New York

COMPAGNIE Financiere Richemont built a conglomerate offering the world's wealthiest consumers the highest-quality products, often in the most luxurious of settings. Clients walking into a Cartier flagship or a Piaget boutique - both Richemont brands - could expect radiant smiles and soft furnishings, as well as impeccable service for as long as was necessary before they made their purchase.

Increasingly, though, well-heeled clients don't want that type of service. Cash-rich, time-starved customers want their shopping to be quick, quiet and easy, done in a matter of seconds from their smartphone.