Despite being the most counterfeited fashion brand in the world, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton reported a 30 percent increase in 2006 profits to €1.88 billion. “ The excellent performance in 2006 illustrates the vitality of our major brands which continue to strengthen and gain market share,” chairman Bernard Arnault said in a statement. “The year also confirmed the strong potential of our high growth rising star brands and the Group’s leading position in emerging markets.”

The Fendi brand demonstrated enormous growth, while Marc Jacobs and Donna Karan also showed strong results. Meanwhile, the Louis Vuitton brand is performing well in new markets and there will be more store openings in the Ukraine and Russia. Among the group’s most profitable brands were Louis Vuitton, Parfums Christian Dior, Moët & Chandon, Hennessy and Tag Heuer.

The fashion and leather goods division achieved its biggest growth in Asia with 19 percent, followed swiftly by Europe with 18 percent. Japan recorded a very modest growth of 1 percent.