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The Unlikely Rise of the Coach Brand and "Accessible Luxury" episode art

The Non-Obvious Show · Episode 62

The Unlikely Rise of the Coach Brand and "Accessible Luxury"

with Lew Frankfort

Episode 62 · December 2, 2025 · 33 min

In This Episode

In this episode, Lew Frankfort, former CEO of Coach, shares his journey of transforming Coach into a $5 billion brand. He discusses the concept of 'accessible luxury,' the importance of being an outsider in leadership, and the balance between magic and logic in business. Lew emphasizes the value of curiosity, purpose, and the greater good mindset in building a lasting brand.

Key Takeaways

  • Lew Frankfort was an unlikely choice to take over as CEO of Coach.
  • Being an outsider might be the true key to leadership success.
  • Coach opened their first store on Madison Avenue.
  • Gen Z is value-driven and has a sense of purpose.
  • Coach coined the term “accessible luxury” before going public.
  • Coach wanted people to have belief in the brand.
  • Coach built a culture of treating employees well.
  • The greater good mindset requires belief and purpose.

What We Cover

  • 00:03:00The Concept of Accessible Luxury
  • 00:09:00Leadership as an Outsider
  • 00:15:00Building the Coach Brand
  • 00:21:00Magic and Logic in Business
  • 00:27:00The Greater Good Mindset

About The Guest

Lew Frankfort Former Chairman and CEO of Coach; author of Bag Man

Lew Frankfort led Coach for decades as chairman and CEO from 1995 until 2014, and wrote Bag Man: The Story Behind the Improbable Rise of Coach. He is known for scaling Coach globally and for popularising accessible luxury.

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