What's Happening?
LVMH's Institut des Métiers d’Excellence (IME) is actively training a new generation of artisans and creators in France. The IME collaborates with prestigious schools to offer a work-study program that
combines classroom education with practical experience in LVMH's workshops and boutiques. This initiative aims to promote and preserve rare skills essential to LVMH's value chain, including leather goods, couture, jewelry, and more. In 2025, the IME welcomed 220 new apprentices, continuing its growth since its inception in 2014. The program is free for students, providing them with masterclasses, language courses, and soft skills training. The IME's efforts are crucial as a significant number of artisans are expected to retire by 2030, necessitating the training of new talent to maintain these specialized skills.
Why It's Important?
The IME's training program is vital for sustaining the craftsmanship that underpins LVMH's luxury products. As the demand for skilled artisans remains high, with over 4,500 positions offered in 2025 alone, the program ensures a steady pipeline of talent. This initiative not only supports LVMH's business needs but also contributes to the broader luxury industry by preserving traditional skills that are at risk of being lost. The program's success highlights the importance of investing in long-term skill development to meet future industry demands. By providing free training, LVMH is also making these career paths accessible to a wider range of individuals, potentially diversifying the workforce in these specialized fields.
What's Next?
As the IME continues to expand, it will likely play a crucial role in addressing the generational shift in the artisan workforce. With many artisans set to retire by 2030, the IME's focus on training new talent is essential for the continuity of these skills. The program's growth may also inspire similar initiatives in other sectors of the luxury industry, emphasizing the importance of skill preservation. Additionally, the IME's model of combining education with practical experience could serve as a blueprint for other industries facing similar challenges in workforce development.
Beyond the Headlines
The IME's approach to training highlights the cultural significance of preserving traditional craftsmanship in the face of modern industrialization. By valuing and investing in these skills, LVMH is not only securing its own future but also contributing to the cultural heritage of craftsmanship. This initiative underscores the ethical responsibility of large corporations to support and sustain the communities and traditions that form the backbone of their industries.
