The Business of Watches Podcast: Audemars Piguet CEO Ilaria Resta Drives Double-Digit Sales Increase For Brand's 150th Anniversary Year
In a significant year marking Audemars Piguet's 150th anniversary, Ilaria Resta, the CEO, successfully navigated various challenges to achieve a double-digit sales increase of 12% compared to the previous year, resulting in over CHF 2.3 billion in sales. This growth is notable given the backdrop of U.S. tariffs, high gold prices, a strong Swiss franc, and a general downturn in the luxury watch market, where Swiss watch exports are projected to decline for the second consecutive year. The discussion highlights key product releases for the year, including an innovative perpetual calendar and the groundbreaking RD#5. Resta elaborates on her strategies for managing production and evolving the brand to appeal to a new generation of clients. The podcast delves into the unique aspects of the watch industry and the necessary steps to attract future consumers, emphasizing the importance of adaptation and innovation in a competitive market.
