【Neuchâtel, S】Bulgari CEO: Luxury Market Navigates Challenges, Tariffs, and Baby Boomers

by

Editor’s Note

In this interview, Jean-Christophe Babin, the CEO who has successfully repositioned Bulgari, addresses key challenges and strategies for the luxury jeweler. He discusses market capacity, the impact of US tariffs, and the evolving focus on baby boomers as a vital consumer segment.

BILANZ 10 BILDER GESPERRT BIS ende 2025 KEINE NUTZUNG OHNE RÜCKSPRACHE MIT BILANZ Jean-Christophe Babin
CEO of Bulgari

Can the market absorb so much Bulgari jewelry, Mr. Babin?
Jean-Christophe Babin on US tariffs, the jewelry business, and baby boomers as a new target group.
Published on September 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM
Jean-Christophe Babin is considered one of the most distinguished managers in the luxury goods industry. In 13 years, he has successfully repositioned the Roman jeweler Bulgari.
Determination and vision characterize Jean-Christophe Babin. Since 2013, the Frenchman has led the Roman heritage house Bulgari and has steered the brand into an unprecedented growth phase: revenue has more than doubled during this period, and Bulgari is now among the most profitable brands in the LVMH portfolio. Particularly with the award-winning Octo Finissimo line, he has established Bulgari internationally in watchmaking and secured its place in the top tier. Simultaneously, the jewelry and hotel segments grew rapidly. As CEO of LVMH Watches, Babin also bears responsibility for TAG Heuer, Zenith, and Hublot – a rare concentration of brand leadership. The conversation with him took place at the freshly renovated headquarters of Bulgari Watches in Neuchâtel.

On Tariffs and Market Strategy

What went through your mind when Donald Trump announced a 39% punitive tariff on Switzerland on August 1st?

“I was very surprised, but now I hope it won’t remain that way. The last few months have shown that things can sometimes change very quickly. There is hope that at the end of the negotiations, we will reach EU levels. That would be somewhat easier to digest, but of course still significantly more than in the past.”

What immediate measures have you taken?

“We haven’t made any changes initially. We have some inventory in the USA and are not forced to react immediately. Talks are ongoing, and we are monitoring the situation very closely, but for now, we are preparing for the 39% to remain and are examining various options to make the best decision.”
Iris Kuhn Spogat
Full article: View original |
⏰ Published on: September 25, 2025