FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Still curious about how we work? Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about Monte-Carlo Lifestyle licensing opportunities. Our team remains at your disposal for any additional information.
ABOUT OUR BRANDS
What is the origin of Monte-Carlo Lifestyle brands?
Monte-Carlo Lifestyle brands were founded in 2001 by Baron Christian Louis de Massy, a member of Monaco’s princely family and nephew of Prince Rainier III. In 2005, he created the “Monte-Carlo Lifestyle” Civil Society to manage his expanding brand portfolio. In 2018, Baron Christian Louis de Massy entrusted the legacy of these prestigious brands to private ownership. Today, they remain authentic brands from Monaco, Monte-Carlo under the Monte-Carlo Lifestyle company.
How do Monte-Carlo Lifestyle brands differ from other brands using the ‘Monte-Carlo’ and ‘Monaco’ names?
All our brands are authentic Monaco brands, originating from the Princely family through Baron Christian Louis de Massy, nephew of Rainier III, son of Princess Antoinette and grandson of Anthony Noghès, founder of the Monaco Grand Prix. This direct princely provenance gives our brands unmatched legitimacy and authenticity in the market.
Which brands are available for licensing?
Our portfolio includes seven distinctive brands:
- Monaco Lifestyle: L’Art de Vivre Monaco!
- Noblesse Oblige Monte-Carlo: Tasteful simplicity, a noble requirement
- Monte-Carlo Gourmet: Joyful flavor
- Monte-Carlo Club: Don’t just dream it. Live it.
- Monte-Carlo Attitude: Expect the best
- Jardins de Monaco: Taste elegance in every sip
- Riviera Lifestyle: In the French Riviera, we live in color!
Which product categories are available for licensing?
Our brands cover a wide range of categories, including:
- Apparel and fashion accessories
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Food products and beverages
- Home accessories and decoration
- Luggage and leather goods
- Jewelry and watches
- Eyewear and optical accessories
- Beach and leisure items
Each brand is designed for specific categories, allowing optimal alignment between your offer and the brand identity.
For which territories are the brands available?
Our brands are available in numerous territories around the world. The availability depends on several factors, including existing agreements and the brand’s development strategy. We generally grant licenses, after discussing and agreeing on the collaboration with our partner, on an exclusive territorial basis, allowing our partners to benefit from a strong presence in their markets. Contact our team to learn about the specific availability of territories that interest you.
LICENSING PROCESS
How do I start the licensing application process?
To initiate the process, we invite you to contact us via our dedicated form or by email at licensing@montecarlolifestyle.mc. Specify the brands that interest you, the product categories envisaged, and the targeted territories. Our team will contact you to discuss your project in detail and explore collaboration possibilities.
What are the requirements for obtaining a Monte-Carlo Lifestyle license?
Our licensing process is designed to be rigorous yet transparent. We seek partners who share our commitment to excellence and who possess recognized expertise in their field. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to develop, produce, and market high-quality products that meet the brand’s standards. The process generally includes an initial evaluation, followed by detailed discussions about product categories, territories, and commercial conditions before finalizing an agreement.
What is the typical duration of a licensing contract?
Our license contracts are generally established for an initial period of 3 to 5 years, with possibilities for renewal. This duration allows our partners to fully develop their product range and establish a significant market presence. The specific terms, including duration, are adapted according to the scope of the project, the product categories concerned, and the territories covered.
What are the costs associated with obtaining a license?
Financial terms vary according to several factors, including the extent of territories, product categories, and estimated commercial potential. Generally, our licensing agreements involve a combination of initial fees and sales-based royalties. We develop balanced commercial structures that allow our partners to achieve an attractive return on investment while adequately valuing our prestigious brands.
Are territorial exclusivities granted?
Yes, depending on the product category, we generally grant territorial exclusivity to ensure our licensees have an optimal commercial environment. The extent depends on several factors, such as the specific territory and distribution capacity.
What is the typical amount of royalties?
Royalty rates vary according to the brand, product category, and territories concerned. They generally range between 5% and 12% of the wholesale price, with an annual minimum guarantee.
ADVANTAGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
What are the advantages of having your ‘Monte-Carlo’ and ‘Monaco’ brands on our products?
Associating your products with Monte-Carlo Lifestyle brands offers several distinctive advantages:
- Authentic Monaco Heritage: Unparalleled legitimacy and authenticity through direct connection with the princely family.
- Global Brand recognition: The names ‘Monte-Carlo’ and ‘Monaco’ immediately evoke luxury, exclusivity, and refinement in consumers’ minds.
- Varied Product Categories: Access to a rich and diverse visual universe through our different brands and diverse product categories.
- Exclusive Partnerships: Becoming a Monte-Carlo Lifestyle licensee allows anyone to enhance the perception of their product.
What type of support is offered to licensees?
Monte-Carlo Lifestyle licensees benefit from comprehensive support including:
- Detailed and regularly updated style guides
- Library of creative assets (logos, patterns, illustrations, photographs)
- Support in applying brand elements
- Strategic advice for product positioning
- Visibility opportunities within the Monte-Carlo Lifestyle ecosystem on a case by case basis
- Press relations and communications support according to the terms of the agreement
Are there success stories or case studies of current licensees?
Among our successful partnerships, we can mention:
- SMGS (Société Monégasque de Gestion et Spiritueux) which develops the Comte de Monte-Carlo champagne range, Baron de Monte-Carlo wines, and Monte-Carlo Gourmet cocktail desserts.
- Another example is Heritage Gear, an American manufacturer that launched an exclusive collection of weekend and tote bags in wool and leather under the Monte-Carlo Lifestyle and Monte-Carlo Club brands.
- And last but not least, or collaboration with LATAM Premiums has allowed us to introduce an exclusive line of premium cigars under the Monte-Carlo Club brand, carefully crafted with the finest tobaccos from Latin America.
These collaborations illustrate how our brands can bring a dimension of authenticity and prestige to high-quality products.
PRACTICAL ASPECTS
Which brand would best suit my product range?
Each brand has been designed to target specific market segments and particular product categories. Our team can guide you towards the brand most suited to your offer, your positioning, and your target clientele. We take into account factors such as the nature of your products, your current market positioning, and your business objectives to recommend the brand offering the best strategic alignment.
Are there specific quality requirements?
Yes, each licensed product must meet the high standards associated with our brands. An approval process is in place to ensure product compliance before commercialization.
To what extent is Monte-Carlo Lifestyle involved in the creative process?
We provide our licensees with comprehensive style guides containing a variety of illustrations, patterns, and photos that are continuously developed. Our team works closely with each partner to ensure consistent and harmonious application of brand elements while respecting the creative identity of each brand. We offer a balance between clear guidelines and creative freedom that allows our licensees’ products to stand out in the market.
Didn’t find the answer to your question?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our team is at your disposal to provide you with all necessary information regarding our licensing opportunities.