LensCrafters 2012 Annual Report Download - page 126

ANNUAL REPORT 2012> 40 |
An analysis of global socio-economic trends and data reveals certain fundamental drivers,
including evolving demographic changes in the global population, overall penetration
of products in both developed and emerging markets and a shift in demand towards
premium and luxury brands, especially in the so-called “gateway and mega cities” and
high potential channels such as travel retail and department stores.
Demographic trends
According to international estimates, in the next decade approximately 500 million
additional individuals will be characterized as vision correction wearers and a total of 4.8
billion individuals will continue to require some form of vision correction aid. Luxottica
is positioned to capitalize on these trends, with its vertically integrated business model
and geographic diversification, and will continue to invest by expanding its specialty store
chains internationally in both the optical (LensCrafters and OPSM in particular) and sun
segments (Sunglass Hut) in which it is already a leader.
Emerging markets
The growth opportunities in emerging markets are based on the greater purchasing
power of the upper-middle class, the proliferation of luxury stores and rising consumer
recognition of premium and luxury brand culture. Emerging markets were an important
contributor to Luxottica’s 2012 full-year results where net sales grew 26 percent at constant
exchange rates over 2011 performance in these markets. Luxottica believes this impressive
trend will proceed through continued investments in people and brands in these markets,
as well as through acquisitions and investments expanding existing Retail channels. In
particular, Luxottica is focused on markets in Southeast Asia, specifically in Indonesia and
Thailand, where it plans to develop a direct presence.
Premium luxury accessories power growth
Accessories have driven luxury consumption and this positive trend is expected to
continue into the future. The concentration of wealth in emerging markets will also lead to
an increase in demand for luxury items and accessories. Luxottica aims to create services
that add value to the premium purchasing experience, along with developing greater
personal attention, in order to meet the needs and expectations of more sophisticated
and international consumers. Double-digit growth in the premium and luxury segments
is projected in 2013. The partnership with Giorgio Armani, which commenced in 2013,
represents another major step in this growth plan. In 2013, with the acquisition of Alain
Mikli, the Group set up its Atelier Division. The Atelier Division includes the Oliver Peoples,
Paul Smith, Alain Mikli and Starck Eyes brands and aims to become a leader in an eyewear
segment that is becoming increasingly important.
New sales channels
New sales channels are growing faster than traditional retail. Department stores, in particular,
remain the primary point of reference for premium sunglass consumers and offer significant
growth potential. Today, sunglasses have the highest growth rate of all accessories despite
the limited space allocated in department stores to the category. Travel retail has been
9. 2013 OUTLOOK