Good morning. Asia editor Nick Gordon here, filling in for Diane Brady.
Kahn has led Coach since 2020, when he took over as interim CEO and brand president—an appointment that was made official a year later. He joined Tapestry in 2008 as its general counsel and secretary, following previous roles in the apparel and fashion industry.
On the escalation of tariffs. Kahn and I met a few days after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened new 100% tariffs against China. (Trump has since moderated his tone.) Coach doesn’t manufacture in China, yet Kahn noted that “business generally does better when there’s more certainty. The lack of certainty makes it really hard to plan, to invest and do things.” Kahn is optimistic that Coach’s focus on a smaller number of affordable, yet consistent products puts it in a better place to manage cost and price increases than its competitors. “I’m much happier about being in the $300 to $600 range than if I’m at $3,000 now having to deal with tariffs.”
On selling in China. Tapestry grew its Greater China revenue by 5% to hit $1.1 billion in its last fiscal year, even as other foreign brands struggle to fend off affordable domestic rivals. “A great bag is a great bag everywhere,” Kahn said. Coach’s brand positioning “aligns really well with the young Chinese consumer.” He pointed out that Coach goes for breadth and depth in its research, combining big data from its millions of customers with “ethnographic work” following consumers into their homes and shops. “This administration should value the fact that we can win with a Chinese consumer because of American design. That combination is very powerful,” Kahn said.
On connecting with Gen Z. Coach’s bags have been a hit on social media, which Kahn credits to building a “holistic story” around the brand’s products and retail experience. “If you’re just [focusing] on product, but the environment isn’t inviting for Gen Z, you’re not going to capture them,” he said. “Fashion has always looked to the youngest generation for inspiration.”
Case in point: As we end our conversation, Kahn points out two young shoppers taking a selfie in front of a product display, chili crab ice cream in hand.
