President and Managing Director. He replaces Serge Brunschwig who becomes Chief Operating Officer of Dior Couture having made a very significant contribution to Celine. Gobbetti, currently President and Managing Director of GIVENCHY, will aim to reinforce the creative content and image of the brand whilst accelerating its growth.

Since February 2004, Marco Gobbetti has led Givenchy Couture, working alongside Riccardo Tisci, Creative Director, to reposition the brand and lay solid foundations for future growth. Marco Gobbetti will continue to oversee Givenchy Couture until his successor is announced.

Pierre-Yves Roussel, Chairman and CEO of the LVMH Fashion Division commented: "I am thrilled to have Phoebe, who is one of the most talented designers today, joining Celine and, under her creative leadership and together with Marco Gobbetti as CEO, LVMH is fully committed to developing the potential of the brand within the group".

Marco Gobbetti commented: "I am delighted to work with Phoebe on this exciting new project. The brand has enormous potential with its global presence and the quality of its team. "

The current Creative Director, Ivana Omazic will be leaving the CELINE business to pursue other interests. Ivana, has worked with CELINE for three years and the company would like to thank her for her significant contribution to the ongoing modernisation of the brand, and wishes her every success in the future.

About LVMH

LVMH MoA"t Hennessy Louis Vuitton is the world's leading luxury goods group. The Group is represented in Wines and Spirits by a portfolio of brands that includes MoA"t & Chandon, Dom PA(C)rignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, ChActeau d'Yquem, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Belvedere Vodka, Chopin, 10 Cane, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Green Point, Cape Mentelle, Newton.

Its Fashion and Leather Goods division includes Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury brand, as well as Celine, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, StefanoBi as well as eLUXURY, the authoritative online source for luxury goods on the Internet. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Parfums Kenzo, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh). LVMH is also active in selective retailing through DFS, Sephora in Europe and the United States, Le Bon MarchA(C) and la Samaritaine. LVMH's Watches and Jewelry division comprises TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Christian Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred, Hublot and De Beers Diamond Jewellers Limited, a joint venture created with the world's leading diamond group.

SOURCE: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton

Analysts and investors : 
LVMH 
Chris Hollis 
+ 33 1 44 13 21 22 
or 
Media : 
France : 
DGM Conseil 
Michel Calzaroni /Olivier Labesse / Sonia Fellmann 
+ 33 1 40 70 11 89 
or 
UK : 
M : Communications 
Hugh Morrison 
+ 44 207 153 15 34 
or 
Italy : 
Community Group 
Financial and Corporate Press 
Auro Palomba / Roberto Patriarca 
+39 02 89 40 42 31 
or 
US : 
Kekst & Company 
James Fingeroth / Victoria Weld / Molly Morse 
212-521-4800

Phoebe Philo is one of the world's most respected designers, credited as being at the heart of the revival of the Chloe brand while its Creative Director (2001 to 2006). Philo will work exclusively for Celine, starting in October 2008. During her time at Chloe Philo masterminded the introduction of new ranges including leather accessories which at the time of her departure in 2006 made up a large per cent of the brand's global turnover.

Phoebe Philo comments: "This is a really exciting step for me to be taking, with what could be seen as one of the most promising brands of the industry. I can't wait to step back into the studio and begin creating designs which will reinvigorate the brand, get customers excited about the product and work with a team that are incredibly serious and passionate about their work."

Marco Gobbetti is appointed President and Managing Director. He replaces Serge Brunschwig who becomes Chief Operating Officer of Dior Couture having made a very significant contribution to Celine. Gobbetti, currently President and Managing Director of GIVENCHY, will aim to reinforce the creative content and image of the brand whilst accelerating its growth.

Since February 2004, Marco Gobbetti has led Givenchy Couture, working alongside Riccardo Tisci, Creative Director, to reposition the brand and lay solid foundations for future growth. Marco Gobbetti will continue to oversee Givenchy Couture until his successor is announced.

Pierre-Yves Roussel, Chairman and CEO of the LVMH Fashion Division commented: "I am thrilled to have Phoebe, who is one of the most talented designers today, joining Celine and, under her creative leadership and together with Marco Gobbetti as CEO, LVMH is fully committed to developing the potential of the brand within the group."

Marco Gobbetti commented: "I am delighted to work with Phoebe on this exciting new project. The brand has enormous potential with its global presence and the quality of its team."

The current Creative Director, Ivana Omazic will be leaving the Celine business to pursue other interests. Ivana, has worked with Celine for three years and the company would like to thank her for her significant contribution to the ongoing modernisation of the brand, and wishes her every success in the future.

About LVMH

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton is the world's leading luxury goods group. The Group is represented in Wines and Spirits by a portfolio of brands that includes Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, Chateau d'Yquem, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Belvedere Vodka, Chopin, 10 Cane, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Green Point, Cape Mentelle, Newton.

Its Fashion and Leather Goods division includes Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury brand, as well as Celine, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, StefanoBi as well as eLUXURY, the authoritative online source for luxury goods on the Internet. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Parfums Kenzo, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh). LVMH is also active in selective retailing through DFS, Sephora in Europe and the United States, Le Bon Marche and la Samaritaine. LVMH's Watches and Jewelry division comprises TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Christian Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred, Hublot and De Beers Diamond Jewellers Limited, a joint venture created with the world's leading diamond group.

Nadine Vogt, T: +44-207-199-3695, email n.vogt@uk.celine.com

Phoebe Philo comments: "This is a really exciting step for me to be taking, with what could be seen as one of the most promising brands of the industry. I can't wait to step back into the studio and begin creating designs which will reinvigorate the brand, get customers excited about the product and work with a team that are incredibly serious and passionate about their work."

Furthermore, Marco Gobbetti is appointed President and Managing Director of CELINE. He replaces Serge Brunschwig who becomes Chief Operating Officer of Dior Couture having made a very significant contribution to Celine. Gobbetti, currently President and Managing Director of GIVENCHY, will aim to reinforce the creative content and image of the brand whilst accelerating its growth.

Since February 2004, Marco Gobbetti has led Givenchy Couture, working alongside Riccardo Tisci, Creative Director, to reposition the brand and lay solid foundations for future growth. Marco Gobbetti will continue to oversee Givenchy Couture until his successor is announced.

Pierre-Yves Roussel, Chairman and CEO of the LVMH Fashion Division commented: "I am thrilled to have Phoebe, who is one of the most talented designers today, joining Celine, and under her creative leadership and together with Marco Gobbetti as CEO, LVMH is fully committed to developing the potential of the brand within the group."

Marco Gobbetti commented: "I am delighted to work with Phoebe on this exciting new project. The brand has enormous potential with its global presence and the quality of its team."

The current Creative Director, Ivana Omazic will be leaving the CELINE business to pursue other interests. Ivana, has worked with CELINE for three years and the company would like to thank her for her significant contribution to the ongoing modernisation of the brand, and wishes her every success in the future.

About LVMH

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton is the world's leading luxury goods group. The Group is represented in Wines and Spirits by a portfolio of brands that includes Moet & Chandon, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, Chateau d'Yquem, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Belvedere Vodka, Chopin, 10 Cane, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Green Point, Cape Mentelle, Newton.

Its Fashion and Leather Goods division includes Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury brand, as well as Celine, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, StefanoBi as well as eLUXURY, the authoritative online source for luxury goods on the Internet. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Parfums Kenzo, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh). LVMH is also active in selective retailing through DFS, Sephora in Europe and the United States, Le Bon Marche and la Samaritaine. LVMH's Watches and Jewelry division comprises TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Christian Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred, Hublot and De Beers Diamond Jewellers Limited, a joint venture created with the world's leading diamond group.

SOURCE LVMH