Let’s be honest, most of us will never become billionaires. But what if you could apply the same genius-level business strategies that built Bernard Arnault’s fortune and level up your own game? The man behind LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) didn’t just get lucky, he played the business world like a grandmaster chess champion. And today, we’re going to break down six of his top tactics so you can apply them to your own hustle (without needing a $200,000 Hermès bag to prove it).
1. Own Luxury, Don’t Buy It
Most people spend money on luxury brands. Arnault? He buys the companies that make those brands. Instead of blowing your paycheck on a designer handbag, think like an investor, own a piece of the brand itself. Stocks, business shares, or even starting your own premium product line can set you on the right path.
Takeaway: Stop being a consumer; become an owner.
Pro Tip: If you’re serious about understanding the luxury market, grab a copy of Luxury Strategy: Break the Rules of Marketing to Build Luxury Brands (available on Amazon). This book is a goldmine for anyone who wants to master the art of high-end branding.
2. Buy Struggling Businesses and Turn Them into Gold
Arnault made his billions by spotting struggling luxury brands and transforming them into global powerhouses. His playbook? Acquire undervalued companies, inject smart branding, and let exclusivity drive demand.
Takeaway: Look for overlooked opportunities and turn them into something extraordinary. Whether it’s real estate, an e-commerce store, or a local business, the key is seeing potential where others see failure.
3. Create Scarcity (Even If It’s Fake)
Ever wonder why luxury brands “run out of stock”? It’s a calculated move. Limited editions, exclusivity, and the illusion of scarcity make people desperate to buy. Arnault perfected this strategy, making his products feel like rare treasures.
Takeaway: Make your brand (or skills) seem exclusive. Whether you’re launching a product, a service, or a personal brand, hype matters. If everyone can have it, nobody wants it.
4. Control the Story (Even When It’s Fiction)
Arnault isn’t just selling handbags, he’s selling a dream. Luxury brands don’t market products; they market status, power, and emotion. Want proof? Ever notice how high-end brands rarely mention price in their ads? They sell you on lifestyle instead.
Takeaway: Your brand is the story you tell. Whether you’re selling products, services, or yourself, control the narrative. Make people feel something, and they’ll buy into your vision.
5. Patience is a Billionaire’s Best Friend
Most people expect overnight success. Arnault spent decades building LVMH into the empire it is today. His strategy? Play the long game. When everyone else chases trends, he focuses on building timeless value.
Takeaway: Stop expecting instant results. Whether you’re growing a business, a personal brand, or your investment portfolio, patience will always beat short-term greed.
6. Surround Yourself with Power Players
Arnault didn’t build his empire alone. He carefully curated a network of top-tier designers, business executives, and strategists who knew how to execute his vision. The lesson? Your circle determines your success.
Takeaway: If you’re hanging out with unmotivated people, your ambition will die. Find mentors, masterminds, and successful peers who push you to think bigger.
Action Step: Read Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi (grab it on Amazon), it’s one of the best books on networking and building powerful relationships.
So, What’s Your Next Move?
Bernard Arnault’s strategies aren’t magic, they’re repeatable, learnable, and ridiculously effective. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an investor, or just someone who wants to stop trading time for money, these lessons can change your game.
Question for You: Which of these tactics are you going to implement first? Drop a comment below and let’s talk business!