Retail News CRM

Tag: Brand

  • BlackPink’s Jennie Rocks Ray-Ban: New Global Brand Ambassador Brings K-pop Style to Eyewear

    BlackPink’s Jennie Rocks Ray-Ban: New Global Brand Ambassador Brings K-pop Style to Eyewear

    Global eyewear leader, Ray-Ban, has announced Jennie Kim, from the K-pop girl group, Blackpink, as its newest worldwide brand ambassador. This engagement aligns with the brand’s strategy of exploring partnerships in the music and fashion spheres.

    The Campaign

    The campaign showcases minimalist imagery punctuated with deep red accents, mirroring Jennie Kim’s stage identity as Jennie Ruby Jane. The visuals are designed to resonate with her vibrant persona and dynamic stage presence.

    Curated Collection

    In conjunction with this announcement, Ray-Ban has launched a six-piece capsule collection, curated by Jennie Kim. This range encapsulates her personal style, serving as an extension of her aesthetic appeal.

    The collection features a mix of existing silhouettes, including the Daddy-O and Alix models. Additionally, it includes frames from Ray-Ban’s Asian Design Collection which boasts low-bridge fits and retro-inspired details, combining modern aesthetics with a nostalgic touch.

    Jennie Kim on the Partnership

    Expressing her delight at the partnership, Jennie Kim shared, “I’m really happy to be partnering with Ray-Ban – it felt natural from the beginning.” She further added, “To me, confidence isn’t loud; it comes from feeling comfortable with yourself and expressing who you are in a quiet way. Ray-Ban has that same energy: simple, expressive, and easy to live in.”

    Questions & Answers

    Who is the new global brand ambassador for Ray-Ban?
    Jennie Kim, from the K-pop girl group Blackpink, is the new global brand ambassador for Ray-Ban.

    What is special about the new Ray-Ban campaign?
    The campaign features minimalistic visuals with deep red accents that reflect Jennie Kim’s stage persona, Jennie Ruby Jane. Along with this, a six-piece capsule collection curated by Jennie herself has been launched.

    What does the curated collection by Jennie Kim include?
    The collection includes existing models like the Daddy-O and Alix, as well as frames from Ray-Ban’s Asian Design Collection that feature low-bridge fits and vintage-inspired details.

  • New York Luxury Brand Tiffany & Co. Amplifies Presence in Thailand with Opulent IconSiam Store

    New York Luxury Brand Tiffany & Co. Amplifies Presence in Thailand with Opulent IconSiam Store

    Tiffany & Co, the renowned luxury jeweller from New York, has further extended its presence in Bangkok by inaugurating a new boutique in IconSiam. This marks the esteemed brand’s third establishment in the capital city of Thailand.

    A Distinctive Boutique

    The latest addition to Tiffany’s outlets stands out as the first in Southeast Asia to showcase a façade inspired by Favrile glass, a creation of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Mr. Tiffany, the company’s inaugural art director, developed this unique type of glass in the late nineteenth century.

    Boasting an area of 256 square meters, the boutique has been tastefully designed with plaster walls that are complemented by ceilings adorned with gold leaf. Complementing this opulent interior are customized furniture pieces replete with hand-woven upholstery.

    Exquisite Collections

    The recently opened boutique provides a dazzling showcase for a wide array of Tiffany’s collections. These include the HardWear, Knot, Lock, and T collections from Tiffany. Alongside these, the boutique displays an array of high jewellery pieces, engagement rings, and home accessories.

    All About Love

    A special space within the boutique, named ‘All About Love’, presents an enchanting display of engagement rings. The ivory and silver walls of this section, combined with a diamond-inspired display, create a mesmerizing backdrop for these symbols of commitment.

    Private Salon

    The boutique also houses a private salon, designed for those seeking a more intimate shopping experience. Decked with bespoke furniture and orchid-patterned wallpaper, the salon offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city outside.

    Continued Investment

    The opening of this boutique is indicative of Tiffany & Co’s ongoing commitment to investing in Thailand. This comes after the company’s establishment of previous boutiques in Bangkok.

    Operating over 300 stores worldwide, the company employs more than 14,000 individuals. Since its founding in 1837, Tiffany & Co has become globally recognized for its premium jewellery, watches, and luxury accessories.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about the new Tiffany & Co boutique in IconSiam, Bangkok?
    The boutique is the first in Southeast Asia to feature a façade inspired by Favrile glass, a creation of Tiffany’s first art director, Louis Comfort Tiffany.

    What collections can customers expect to find at the new Tiffany & Co boutique?
    Customers can explore a diverse range of collections, including the HardWear, Knot, Lock, and T collections from Tiffany, alongside high jewellery, engagement rings, and home accessories.

    What kind of shopping experience does the new Tiffany & Co boutique offer?
    The boutique offers a luxurious and intimate shopping experience, with a special section called ‘All About Love’ for engagement rings and a private salon for customers desiring a more private shopping environment.

  • Misto Holdings Amplifies K-fashion Revolution: 100+ Retail Outlets and New Brand Launches in Greater China on the Horizon

    Misto Holdings Amplifies K-fashion Revolution: 100+ Retail Outlets and New Brand Launches in Greater China on the Horizon

    Misto Holdings is set to broaden its reach in the Greater China region, bringing a multitude of Korean fashion brands to the rapidly growing market. The company’s portfolio consists of brands such as Matin Kim, Marithé+François Girbaud, Raive, and Rest & Recreation. It aims to manage over 100 retail units by mid-year.

    Misto Holdings reports that its brands have shown a substantial early rise. Mardi Mercredi, for example, saw its sales increase by 190 per cent in its second year, while Raive experienced a 200 per cent growth in its first year.

    In terms of digital presence, Misto Holdings oversees platforms like Tmall, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin. It uses a blend of in-house content, live-commerce studios, and influencer collaborations to interact with local consumers.

    Moreover, the company is re-evaluating its Greater China portfolio this year. It aims to diversify into men’s high-end contemporary, women’s casual, and athleisure categories. Commencing next year, the plan is to introduce approximately five new brands in the region.

    Misto Holdings emphasizes that its focus is on sustainable, long-term brand growth across both online and offline channels.

    “We are not just managing brands; we are long-term partners dedicated to building brand value across both online and offline touchpoints,” said a spokesperson for Misto Holdings. “Our focus remains on building sustainable brand equity across the Greater China region.”

    Earlier this month, Misto Holdings also announced a surge in fourth-quarter sales as the company restructured its US operations.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the expansion plan of Misto Holdings in the Greater China region?
    Misto Holdings plans to introduce multiple Korean fashion brands to the market and aims to manage over 100 retail units by the middle of this year.

    What digital platforms does Misto Holdings manage and how does it reach local consumers?
    Misto Holdings manages platforms like Tmall, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin. It reaches local consumers through a blend of in-house content, live-commerce studios, and influencer collaborations.

    What is the focus of Misto Holdings?
    The company is focused on sustainable, long-term brand growth across both online and offline channels. It aims to build brand value across both online and offline touchpoints in the Greater China region.

  • Nanamica Breaks into China’s Fashion Scene: Japanese Brand Launches First Store in Shanghai

    Nanamica Breaks into China’s Fashion Scene: Japanese Brand Launches First Store in Shanghai

    Renowned Japanese fashion label, Nanamica, has announced the inauguration of a new retail outlet in Shanghai, China. This is set to be the brand’s second international presence.

    The shop is strategically situated on Wukang Road, a bustling area within Shanghai’s Xuhui district. The location’s existing architecture is expected to harmoniously blend with the brand’s contemporary, minimalist aesthetics.

    Nanamica is recognized for its unique blend of attire that impeccably combines fashion with functionality. The brand prides itself on its versatile offerings that effortlessly “transcend genre, age, and gender”, setting it apart in the global fashion industry.

    The company expressed its vision for the newly launched Nanamica Wukang branch. It aims to provide a unique space where customers can experience the brand’s ethos in line with the local cultural backdrop and creative ambiance.

    As part of its consumer-centric approach, Nanamica has a clear message for its customers: the brand is determined to create garments that can be worn and cherished for an extended period. The company values longevity, coupling it with style and comfort.

    Nanamica has a strong retail presence, with stores operating in various locations such as Daikanyama, Kobe, Fukuoka, Kyoto, New York, and now making its mark in Shanghai.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the vision for the new Nanamica store in Shanghai?
    The vision for the new Nanamica Wukang store is to provide a space where customers can experience the brand’s ethos in a setting that harmonizes with the local cultural backdrop and creative ambiance.

    What is unique about Nanamica’s range of clothing?
    Nanamica’s clothing range is unique in its combination of fashion and functionality, offering versatile designs that transcend genre, age, and gender.

    Where else does Nanamica have store locations?
    In addition to its new Shanghai location, Nanamica operates stores in Daikanyama, Kobe, Fukuoka, Kyoto, and New York.

  • Dua Lipa Brews up New Role as Nespresso Global Brand Ambassador to Ignite Youth Appeal

    Dua Lipa Brews up New Role as Nespresso Global Brand Ambassador to Ignite Youth Appeal

    Nespresso has recently announced that pop singer Dua Lipa will become its global brand ambassador in a bid to enhance its resonance with a younger, culturally engaged audience.

    As part of this collaboration, Dua Lipa is set to headline the Vertuo World campaign, which commences on April 14. The campaign will also feature a guest appearance by long-serving Nespresso ambassador George Clooney, linking the brand’s storied history with its modern marketing strategies.

    Leonardo Aizpuru, Nespresso’s chief marketing officer, expressed excitement about the partnership with Dua Lipa. He described the singer as an adventurer always eager to try new things – an ethos that is in perfect alignment with Nespresso’s brand direction.

    According to Aizpuru, the collaboration with Dua Lipa aims to inspire a new generation to confidently explore and appreciate new tastes. He emphasized that Nespresso’s core mission is to enable boundless exploration through exceptional coffee and that Dua Lipa embodies this mindset in a contemporary and seamless manner.

    This partnership marks a significant strategic move for Nespresso, which is facing mounting competition from both retail-ready and specialty coffee brands in the premium coffee market.

    By partnering with a global pop icon known for her trendsetting influence, Nespresso aims to appeal to a demographic that places equal importance on lifestyle and cultural relevance as well as product quality.

    In 2021, Nespresso demonstrated its commitment to retail expansion by unveiling a flagship boutique in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. This store is the largest and most immersive retail location that the company has opened to date.

    Questions & Answers

    Who has Nespresso appointed as its new global brand ambassador?
    Pop superstar Dua Lipa has been appointed as the new global brand ambassador for Nespresso.

    What is the primary objective of Nespresso’s partnership with Dua Lipa?
    The key goal of this collaboration is to enhance Nespresso’s appeal among younger, culturally engaged consumers and inspire them to explore and appreciate new coffee tastes confidently.

    What strategic shift does this partnership signal for Nespresso?
    Partnering with a global pop icon like Dua Lipa marks a significant strategic shift for Nespresso as it seeks to appeal to a demographic that values cultural relevance and lifestyle as much as product quality.

  • Ferrero Group Dives into Healthy Snacks, Acquires Brazilian Protein Brand Bold Snacks

    Ferrero Group Dives into Healthy Snacks, Acquires Brazilian Protein Brand Bold Snacks

    The Ferrero Group, an Italian confectionery company, has recently expanded its business by purchasing Bold Snacks, a Brazilian enterprise that specializes in protein snacks. This acquisition is part of Ferrero’s plan to diversify and expand its range of health-conscious products.

    Bold Snacks: A Rising Star in the Health Food Sector

    Bold Snacks was established in 2018 and has quickly gained popularity with its high-protein bars. More recently, the company has broadened its product range to include whey powders. The addition of Bold Snacks to the Ferrero Group’s portfolio is expected to provide new growth opportunities in key markets.

    Daniel Martinez Carretero, CFO of Ferrero Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Bold Snacks is a unique brand that has been gaining significant traction in Brazil. This deal bolsters our position in the health food category and allows us to continue diversifying our offerings across pivotal markets.”

    Acquisition Details & Future Prospects

    As part of the agreement, Ferrero Group will take ownership of Bold Snacks’ office and manufacturing facility, located in Divinópolis, Minas Gerais. Approximately 300 employees currently working for Bold Snacks will become part of Ferrero Brazil. The completion of the transaction is expected in the coming months, subject to the usual closing conditions.

    This acquisition comes shortly after Ferrero Rocher, another brand under the Ferrero Group, debuted its new Easter product line.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Bold Snacks renowned for?
    Bold Snacks is popular for its protein bars and has recently introduced whey powders to its product range.

    How will the acquisition of Bold Snacks benefit Ferrero Group?
    The acquisition will strengthen Ferrero’s presence in the health food category and support the ongoing diversification of its product portfolio across key markets.

    What will happen to Bold Snacks’ staff following the acquisition?
    Approximately 300 Bold Snacks employees will transition to Ferrero Brazil.

  • Haidilao Heats Up: Chinese Hotpot Giant Crowned World’s Strongest Restaurant Brand Two Years Running

    Haidilao Heats Up: Chinese Hotpot Giant Crowned World’s Strongest Restaurant Brand Two Years Running

    For the second consecutive year, Chinese hotpot chain Haidilao has earned the title of “the world’s strongest restaurant brand” after experiencing a robust double-digit increase in value. The brand’s worth rose by 16% to reach $3.6 billion, propelling its strength index score to an impressive 94.1 out of 100.

    Factors Behind the Success

    Haidilao’s resounding success can be attributed to a variety of elements, including an expanded restaurant network, elevated brand influence and customer experience, as well as a more diverse product range. Despite the market’s competitive nature, the company was able to maintain its premium AAA+ brand strength rating.

    Other Emerging Brands

    Luckin Coffee, another brand originating from China, has also seen substantial growth. Its value has surged by 17% to reach $1.7 billion, which has allowed it to climb two places and achieve 19th place in the global rankings. Its score increased to 89.7 out of 100, making evident the growing allure of competing brands within China’s coffee market. Despite the escalating competition, Luckin Coffee achieved an AAA+ brand strength rating for the first time.

    Scott Chen, Managing Director of Brand Finance China, commented on the performance of these brands. He suggested that Haidilao’s sustained dominance as the world’s strongest restaurant brand, along with Luckin Coffee’s resilience amidst stiff competition, underline the dynamic character of the Chinese market. Chen also pointed to the innovation driving these brands to new heights.

    Brand Strength

    Brand strength refers to the effectiveness of a brand’s performance when compared to its competitors. Brand Finance, for instance, assesses the strength of a brand on the basis of several factors. These include marketing investment, stakeholder equity, and the effects of these on overall business performance.

    American Brands Domination

    Despite the success of Chinese brands, American brands remain dominant in terms of value. The five most valuable brands globally all hail from the United States. McDonald’s, in particular, has emerged as the world’s most valuable restaurant brand, with its value growing 7% to $40.5 billion. However, Starbucks, which used to hold the second spot, saw its brand value plummet by 36% to $38.8 billion.

    Chick-fil-A recorded the fastest growth in value within the sector, with its brand value soaring by 43% to $5.7 billion. This surge has resulted in the company now holding the eighth spot among the world’s leading restaurant brands.

    Questions & Answers

    What factors contributed to Haidilao’s success as the world’s strongest restaurant brand?
    Haidilao’s success was largely due to its expanded restaurant network, increased brand influence and customer experience, and a more diversified product range.

    How is brand strength measured?
    Brand strength is assessed based on the effectiveness of a brand’s performance in comparison to its competitors. Factors such as marketing investment, stakeholder equity, and their impact on business performance are taken into consideration.

    Which is the world’s most valuable restaurant brand?
    As of the latest rankings, McDonald’s is the world’s most valuable restaurant brand, with its value increasing 7% to $40.5 billion.

  • ThongSmith: Thailand’s Premium Boat Noodle Brand Sets Sail in Hong Kong’s Dining Scene

    ThongSmith: Thailand’s Premium Boat Noodle Brand Sets Sail in Hong Kong’s Dining Scene

    Bangkok-based noodle brand, ThongSmith, has taken a step onto the international stage by launching its first overseas venture in Wan Chai, Hong Kong. With a reputation in Thailand for its upscale approach to traditional boat noodles, ThongSmith is bringing a touch of Thai street cuisine with a lavish twist to Hong Kong.

    Reimagining Street Food

    ThongSmith has carved a niche for itself in Thailand by enhancing traditional boat noodles. This reinvention involves slow-simmering broths and the inclusion of high-grade proteins such as Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork, setting ThongSmith apart from the usual inexpensive vendors.

    Menu Adaptation

    The menu in Hong Kong follows the same pattern as in Bangkok, providing noodle dishes in addition to rice meals, grilled meats, and desserts. However, these offerings are subtly modified to cater to local tastes.

    ThongSmith’s latest venture represents its inaugural foray beyond Thailand’s boundaries. This move indicates the burgeoning interest of Southeast Asian F&B entrepreneurs in penetrating the fiercely competitive casual dining scene in Hong Kong.

    Brand Growth

    ThongSmith, which was established in 2018, now runs over 20 outlets across Bangkok.

    Questions & Answers

    What is ThongSmith known for in Thailand?
    In Thailand, ThongSmith is renowned for its upscale twist on traditional boat noodles, featuring slow-simmered broths and premium proteins like Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork.

    How does ThongSmith cater to Hong Kong’s local tastes?
    ThongSmith modifies its Bangkok menu to suit local preferences in Hong Kong, while maintaining its signature noodle dishes, rice meals, grilled meats, and desserts.

    What does ThongSmith’s expansion into Hong Kong signify?
    ThongSmith’s expansion into Hong Kong reflects the growing interest of Southeast Asian F&B operators in entering Hong Kong’s competitive casual dining market.

  • Reliance Retail Bolsters Beauty Portfolio with Acquisition of Sustainable Skincare Brand Pahadi Local

    Reliance Retail Bolsters Beauty Portfolio with Acquisition of Sustainable Skincare Brand Pahadi Local

    Reliance Retail, a major Indian retail company, has successfully acquired the skincare and wellness brand, Pahadi Local. Pahadi Local, established in 2018, is well-regarded for its clean ingredient formulations, ethical sourcing practices, and sustainable product offerings. The company is known for its Himalayan ingredients, especially Gutti Ka Tel (Apricot Kernel Oil), which has gained widespread recognition and consumer loyalty.

    The Acquisition & Future Plans

    Reliance Retail’s acquisition of Pahadi Local aligns with its strategic goal to invest in promising Indian brands across multiple sectors, including beauty, wellness, fashion, and lifestyle. The retail giant has plans to foster Pahadi Local’s next growth phase by broadening its retail presence, strengthening its digital footprint, and fast-tracking innovation.

    The founding team of Pahadi Local will remain integral to the company’s operations post-acquisition, playing a crucial role in shaping the brand’s creative direction, product development, and overall philosophy.

    Comment from Reliance Retail

    Isha Ambani, executive director of Reliance Retail Ventures, commented on the acquisition, emphasizing the company’s focus on curating brands that blend authenticity, innovation, and significant consumer relevance. Ambani praised Pahadi Local’s commitment to Himalayan wellness traditions and responsible sourcing, making it a valuable addition to their beauty brand portfolio.

    Reliance Retail is a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures, the umbrella corporation for all retail companies within the Reliance Industries group.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main product offering of Pahadi Local?
    Pahadi Local is known for its skincare and wellness products primarily made from Himalayan ingredients, with Gutti Ka Tel (Apricot Kernel Oil) as its standout product.

    What are Reliance Retail’s plans for Pahadi Local post-acquisition?
    Reliance Retail plans to expand Pahadi Local’s retail presence, strengthen its digital footprint, and accelerate innovation to foster the brand’s next phase of growth.

    How will the founding team of Pahadi Local be involved in the brand post-acquisition?
    The founding team will continue to play a critical role in shaping the brand’s creative direction, product development, and overall philosophy.

  • Estee Lauder Seals the Deal: Full Ownership of India’s Luxury Beauty Brand, Forest Essentials

    Estee Lauder Seals the Deal: Full Ownership of India’s Luxury Beauty Brand, Forest Essentials

    Estee Lauder, a renowned global manufacturer and marketer of skincare, makeup, and beauty products, has acquired the remaining shares of the luxury Indian beauty brand, Forest Essentials. This move finalizes an 18-year partnership between the two entities, pending regulatory approval.

    Increase in Commitment and Position

    Stéphane de La Faverie, the president and CEO of Estee Lauder, emphasized that this acquisition underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing the growth of Forest Essentials. It also solidifies its standing in India’s high-end beauty market. De La Faverie expressed deep admiration for the vision and perseverance needed to create a brand of Forest Essentials’ stature. The shared objective is to further solidify the brand’s leadership domestically, while prudently introducing it to a global market.

    A Brand Rooted in Tradition

    Forest Essentials, established in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, draws its inspiration from Ayurveda. This age-old Indian wellness system, with a history spanning approximately 3000 years, concentrates on creating harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. Forest Essentials has successfully transformed these traditional rituals into contemporary formulations and immersive retail experiences, placing Ayurveda in the luxury beauty segment. Today, Forest Essentials is a leading brand with about 200 stores spread across India.

    Future Direction

    Despite the acquisition, Forest Essentials will retain its headquarters in New Delhi under the leadership of Mira Kulkarni and her son, Samrath Bedi, who is the executive director. The brand will continue its operations in India, including infusing research and development with Ayurveda principles, sourcing botanicals locally, and manufacturing in-house.

    The collaboration with Estee Lauder will allow Forest Essentials to tap into the latter’s worldwide brand-building capabilities, distribution network, and operational proficiency. This will foster long-term growth while preserving the brand’s heritage.

    Kulkarni expressed that the next phase of the company’s evolution will concentrate on international expansion while preserving its Indian roots. She reiterated that Ayurveda is not simply a belief system, but a refined combination of science, ritual, and holistic wellbeing. She added that this new phase signifies both continuity and growth.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Estee Lauder’s acquisition of Forest Essentials?
    This acquisition reinforces Estee Lauder’s commitment to the growth of Forest Essentials and strengthens its position in the Indian luxury beauty market.

    What impact will the acquisition have on the operations of Forest Essentials?
    Forest Essentials will remain headquartered in New Delhi and continue its operations in India. It will also leverage Estee Lauder’s global brand-building capabilities, distribution network, and operational expertise to support long-term growth.

    What will be the focus of Forest Essentials’ next stage of development?
    Forest Essentials will focus on international expansion while maintaining its Indian roots and preserving the brand’s heritage.

  • Lanvin Group Sharpens Focus with Strategic Spin-off of Italian Luxury Brand Caruso

    Lanvin Group Sharpens Focus with Strategic Spin-off of Italian Luxury Brand Caruso

    The Lanvin Group has recently completed the strategic divestment of the Italian luxury menswear brand, Caruso. This move is a part of the group’s plan to concentrate on their primary brands, especially in light of the ongoing instability in the luxury market.

    Caruso has now been procured by MondeVita Italy, which is a constituent of the Mondevo Group based in Abu Dhabi. This marks the end of the Lanvin Group’s proprietorship of the esteemed tailoring house. The financial details related to this transaction have not been made public.

    Caruso: A Brief Overview

    Caruso, established in 1964 and based in Soragna, Italy, is famed for its superior tailoring skills and manufacturing proficiency. The brand primarily functions through wholesale channels and has chosen retail collaborations across Europe, Asia, and the U.S.

    Lanvin Group’s Alignment With Broader Strategy

    The Lanvin Group has stated that this divestment is in agreement with its expansive strategy to streamline operations and channel resources towards its fundamental luxury labels. This transaction is part of a larger restructuring endeavor aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and boosting long-term profitability.

    The Fosun Group, which has recently rebranded itself as the Lanvin Group, became the principal shareholder of Caruso in 2017 through a capital increase. This was subsequent to its acquisition of a 35 per cent stake in 2013.

    In the early part of the previous year, the group, which is based in China, reported a substantial drop in annual sales whilst continuing to put its revitalization strategy into action.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Italian luxury menswear brand that Lanvin Group has divested?
    The brand is Caruso, an esteemed tailoring house established in 1964 and known for its superior tailoring skills and manufacturing proficiency.

    Who has now acquired Caruso?
    Caruso has been procured by MondeVita Italy, a subsidiary of the Mondevo Group based in Abu Dhabi.

    What is the reason behind Lanvin Group’s divestment of Caruso?
    This divestment is part of the Lanvin Group’s strategy to streamline operations and focus resources on their core luxury labels, amidst ongoing market instability.

  • Laura Burdese Ascends to Bulgari’s Top Spot: A New Era Dawns for Iconic Luxury Brand

    Laura Burdese Ascends to Bulgari’s Top Spot: A New Era Dawns for Iconic Luxury Brand

    LVMH, the esteemed French luxury consortium, has announced the appointment of Laura Burdese as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the renowned Italian high jewellery brand, Bulgari. Her tenure is slated to begin in July of the coming year.

    Transition in Leadership

    Jean-Christophe Babin, who is currently serving as the CEO, will be relinquishing his role. However, he will maintain his connection with the company by continuing as Chairman of the Board, Chief of Bulgari’s hotel business unit, and President of the Bulgari Foundation.

    Burdese is not a new face at LVMH. She joined the luxury group in 2016, initially undertaking the role of CEO for the Italian fragrance brand, Acqua di Parma. She transitioned to Bulgari three years ago, taking charge of marketing and communications. Her exceptional performance led to her promotion to Deputy CEO last year.

    Honoring Excellence

    Stephane Bianchi, Group Managing Director and CEO of LVMH Watches and Jewelry, lauded the efforts of both Burdese and Babin, acknowledging their major contributions to expanding the brand. He affirmed that the appointment of Laura Burdese signals the start of a fresh chapter for Bulgari, a testament to her substantial accomplishments at the company.

    Bianchi also extended high praise to Babin, who has translated his senior leadership roles at Tag Heuer and Bulgari into over a quarter-century of success. Babin’s tenure has allowed both companies to carve out unique paths in their respective industries.

    Bianchi firmly believes in Babin’s continued influence in his new roles, expressing confidence that Babin’s vision and energy will persist in driving LVMH and its brands forward.

    Questions & Answers

    Who has been appointed as the new CEO of Bulgari?
    Laura Burdese has been appointed as the new CEO of Bulgari, effective from July of the coming year.

    What roles will the current CEO, Jean-Christophe Babin, continue to hold post-transition?
    Jean-Christophe Babin will continue as the Chairman of the Board, Chief of Bulgari’s hotel business unit, and President of the Bulgari Foundation.

    What was Laura Burdese’s role at Bulgari before her appointment as CEO?
    Laura Burdese served as the Deputy CEO of Bulgari, leading the brand’s marketing and communications.

  • Street Burger Invasion: Gordon Ramsay’s Iconic UK Brand Launches First Thai Outlet

    Street Burger Invasion: Gordon Ramsay’s Iconic UK Brand Launches First Thai Outlet

    Gordon Ramsay, the renowned chef, has introduced his popular street burger concept in Thailand, with the first outlet opening at Nextopia in Siam Paragon. This venture is in collaboration with Tanachira Group.

    Ramsay’s Casual Street-Dining Concept

    The newly opened eatery adheres to the brand’s casual street-dining concept that was originally cultivated in the UK. The menu is designed around Ramsay’s signature burgers, priced reasonably to attract a broad range of customers and offer them an authentic international dining experience.

    Minimalist Aesthetic and Eco-Friendly Practices

    The eatery’s interior adopts a minimalist design, adorned with neutral-toned furniture and complemented by London-inspired graffiti. The venue also hosts a Pac-Man arcade game, adding a touch of nostalgia. In line with environmental concerns, biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging materials are used across the outlet.

    Culinary Highlights

    Among the menu specials are the Original Gordon Ramsay Burger, which includes premium beef and smoked cheese, and the Gordon Fried Chicken Burger, served with kimchi-marinated fried chicken and a hash brown. Exclusive to Thailand, patrons can also enjoy the Chicken Satay Burger.

    Earlier in the year, Ramsay’s other restaurant franchise, Bread Street Kitchen, launched its flagship location at IconSiam in Thailand, marking the second outlet in the country.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept of Gordon Ramsay’s new restaurant in Thailand?
    The concept is based on casual street-dining developed in the UK, with a focus on signature burgers at affordable prices.

    What design aesthetics are present in the new restaurant?
    The restaurant features a minimalist design with neutral-toned furnishings and London-inspired graffiti. It also houses a retro Pac-Man arcade game.

    What are the signature dishes of the new outlet?
    The Original Gordon Ramsay Burger and the Gordon Fried Chicken Burger are the main highlights. Additionally, a Chicken Satay Burger has been introduced, exclusively for Thailand.

  • DFI Retail Group Unveils Three-Year Growth Plan: Franchising and Brand Expansion on the Horizon

    DFI Retail Group Unveils Three-Year Growth Plan: Franchising and Brand Expansion on the Horizon

    DFI Retail Group recently disclosed its three-year strategic growth plan, underscoring the development of a franchise model and launching more proprietary brands. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the group aims to use these strategies to enhance customer service across Asia’s varied markets and achieve exponential profit growth.

    Expanding Health and Beauty, Convenience Store Networks

    One of the critical components of the plan is growing the health and beauty as well as convenience store networks using a capital expenditure-light franchise model. The health and beauty arm of the group operates the Mannings chain in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and Guardian stores in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam. The group’s convenience store network includes 7-Eleven outlets in Hong Kong, Macau, Southern China, and Singapore.

    Introducing More Proprietary Brands

    The company also plans to introduce more of its brand products, concentrating on affordable, high-quality options that cater to Asian consumers’ escalating demand for value. Other strategies include escalating store sales density, using customer data insights for digital growth, and maintaining strict capital allocation and cost efficiency.

    DFI’s CEO, Scott Price, stated, “Customers across Asia increasingly desire quality and convenience at excellent value. With our extensive format portfolio and omnichannel capabilities, we can effectively meet these needs across all channels.”

    Future Objectives and Profit Expectations

    Aligned with these aims, the group anticipates delivering an underlying profit Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11-15 per cent, aspiring to achieve US$310-350 million by 2028. The group also expects an organic subsidiary revenue growth of 2-3 per cent annually through 2028 and plans to reach online sales penetration of 7-10 per cent by the same year.

    Price further added, “Our robust balance sheet and disciplined capital use provide us the flexibility to invest in growth while consistently increasing returns to shareholders in the coming years.”

    As of December 1, DFI and its partners operated over 7,400 outlets across 12 markets. Despite flat sales growth in the first half of the fiscal year, the group reported double-digit profit growth.

    Questions & Answers

    What is DFI Retail Group’s plan for the next three years?
    DFI Retail Group plans to develop a franchise model, introduce more of its own brands, and achieve double-digit profit growth.

    What does the franchise model expansion involve?
    The expansion involves the health and beauty and convenience store networks, which include the Mannings chain and 7-Eleven outlets, among others.

    What are the group’s financial expectations by 2028?
    The group aims to deliver an underlying profit Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11-15 per cent, hoping to achieve US$310-350 million. It also targets an organic subsidiary revenue growth of 2-3 per cent annually and online sales penetration of 7-10 per cent.