Louis Vuitton 2002 Annual Report Download - page 15

For LVMH, the notion of sustainable development goes beyond the social, societal and envi-
ronmental aspects legitimately mandated by legislation a little more than a year ago. There is
no facet of our business that is not equally concerned by these three fundamental dimensions
that form the regulatory basis with which we make it a point of honor to comply. Our
customers correctly demand complete sustainable safety. Our suppliers hope to form a lasting
partnership, to no one’s surprise. Our employees want continuing training at the very least.
Our shareholders expect, and we owe them, sustainable profitability. Local government
authorities and associations convey the demands of citizens for permanent corporate respon-
sibility. We could cite many other examples without covering the scope of this very important
issue. However, it is easy for us, perhaps more than for others, to define the boundaries,
respect the principles and live the reality of sustainable development.
This is because we do not destroy. To the contrary, we transform, we improve, and we
create value by investing in the infinitely inexhaustible resources of time and talent. This
is why the values, convictions and actions embodied in what today is known as sustainable
growth are more than familiar to the men and women of the LVMH group. They are an
integral part of our heritage. They are part of a tradition that dates back to the beginnings
of our brands, and a culture that is the very essence of our products and business lines.
They are part of a strategic continuity that has born fruit from the time Louis Vuitton and
Moët Hennessy merged. Whether they work in spirits, perfumes, watchmaking, fashion
or leather goods, each of the companies of our Group draw from a long history of dynamic
growth and brand image. From this history, our companies draw a touch of eternity and
a strong sense of security. This mixture of experience and excellence is fertile ground for sus-
taining our growth and management. The preservation of our natural resources, corporate
responsibility, economic ethics, social progress, attention to the values of fairness, common
interest and transparency, a consideration for people, freedom and human dignity, as well as
personal development and health, in every decision, are the founding principles in a doctrine
that prevents us from becoming alienated from humanity.
LVM H celebrated its fifteenth anniversary in 2002. 180 months is not a very long time for
a portfolio of exceptional brands, some of which have already lasted several hundred. 5,500
days is a long time for the rising stars that are reaching their peak. By taking the long-term
view, the time necessary for successes and achievements, we can reconcile the diversity of
our timetables. In the same way, we willingly accept and share the collective obligation to
save our planet and achieve social progress. This chapter of our annual report is, therefore,
not simply a progress report, a snapshot of the past, nor is it simply a promise or guarantee
for the future. It is a declaration of the permanence of our commitments. For us, sustainable
development is not a passing fashion, but rather a source of naturally renewable energy.
Under the auspices of sustainable development, financial performance, social progress,
environmental protection and managerial transparency all intersect and become stronger.
SUCCESS IS CONSTRUCTED OVER THE LONG TERM
PASSIONATE ABOUT CREATIVITY A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPM ENT
PASSIONATE ABOUT CREATIVITY, A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT• 13