Rolex to Runways: Vietnam’s Luxury Retail Titan Builds a Family-Led Empire on Discipline

Johnathan Hanh Nguyen, Vietnam’s “King of Luxury Brands,” leads IPPG, a family-run empire representing 139 global brands and generating US$685 million annually. Built on discipline and trust, IPPG dominates luxury retail while expanding into aviation, duty-free, and infrastructure projects. With 45 new ventures planned, Nguyen’s vision is to drive shopping-led tourism and elevate Vietnam’s global standing.

Jan 31, 2026 0 77

Rolex to Runways: Vietnam’s Luxury Retail Titan Builds a Family-Led Empire on Discipline

In Vietnam, if you purchase a Rolex watch, a Burberry coat, or a Cartier bracelet, chances are the transaction runs through Johnathan Hanh Nguyen, widely known as the country’s “King of Luxury Brands.”

At 75, Nguyen oversees Imex Pan Pacific Group (IPPG), a conglomerate with over 1,200 retail outlets and annual revenues of nearly 14 trillion dong (US$685 million). Representing 139 global brands across fashion, F&B, duty-free, and aviation services, IPPG remains firmly rooted in family values. Seven of Nguyen’s eight children hold leadership roles, each managing distinct business units to avoid overlap and conflict.

Discipline governs both boardroom and family life. Business performance is reviewed annually, profits are distributed based on results, and weekends are reserved for compulsory family meals. Nguyen emphasizes integrity and trust as the foundation of IPPG’s partnerships with global brands.

IPPG’s expansion mirrors Vietnam’s economic rise. From luxury fashion houses like Burberry and Ferragamo to mid-tier brands such as Nike and Mango, the group has captured nearly 70% of Vietnam’s high-end retail market. Landmark investments include Rex Arcade in Ho Chi Minh City and Trang Tien Plaza in Hanoi, transformed into luxury shopping destinations.

Beyond retail, aviation forms IPPG’s backbone. Strategic stakes in Tan Son Nhat Airport Services (Sasco) and Noi Bai Airport Services, plus projects like the Cam Ranh International Terminal, have positioned IPPG as a key player in Vietnam’s airport infrastructure. Duty-free retail now contributes nearly half of the group’s profits.

Looking ahead, Nguyen has mapped out 45 projects spanning resorts, smart cities, and retail hubs, aligning with Vietnam’s tourism ambitions. His vision is clear: to grow shopping-led tourism and lift international arrivals to 50 million annually. For Nguyen, success rests not on titles but on discipline, trust, and strong relationships with global brands.