Command Economy Mentality

“the three fundamental rules remain as firm as ever: absolute power, independence, and secrecy. Make no mistake, during these fifteen years of peak, the watchword remains the will to power.”

“Starting in 1954, Boussac pushed concentration of decision-making to the maximum by removing the financial autonomy from all subsidiaries. Their liquid assets are “deposited” to the C.I.C. Alone at the top, Marcel Boussac sets and knows the costs and sale prices: “The balance sheets,” he said, “are for the bankers, the operating accounts are for the accountants, the cash flow is for the business leader!” And to call his chief accountant: “Make me a kitchen account: what’s in my cash drawer?””