Sephora expands across the border

SAN FRANCISCO and MEXICO CITY Sephora, which is owned by LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, is establishing a retail presence in Mexico in 2011 via a joint venture agreement with Grupo Axo.

Sephora and Grupo Axo, a strategic partner with more than 15 years of experience in the Mexican market, will begin operations with two store openings in the second half of 2011, and "significant additional store openings" slated for each year thereafter, according to the companies.

The locations will be a "unique retail experience," and will offer an extensive selection of new and established global brands, as well as local favorites and new finds, tailored to the Mexican consumer, stated David Suliteanu, president and CEO of Sephora Americas.

The deal further signifies Sephora's expansion intent in the Latin American market following LVMH's acquisition of a majority stake in Sack's, an online retailer of fragrances, cosmetics and toiletries in Brazil, earlier this year.