Gross misconduct, discriminatory behavior, and violation of company policy regarding inclusive customer service. This is impossible," Victoria whispers. "You can't just Security will escort you from the premises." Carmen Rodriguez adds, "You have 20 minutes to collect personal belongings. company property remains here. Sarah Williams steps forward, her voice barely audible.
Ms. Mitchell, I'm so sorry. I should have said something Saturday. I researched the company Sunday night, but I thought Sarah. Zara interrupts gently. We'll discuss cultural improvements during individual reviews.
Right now, I need to address the immediate situation. Zara says four words that will destroy Victoria's reality. I own this company. The words land in the boutique like thunder. I am Zara Mitchell, founder and CEO of Lux and Co.
Victoria Sterling's face cycles through shock, disbelief, and growing horror as the full magnitude of her catastrophic mistake becomes clear. The customer she accused of theft, the person she told didn't belong, owns not just this boutique, but a luxury retail empire spanning 12 states. Lux and Co. Zara continues, her voice steady and professional. Operates 47 luxury boutiques across the country.
Annual revenue, $280 million. This Beverly Hills location is our flagship store. Opened four years ago with a $12 million investment. Sarah Williams' hand flies to her mouth. She recognizes the name from fashion industry publications.
Lux and Co. has been featured in Vogue Business and Fashion Week Daily as the largest blackowned luxury retail chain in America. Our mission, Zara continues, has always been simple. Prove that luxury retail can be both exclusive and inclusive. True luxury isn't about excluding people based on assumptions. It's about including everyone in something beautiful.
Ashley Park, who'd congratulated Victoria on Saturday's professional handling, now looks physically ill. Morgan Davis stares at Zara with growing recognition. She's seen her photograph in L and Harper's bizarre profiles. Victoria finds her voice, desperation making her bold. This is some kind of elaborate con.
I don't believe you're actually Maya Chen opens her briefcase and produces incorporation documents, business licenses, and property deeds. Ms. Sterling, these are public records. Lux and Co. purchased this property and established this boutique in 2020. Ms. Mitchell has owned this store since before you were hired. The irony is devastating.
Victoria had claimed to represent company standards, protecting the boutique's reputation. The owner was standing right in front of her and Victoria had treated her like a criminal. My background, Zara says, addressing the gathered staff, might surprise some of you. I started with a vintage clothing booth at the LA flea market 17 years ago. $200 startup investment. Worked three jobs to afford business school at USC.