Retail News CRM

Tag: breaks

  • Tagi Breaks International Barriers with First Retail Store in Bangkok’s CentralWorld

    Tagi Breaks International Barriers with First Retail Store in Bangkok’s CentralWorld

    Chinese lifestyle brand Tagi has embarked on its first international venture with the launch of a physical retail outlet at CentralWorld in Bangkok. Positioned on the second tier of the mall’s Eden Zone, this store presents a broad selection of the Shanghai-centric brand’s accessory collection to the Thai consumer market. This includes their signature bulky phone cases and puffer laptop bags, along with an assortment of other lifestyle products.

    Tagi, an acronym for ‘Timely access of gripping imagination’, was established in 2019 in Shanghai. The brand builds everyday accessories that incorporate an element of fun into their design. Tagi’s product lines are recognized for their vivid color contrasts, checkered motifs, and natural shapes, transforming functional items into statement fashion pieces.

    This brand has steadily grown in popularity, especially among Generation Z and young millennial consumers in China. This is largely credited to Tagi’s distinct visual branding and its effective use of social media platforms.

    The opening of the store in Bangkok denotes the beginning of Tagi’s global growth strategy. This strategic move also offers Thai customers direct access to the brand’s collections, thereby eliminating the need for cross-border pre-orders or shipping procedures.

    In addition to this, Tagi opened a temporary pop-up store at Changi Airport earlier this year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Tagi known for?

    Tagi is known for its playful and colorful designs of everyday accessories, including phone cases and laptop bags. They incorporate bold color blocking, checkered patterns, and organic silhouettes into their designs, transforming functional items into fashion pieces.

    Who is Tagi’s primary consumer base?

    Tagi mainly targets Generation Z and young millennial consumers. Its distinctive visual identity and effective use of social media have helped it gain popularity among these demographics.

    What is the significance of Tagi’s store opening in Bangkok?

    The Bangkok store marks the first step in Tagi’s international expansion, giving Thai shoppers direct access to its collections. This eliminates the need for cross-border pre-orders or shipping, making it easier for customers to get their hands on Tagi products.

  • Lululemon Breaks Ground in India: First Store to Launch in New Delhis DLF Promenade

    Lululemon Breaks Ground in India: First Store to Launch in New Delhis DLF Promenade

    Canadian sportswear label, Lululemon, has announced plans to open its first shop in India during the forthcoming fall season. The inaugural store is slated to be located in DLF Promenade. This move falls under the company’s franchise agreement with Tata CLiQ, which will also facilitate the introduction of Lululemon products to consumers all across India via its Tata CLiQ Luxury and Tata CLiQ Fashion platforms, coinciding with the store’s launch.

    First Store Stock and Community Building

    Lululemon’s premier store in New Delhi will carry the company’s technical athletic clothing and accessories for both men and women. The product range will encompass various categories such as yoga, pilates, running, training, tennis, golf, and everyday movement. In addition to retailing products, the store is intended to function as a community hub for events, fostering connections between customers, brand ambassadors, and local fitness communities.

    Sarah Clark, Lululemon’s Senior VP, EMEA, expressed pride in the company’s venture into India. She conveyed that the company’s teams have been collaborating with Tata CLiQ to engage with the New Delhi community. The vibrant and active consumer base in the city is reportedly eager for high-quality performance products that merge technical innovation with superior style.

    Lululemon’s International Expansion

    The brand’s launch in India forms an integral part of its wider global expansion strategy. Lululemon currently operates in over 30 global markets. Earlier this year, it extended its reach to Poland, Greece, Hungary, and Romania, utilizing its franchise model.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Lululemon’s main product range?
    Lululemon primarily sells technical athletic apparel and accessories for men and women.

    Where will Lululemon’s first store in India be located?
    Lululemon’s inaugural store in India is planned to open in DLF Promenade, New Delhi.

    How is Lululemon expanding its brand internationally?
    Lululemon is growing its global presence primarily through a franchise model, which has recently led to its expansion into countries like India, Poland, Greece, Hungary, and Romania.

  • Babor Breaks Ground in China: Opens First Flagship Store in Shanghai, Revolutionizing Skincare Retail

    Babor Breaks Ground in China: Opens First Flagship Store in Shanghai, Revolutionizing Skincare Retail

    Germany’s renowned skincare brand, Babor, recently launched its first flagship store in mainland China, specifically in Shanghai, as part of its bid to augment its foothold in one of the world’s major beauty markets.

    An Experiential Retail Concept

    Situated in Shanghai’s Xintiandi Dongtaili district, the flagship store is fashioned as a “specialist skincare atelier.” This unique concept effortlessly fuses Babor’s German roots and professional know-how with an innovative, experience-driven retail framework.

    The store is partitioned into two main sections. The Retail Gallery proudly features Babor’s signature Ampoule Bar, as well as its primary skincare assortments. Conversely, a separate Treatment Atelier is available for customers seeking facial treatments and bespoke skincare services.

    The brand explains that this novel approach aims to foster “deeper connections with consumers” by harmonizing product exploration with tailored skincare treatments and services.

    Milestone in China Expansion Strategy

    Established in 1956, Babor has earned a reputation for its expert skincare products and treatments. The inauguration of this new store signifies a notable achievement in the brand’s China expansion strategy, mirroring the growing demand for high-end skincare experiences among local shoppers.

    Eternal Group, Babor’s regional partner, voiced their confidence in the sustainable future of China’s professional skincare sector, emphasizing the increasing relevance of experiential retail in forging robust consumer relationships.

    This event follows a larger retail expansion by Eternal. The beauty distributor, listed in Hong Kong, announced the opening of four new stores in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen recently. This is part of their plan to reinforce their directly managed retail network across China’s premier cities.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept behind Babor’s flagship store in Shanghai?
    The concept is designed as a “specialist skincare atelier”. It combines Babor’s German heritage and expertise with an experiential retail format to create deeper connections with consumers.

    What does the new store mean for Babor’s expansion strategy?
    The opening of the new store marks a significant milestone in Babor’s expansion strategy in China. It demonstrates the growing demand for premium skincare experiences among local consumers.

    How does Babor’s partner, Eternal Group, view the future of China’s professional skincare sector?
    Eternal Group expresses confidence in the long-term prospects of China’s professional skincare sector. They believe in the increasing importance of experiential retail in building stronger consumer relationships.

  • Palace Streetwear Breaks Into Mainland China with a Stylish Shanghai Store Debut

    Palace Streetwear Breaks Into Mainland China with a Stylish Shanghai Store Debut

    British streetwear brand, Palace, is set to inaugurate its first independent retail store in Mainland China, within the historic district of Zhangyuan in Shanghai.

    The store, which opens its doors to the public this Friday, draws inspiration from the traditional elements of Yuyuan Garden. It incorporates features reminiscent of the garden’s ponds, pavilions, and meandering paths. In an effort to maintain the authenticity and historic charm of the locale, the original facade of the garden has been preserved. The store’s entrance is marked by Palace’s iconic, mirrored tri-ferg logo suspended above it. The logo, a creation of Fergus Purcell, takes its cues from the Penrose Triangle, a work of Swedish artist Oscar Reutersvärd. The logo’s placement creates an illusion of angling downward from the building’s roofline.

    A Timely Debut

    Gareth Skewis, the founder of Palace, expressed that his frequent visits to China over the past two decades gave him the conviction that the time was right for the brand to make its debut in Mainland China. Skewis pointed out that the present cultural milieu, particularly the state of skateboarding and the contemporary youth culture in China, factored into his decision.

    The interior of the store is a showcase of architectural elegance with limestone and stone tile finishes. It also flaunts LED columns and accents of gold and red, a nod to traditional Chinese rituals. The store’s design incorporates a pavilion-like structure at its heart, thus extending the garden concept throughout the space.

    A Special Collection Launch

    To celebrate the store’s grand opening, Palace will introduce a Shanghai-exclusive capsule collection. The collection includes an array of items such as biker jackets, sports jerseys, hoodies, T-shirts, and accessories. The products are branded with a playful ‘Shang-Hi’ logo and a waving hand motif.

    Questions & Answers

    Where is Palace’s first independent store in Mainland China located?
    The store is located in the historic district of Zhangyuan in Shanghai.

    What is the design concept of the store?
    The store’s design draws inspiration from the traditional elements of Yuyuan Garden, with features reminiscent of the garden’s ponds, pavilions, and meandering paths integrated into the store’s layout.

    What special launch is coinciding with the store’s opening?
    To mark the store’s opening, Palace will introduce a Shanghai-exclusive capsule collection, featuring items like biker jackets, sports jerseys, hoodies, T-shirts, and accessories branded with a ‘Shang-Hi’ logo and a waving hand motif.

  • Sederhana Breaks Boundaries: Popular Indonesian Chain to Launch First Outlet in Singapore

    Sederhana Breaks Boundaries: Popular Indonesian Chain to Launch First Outlet in Singapore

    Sederhana, a well-known Indonesian food chain, is preparing to open its first Singaporean branch, taking the place of a recently closed restaurant that had been serving customers for almost eight decades. Sederhana announced its arrival in Singapore via an Instagram post on May 17th, holding back from revealing the exact date of the grand opening.

    Sederhana is popular for its nasi padang, a traditional Indonesian dish made up of steamed rice alongside a variety of pre-prepared dishes, including meats, vegetables, and fish. The chain is reported to be aiming for a May 29 opening date for the outlet located at 738 North Bridge Road, hoping to officially launch by mid-June.

    The Legacy of Sederhana

    Sederhana, which started its journey in 1972, currently operates more than 200 outlets across Indonesia, serving the unique Minangkabau cuisine. The Minangkabau are the largest ethnic group on the island of Sumatra, located in the western part of Indonesia. In addition to its Indonesian establishments, the chain also has three branches in Malaysia and plans are underway for a new branch in Melbourne, Australia.

    The location in Singapore that Sederhana has chosen for its new home was previously occupied by Warong Nasi Pariaman, one of Singapore’s oldest Indonesian eateries. Warong Nasi Pariaman shut its doors at the end of January after providing 78 years of service.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the specialty of Sederhana?
    Sederhana specializes in nasi padang, a traditional Indonesian dish that consists of steamed rice served with a variety of pre-prepared dishes such as meats, vegetables, and fish.

    Can you tell us about the history of Sederhana?
    Sederhana was founded in 1972 and has since grown to operate more than 200 outlets across Indonesia, serving Minangkabau cuisine. It also has three branches in Malaysia and is planning to open a new one in Melbourne, Australia.

    What was the previous establishment at the Singapore location?
    The location for Sederhana’s new outlet in Singapore was previously home to Warong Nasi Pariaman, one of the oldest Indonesian food eateries in Singapore, which recently shut down after 78 years of operation.

  • HSBC Breaks New Ground with Hong Kong’s First Bank-Issued Stablecoin

    HSBC Breaks New Ground with Hong Kong’s First Bank-Issued Stablecoin

    The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of HSBC, has been granted a license to issue stablecoins by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), marking a significant foray into the regulated digital asset space. The bank intends to introduce a Hong Kong dollar-denominated stablecoin by the latter half of 2026, becoming one of the first major global lenders to issue a regulated digital currency for retail use within the city.

    Fully Backed, Regulated Digital Currency

    HSBC has revealed that each unit of the upcoming stablecoin will be fully backed by high-quality liquid assets stored in segregated accounts. This structure is designed to preserve price stability and guarantee redemption at par value. Notably, the bank has emphasized its commitment to rigorous financial crime compliance standards, in line with regulators’ increased focus on security and transparency in digital assets. This development comes amidst Hong Kong’s efforts to fast-track its position as a premier hub for digital finance. This is apparent in the HKMA’s regulatory framework, geared towards legitimizing stablecoins while simultaneously mitigating systemic risks.

    Integration Into Everyday Banking

    HSBC’s stablecoin will be directly incorporated into two of their most popular platforms: PayMe, the bank’s widely-used peer-to-peer payment application, and the HSBC Hong Kong mobile banking application. This move indicates a strategic push towards integrating digital assets into mainstream financial activities, opposed to treating them as niche investment products. PayMe currently boasts over 3.3 million users, while active users on the HSBC HK App have risen by 20% year-on-year, following a recent redesign.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the stablecoin that HSBC plans to issue?
    The objective of the stablecoin is to integrate digital assets into mainstream financial activities. This will be achieved by incorporating the stablecoin into HSBC’s most popular platforms, PayMe and the HSBC Hong Kong mobile banking application.

    How will the HSBC stablecoin maintain its value?
    Each unit of the stablecoin will be fully backed by high-quality liquid assets held in segregated accounts. This structure is designed to maintain price stability and ensure redemption at par value.

    How is HSBC’s move to issue a stablecoin significant?
    HSBC’s move to issue a stablecoin marks a significant step into the regulated digital asset space. It positions the bank as one of the first major global lenders to issue a regulated digital currency for retail use, signifying a strategic shift in the financial industry towards digital finance.

  • Protein-Packed Crunch: Doritos Breaks into US Protein Snack Market with New High-Protein Chips

    Protein-Packed Crunch: Doritos Breaks into US Protein Snack Market with New High-Protein Chips

    Doritos, a widely recognized brand, has recently ventured into the protein snack sector in the U.S., launching a high-protein tortilla-style chip. The company’s foray into the functional snack market is part of a broader initiative, with other subsidiaries of parent company PepsiCo, such as SmartFood, SunChips, Pepsi, Poppi, and Quaker, introducing products rich in protein, fiber, and prebiotic ingredients.

    The Protein-Rich Snack

    Each one-ounce serving of Doritos Protein offers 10 grams of protein, with a single-serve pack providing a substantial 17 grams of protein. The protein source in the chips is casein, a dairy-based protein. Consumers can find these chips in popular flavors such as Nacho Cheese and Sweet & Tangy BBQ.

    Jess Spaulding, the VP of Marketing at PepsiCo Foods US, spoke about the company’s intent behind the product. She explained that while incorporating the functional benefit of added protein, they were committed to maintaining the distinctive taste and texture that Doritos is known for.

    Availability and Future Plans

    Doritos Protein is currently sold in two sizes, 7oz and 12.75oz. As the year progresses, the company plans to introduce the product in more formats and sizes.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the protein source used in Doritos Protein?
    The source of protein used in Doritos Protein is casein, a protein derived from dairy.

    What flavors are Doritos Protein available in?
    Doritos Protein is available in two flavors: Nacho Cheese and Sweet & Tangy BBQ.

    How much protein does a single serving of Doritos Protein provide?
    Each one-ounce serving of Doritos Protein contains 10 grams of protein, with a single-serve pack offering 17 grams.

  • Mr Cheesecake Breaks Ground in Hong Kong: Unveils Petite Series and Seasonal Flavors in First International Store

    Mr Cheesecake Breaks Ground in Hong Kong: Unveils Petite Series and Seasonal Flavors in First International Store

    Mr Cheesecake, a renowned Japanese dessert brand, has established its first ever permanent outlet beyond the domestic Japanese market. The new store is situated in Hysan Place, Causeway Bay, marking the brand’s international debut.

    Expansion in Hong Kong

    Prior to the launch of this permanent store, Mr Cheesecake had a strong presence in Hong Kong via a succession of pop-up stores. These temporary installations were spread across multiple locations, such as K11 Musea, Pacific Place, and IFC Mall.

    Product Innovations

    Coinciding with the Hong Kong store launch, Mr Cheesecake is broadening its product portfolio with a novel addition – the Mr Cheesecake Petit Series. This innovative product is a cup-shaped cheesecake designed to cater to daily dessert needs.

    In addition to the new product, the store is reintroducing the popular Praline Pistachio flavour for the festive season. However, this particular item will only be available for a limited period leading up to Christmas.

    Mirroring Japanese Retail Model

    Mr Cheesecake’s operator in Hong Kong, Yaichi, has stated that the Hysan Place store will replicate the Japanese retail model. This means customers can anticipate a dynamic offering of signature items, along with new releases that correspond with product improvements in the Japanese market.

    Notably, Yaichi is not new to introducing Japanese brands to the Hong Kong market. Earlier in July, it facilitated the entry of the Japanese household goods retailer 3Coins into Hong Kong.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Mr Cheesecake’s new store in Hysan Place?
    The new store at Hysan Place, Causeway Bay, is the first permanent international location for the Japanese dessert brand, Mr Cheesecake.

    What new products are being launched at the Hong Kong store?
    The store is launching the Mr Cheesecake Petit Series, a cup-shaped cheesecake for daily consumption. Additionally, the seasonal Praline Pistachio flavour is being reintroduced for a limited period.

    What strategy will the new Mr Cheesecake store follow in Hong Kong?
    The Mr Cheesecake store in Hong Kong, operated by Yaichi, will follow the Japan retail model. This includes keeping a rotating lineup of signature items and new releases in line with product developments in Japan.

  • Cafuné Breaks into Hong Kong Market with Stylish Pop-Up Store at Harbour City: Debuting Fall/Winter 2025 Collection

    Cafuné Breaks into Hong Kong Market with Stylish Pop-Up Store at Harbour City: Debuting Fall/Winter 2025 Collection

    Accessories retailer Cafuné recently unveiled a pop-up store inside Harbour City situated in Tsim Sha Tsui, marking a significant milestone as the brand’s first solo venture in Hong Kong. The store is situated on the third level of the Ocean Centre.

    Store Aesthetics

    Showcasing Cafuné’s subtle and minimalist design aesthetic, the pop-up store is a delightful blend of clean lines, neutral hues, and delicate botanical elements. The temporary store is planned to operate from November 14 to December 14, offering consumers an exclusive experience of the brand’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection.

    Featured Collection

    Key items on display include the Small Lune Crossbody, a compact version of the brand’s iconic Lune bag; the Stance Passport Holder, ingeniously designed with compartments for cards and documents; and the Soft Fold Bag, an exquisite piece crafted from soft Nappa leather and equipped with an adjustable strap.

    In addition to these, Cafuné is also introducing the Asra Boston Bag in the Cedar variant, specifically designed for multipurpose usage. This bag is crafted from Italian pebble-grain calf leather, adding an extra touch of elegance and sophistication.

    About Cafuné

    Cafuné came into existence in 2015, courtesy of co-founders Queenie Fan and Day Lau. The brand’s primary focus is on creating modern accessories that exhibit a minimalist design approach, which is clearly reflected in its products.

    Questions & Answers

    When and where has Cafuné opened its pop-up store?
    Cafuné opened its pop-up store at Harbour City in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, on November 14 and it will run until December 14.

    What is unique about the Cafuné pop-up store’s design?
    Cafuné’s pop-up store design showcases the brand’s minimalist aesthetic, featuring clean lines, neutral tones, and subtle botanical elements.

    What kind of products does Cafuné offer?
    Cafuné focuses on modern accessories with a minimalist design approach. Key items include the Small Lune Crossbody, the Stance Passport Holder, the Soft Fold Bag and the Asra Boston Bag in Cedar.

  • Mercedes-benz Unveils Vision Iconic Concept: A Blend Of Classic Elegance And Cutting-edge Technology

    Mercedes-benz Unveils Vision Iconic Concept: A Blend Of Classic Elegance And Cutting-edge Technology

    Unveiling the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept: A Fusion of Retro Design and Modern Technology

    Mercedes-Benz has recently revealed its Vision Iconic Concept, a luxurious spectacle of automotive engineering, at its design house located in Shanghai, China. The brand asserts that the new concept vehicle draws heavily from the golden age of car design, specifically the 1930s. The Vision Iconic Concept is said to encapsulate the quintessence of what makes a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

    Inspiration and Innovation

    The Concept maintains design elements reminiscent of classic cars, yet also incorporates a range of advanced technological features. The vehicle’s visually striking design includes an upright radiator grille similar to the one found on the 1956 300Sc model. This grille, however, is accentuated with radiant, illuminated elements. The car’s sloping roofline and elongated bonnet might bring to mind the Mercedes 300 SL. The iconic Mercedes logo adorns the front of the vehicle, while the illuminated star motif on the headlights adds a contemporary, luxurious touch.

    Blending Classic and Modern Interior Design

    The interior decor upholds the design of Mercedes’ vintage cars, but with a fresh twist. New elements have been introduced to enhance modern aesthetics and practicality. The Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept boasts a unique, floating glass dashboard centerpiece aptly named the ‘Zeppelin’. This feature combines analogue components with digital displays, creating a seamless blend of past and future. A continuous bench seat and an elegantly designed rear section recall memories of the legendary 300 SL. The car’s 4-spoke steering wheel, complete with a Mercedes logo encased in a glass sphere, adds to the luxurious feel of the vehicle.

    Advanced Features

    Beyond its visual appeal, the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept is packed with an array of advanced features. It includes steer-by-wire technology, providing quicker maneuvering and precise control. Other notable features in the prototype include Level 2 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Mercedes-Benz is also contemplating the development of Level 4 autonomous driving for the vehicle.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the design inspiration behind the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept?
    The design of the Vision Iconic Concept is primarily inspired by the golden era of automotive design in the 1930s. It incorporates elements from classic Mercedes-Benz models like the 1956 300Sc and the Mercedes 300 SL.

    What unique interior features does the Vision Iconic Concept have?
    The car’s interior features a unique floating glass dashboard centerpiece called the ‘Zeppelin’. The design also includes a continuous bench seat and an elegantly designed rear reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL.

    What advanced features does the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic Concept offer?
    The vehicle is equipped with advanced features such as steer-by-wire technology and Level 2 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Mercedes-Benz is also considering the development of Level 4 autonomous driving for the vehicle.

  • Audi recalls imported cars with brake faults

    Audi recalls imported cars with brake faults

    Audi Vietnam has announced a recall program to inspect and replace faulty main brake cylinders on 21 Audi Q5 crossovers.

    Distributors of the German car in Vietnam will recall the Audi Q5 Sport 2.0 TFSI Quattro and Q5 Design 2.0 TFSI Quattro models, made between July 2018 and March 2019 and imported as completely built units (CBU) into Vietnam.

    Due to an error in making the main hydraulic brake cylinder, brake oil could leak after prolonged use, damaging the brake system and increasing accident risks, said Vietnam Register, the agency under the Ministry of Transport that is in charge of registering vehicles, in a statement.

    However, Audi said the emergency braking function of the vehicles’ electronic parking brakes is not affected, and that so far, Audi has not recorded any accident related to the above problem.

    The recall and inspection program will take place until June 10, 2020.

    Audi opened its first dealership in Ho Chi Minh City in 2008, and now possesses three dealerships, the other two in Hanoi and Da Nang.