Jay-Z Sells 50% Stake in Ace Spades to LVMH

Photo Courtesy of Ravie B

Shawn JAY-Z Carter is pleased to announce a partnership with Moët Hennessy as they acquire a 50% stake in Armand de Brignac (Ace of Spades). The partnership reflects a shared vision between Moët Hennessy and Shawn JAY-Z Carter for the future of this iconic Maison.

With its striking look and natural appeal to a global and diverse luxury consumer, Armand de Brignac has brought unprecedented innovation and energy to the Champagne category since 2006. It has been a worldwide success with a strong presence in North America, Asia, and Europe, and over 500 000 bottles sold in 2019, in particular with an outstanding position in the high energy channels.

“For years we have been following the fantastic success of Armand de Brignac and admiring their ability to challenge some of the rules of the Champagne category. Often referred to as “Ace of Spades”, Armand de Brignac breaks barriers and reflects contemporary luxury, while preserving the traditions of the Champagne terroirs. Today, we are incredibly proud to be partnering with them and believe that the combination of our Champagne experience and international network coupled with Shawn JAY-Z Carter’s vision, the strength of the Armand de Brignac brand and quality of its range of prestige cuvées will allow us to take the business to new heights across the world”, says Philippe Schaus, President & CEO of Moët Hennessy.

“I’m proud to welcome the Arnault family into ours through this partnership that began with Alexandre Arnault and continued with his father Bernard Arnault and Philippe Schaus, at my home in Los Angeles. It is a partnership that has felt familiar the entire time. We are confident that the sheer power of the Moët Hennessy global distribution framework, its unparalleled portfolio strength and its long-established track record of excellence in developing luxury brands will give Armand de Brignac the commercial power it needs to grow and flourish even further” says Shawn JAY-Z Carter.

The partnership will be anchored in the acquisition of a 50% stake in Armand de Brignac by Moët Hennessy as well as in a global distribution agreement. The 50%-50% structure is an essential element of this alliance and ensures that each of the two partners wants to bring its strengths and expertise to ensure the success of this long-term alliance.

“We are going into this partnership on equal terms together with JAY-Z and his family and with the same conviction that we are only at the beginning of a wonderful story. Together, we will lay a strong path forward to firmly cement Armand de Brignac as a luxury icon for current and future generations of customers”, concludes Philippe Schaus.

After buying the company in 2014 for $30M, Jay-Z increased annual sales from 60k to 500k bottles in 2019. Ace of Spades costs $13 to make but sells for $225 at wholesale — a 94% profit margin.