Lutz Bethge is Managing Director of Montblanc International GmbH, a atitle he once shared with Wolff Heinrichsdorff, who has since relocated to Asia to continue doing work for the Richemont group. “It was an unusual arrangement,” laughs Bethge, “and a lot of people wondered why Montblanc had two managing directors; but we’ve been working together for such a long time and we’ve always had such fun together. It was, in fact, a very positive working relationship and one which really helped shape the overall direction for Montblanc.” Although he laments losing his “clone”, it’s clear that Bethge possesses both the acumen and strength to go solo.

An Economic Science MBA-holder from the University of Berlin, Bethge’s career with Montblanc International began 17 years ago when he met with Norbert Platt (the legendary CEO who led Montblanc to success from 1987 to 2004 and is now CEO of Compagnie Financière Richemont SA).

“Montblanc company believes not just in the creation of things that write or fine instruments, but more of things that remind you of the important things in life. Like writing letters,” he explains. “It is a sign of giving people time – which is the most important thing. We live our lives at a hectic pace, so one needs to look for balance, like love and family.

“Our focus was initially on creating writing instruments alone, with the craftsmanship put into each Montblanc pen being nothing short of exquisite. It then reached the pinnacle with the debut of our Meisterstück collection, which signalled the start of our pens being perceived to be as much jewel as it is writing instrument.

 

“You will see, over the next hundred years, Montblanc moving more and more into the realms of watches and jewellery...which has been our direction anyway for the past decade. But it doesn’t mean we forget our roots,” Bethge reassures. “Montblanc will stay true to its heritage but we also need to develop and grow accordingly.” Bethge and his team are also working on a new look for the 330 Montblanc boutiques around the world.

“We have renovation plans, yes, as we realise our women customers are growing in greater numbers,” he says. “I’d like the stores to be spaces where they feel comfortable in and where our full product ranges can be showcased in style. You won’t see small retail spaces anymore. The new stores will be expansive...nothing below 100 sq m. I think it’s a good way to see what the world of Montblanc has to offer, don’t you think?” asks Bethge smiling.

 

 

 

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