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Born
in 1896 in Ardèche, into one of the oldest families of the
French aristocracy, Robert-Jean de VOGUE studied science before
turning towards a military career. A man of action, he voluntarily
enlisted himself at the age of 20 and was awarded the "Croix
de guerre 1914-18 " (War cross medal) before continuing his
career in artillery.
Then,
he left the army in order to devote his dynamism to the development
of the House of Moët and Chandon. In 1930, he was asked to
take over the management of this House by his brothers-in-law from
Eudeville. He developed an exceptional marketing policy and in 1936,
created the cuvée Dom Pérignon, whose worldwide fame
remains unequalled.
Concerned
with a balanced sharing of both the efforts and the results amongst
all of the sectors of the profession, he established contractual
relationships with Vine-growers, who sold their grapes to the Champagne
Houses. He achieved the creation of the CIVC
in 1941, on fundamental bases, which still endure today.
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As
an innovator of social discussion at the heart of the company and
within the Champagne professions, Robert-Jean de VOGUE agreed (as
early as 1930) on a "collective
contract ", with the employee representatives. This was
a precursor of what would later become a collective agreement (by
type of business) and the basis of employee social status in France.
His leading role was interrupted in
1943 when he was arrested by the Gestapo and deported for forced
work in a labour camp despite the courageous support of the House's
employees. He was liberated in 1945 by the British and regained
the presidency of Moët and Chandon. He enabled the skilful
diversification of the House with the purchase of Dior perfumes
and establishments in The United States (Napa Valley - California)
and Argentina.
In
the minds of all Vine-growers and Champagne House employees, Robert-Jean
de VOGUE continues to be one of their most important historic leaders.
He proved that all success depends on discussion between all of
the sectors to reach a consensus, which combines their efforts towards
a common aim. It is with this example that modern Champagne strives
to prolong its excellent work.
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