Image for Covid-19: French luxury goods group to convert perfume factories to make hand sanitiser

Covid-19: French luxury goods group to convert perfume factories to make hand sanitiser

LVMH released a statement committing that production facilities for its perfume and cosmetics brands would be used to “to produce large quantities of hydroalcoholic gel”, amid a global shortage caused by the coronavirus outbreak

LVMH released a statement committing that production facilities for its perfume and cosmetics brands would be used to “to produce large quantities of hydroalcoholic gel”, amid a global shortage caused by the coronavirus outbreak

Louis Vuitton’s parent company LVMH has pledged to dedicate its perfume factories to manufacturing hand sanitiser to meet an anticipated shortfall amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the New York Times, the company plans to produce as much as 12,000 tonnes this week, which it will supply free of charge to the French hospitals battling the country’s coronavirus outbreak. A particular focus will reportedly be given to the 39 public hospitals in Paris.

"How different the world would be if every day we read Positive News. This is the future of journalism." – Marisa G. via Twitter Subscribe to Positive News magazine

Shoppers and healthcare settings alike have flocked to stock up in an attempt to ward off the Covid-19 virus. With UK supermarket sales of hand sanitiser soaring by as much as 255 per cent in the four weeks leading up to 23 February alone, there have been reports of bottles being sold on eBay for up to 50 times their original retail price.

“Through this initiative, LVMH intends to help address the risk of a lack of product in France and enable a greater number of people to continue to take the right action to protect themselves from the spread of the virus,” a company statement read.

“LVMH will continue to honour this commitment for as long as necessary, in connection with the French health authorities.”

Image: Siora Photography

Read more: Positive responses to coronavirus

This is part of our ‘Positive responses to coronavirus’ series: