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Tag: celebrates

  • Watson’s Celebrates 185 Years with Exclusive Heritage Concept Store in Hong Kong, Offering Unique Merchandise and Experiential Retail

    Watson’s Celebrates 185 Years with Exclusive Heritage Concept Store in Hong Kong, Offering Unique Merchandise and Experiential Retail

    In celebration of its 185th anniversary, Watsons Hong Kong has unveiled a heritage concept store in Yau Ma Tei. This innovative store seeks to blend the brand’s long-standing pharmacy heritage with the excitement of experiential retail and exclusive anniversary merchandise.

    Situated on Nathan Road, the store pays homage to AS Watson’s pharmacy origins with interiors that take design cues from yesteryears, interactive spaces for customers to engage with, and exclusive merchandise created especially for the anniversary. This experiential retail space features three themed photo zones which are inspired by the rich culture of Hong Kong’s pharmacies: a vintage medicine cabinet, a retro vanity corner, and a bathroom-themed display.

    To commemorate its opening, Watsons has launched a series of anniversary-exclusive products. Among these are a vintage-themed ‘Watjai’ mascot plush collection and a unique ‘Love Your Organs’ blind box series. In addition, a collaboration with popular brands Bioré, Colgate, and Darlie has resulted in the introduction of retro-inspired packaging for select products.

    In conjunction with the 185th anniversary campaign, other retail brands under the AS Watson Group umbrella, such as ParknShop, Fortress, and Watsons Water, are also participating. Exclusive merchandise from these brands will make their debut at the heritage concept store. Customers can look forward to items like lightbox-style magnets that pay tribute to ParknShop’s signage, a retro film camera from Fortress, and a vintage-style bottle opener courtesy of Watsons Water.

    This heritage concept store forms an integral part of Watsons’ overarching 185th-anniversary campaign, encapsulating the brand’s commitment to honoring its history while incorporating more experiential elements into its physical store network.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the heritage concept store?
    The heritage concept store is a new retail space by Watsons Hong Kong that combines the brand’s pharmacy history with experiential retail and exclusive anniversary merchandise.

    What can customers expect at the new heritage concept store?
    Customers can engage with vintage-inspired interiors and interactive experiences at the store. They can also purchase exclusive anniversary merchandise, including a ‘Watjai’ mascot plush collection and a ‘Love Your Organs’ blind box series.

    Which other brands are participating in Watsons’ 185th-anniversary campaign?
    Other retail brands under the AS Watson Group, such as ParknShop, Fortress, and Watsons Water, are also taking part in the anniversary campaign with exclusive merchandise debuting at the heritage concept store.

  • Revitalized Toys R Us Hong Kong Celebrates 40 Years with Fresh Experiential Zones and Exclusive Brands

    Revitalized Toys R Us Hong Kong Celebrates 40 Years with Fresh Experiential Zones and Exclusive Brands

    To commemorate its 40th anniversary in Hong Kong, Toys R Us Asia has unveiled a transformed version of its flagship store in the Ocean Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui. The store originally opened in 1986 and has been revamped to feature nine new in-store themed concepts and interactive zones.

    Store-in-Store Concepts and Themed Zones

    The remodelled flagship store now showcases dedicated branded areas for popular franchises such as Pokémon, Tomica, Bandai, Lego, Nintendo, Sanrio, Sylvanian Families, Transformers, and VTech. This development includes the introduction of several concepts to the Hong Kong market for the first time. These new features include an integrated Pokémon Play Lab and a Tomica Brand Store, which boasts a collection of over 2,000 die-cast models.

    The CEO of Toys R Us Asia, Leo Tsoi, shared his insights on the upgrade. He said, “Toys R Us is in tune with the increased demand for pop culture and emotionally resonant items from children, Gen Z, and ‘Kidults’. We are committed to introducing animation IPs, collaborative merchandise, and proprietary products. Our aim is to craft more meaningful play and collectible experiences tailored for consumers in Hong Kong and across Asia.”

    Additional Features

    As well as the branded areas, the flagship store also features a Nintendo gaming trial zone, a Sanrio-themed retail space, and a play area for VTech and LeapFrog designed for parent-child interaction. The store creatively incorporates themed zones that reflect local culture and current trends.

    With more than 450 stores across 10 markets, Toys R Us Asia’s focus is on integrating retail with interactive and experiential elements. The revamped Hong Kong flagship store exemplifies this approach. It also exemplifies Toys R Us Asia’s strategic move to expand its appeal beyond children, reaching out to adult collectors and a broader segment of consumers.

    Questions & Answers

    What significant changes have been made to the flagship Toys R Us store in Hong Kong?
    The store has been upgraded to include nine new in-store themed concepts and interactive zones. It also features an integrated Pokémon Play Lab and a Tomica Brand Store, which are first-time additions to the Hong Kong market.

    What is the strategic focus of Toys R Us Asia?
    Toys R Us Asia is focused on integrating retail with interactive and experiential elements. They also aim to broaden their appeal beyond children to include adult collectors and a wider consumer market.

    Who are the target consumers for the revamped Toys R Us store?
    The revamped store targets not only children but also Gen Z and ‘Kidults’ – adults who have an affinity for items traditionally aimed at children. The store also seeks to provide experiences tailored to the specific needs of consumers in Hong Kong and across Asia.

  • GoTo Celebrates First-Ever Quarterly Profit, Signaling Turnaround After Gojek-Tokopedia Merger

    GoTo Celebrates First-Ever Quarterly Profit, Signaling Turnaround After Gojek-Tokopedia Merger

    GoTo, a prominent Indonesian ride-hailing firm, recently announced its first-ever quarterly net profit. This is a significant milestone for the company, which has seen strong revenue growth and increased cost control measures begin to pay dividends.

    The Turnaround

    GoTo was established in 2021 as a result of the merger between Gojek and Tokopedia. Despite its combined strengths, the company has faced difficulties in generating profits due to intense market competition and high operating expenses.

    However, the tides have turned for GoTo, with the company recording a net profit of 171 billion rupiah (US$9.94 million) for the quarter ending March 31. This is a stark contrast to the loss of 367 billion rupiah it incurred during the same period the previous year.

    GoTo’s diverse service offering, which includes ride-hailing, food delivery, logistics, and financial services, has contributed to its improved financial performance. The company announced a 26% year-on-year increase in net revenue for the first quarter, bringing it to 5.3 trillion rupiah.

    Outpacing Costs

    GoTo’s Chief Financial Officer, Simon Ho, explains that the company’s revenue growth has significantly overshadowed its rising costs across both fintech and on-demand services. There has also been a decrease in the cost to serve, as the company’s tech and AI strategies begin to take effect.

    Additionally, GoTo reported an attributable profit of 257.94 billion rupiah for the quarter, a considerable improvement from last year’s loss of 283.33 billion rupiah.

    Looking Forward

    Despite the current global macroeconomic uncertainty, GoTo has maintained its full-year adjusted EBITDA forecast of between 3.2 trillion rupiah and 3.4 trillion rupiah. The company, which enjoys support from Japan’s SoftBank Group and Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC, has previously been the subject of merger rumors with Singapore-based competitor Grab, though no agreement has been formalized.

    Questions & Answers

    What was GoTo’s net profit for the quarter ending March 31?

    GoTo’s net profit for the quarter ending on March 31 was 171 billion rupiah (US$9.94 million).

    What services does GoTo offer?

    GoTo offers a variety of services including ride-hailing, food delivery, logistics, and financial services.

    What is GoTo’s full-year adjusted EBITDA forecast?

    Despite the current global macroeconomic uncertainty, GoTo has maintained its full-year adjusted EBITDA forecast of between 3.2 trillion rupiah and 3.4 trillion rupiah.

  • Luckin Coffee Celebrates 30,000th Store Milestone with Launch of Innovative ‘Origin Flagship’ Format in Shenzhen

    Luckin Coffee Celebrates 30,000th Store Milestone with Launch of Innovative ‘Origin Flagship’ Format in Shenzhen

    Luckin Coffee, the global coffee enterprise, recently celebrated the grand opening of its 30,000th outlet. This notable event was marked by the introduction of a new ‘Origin Flagship’ store in Shenzhen.

    New Store Format

    This two-level outlet, significantly larger than Luckin’s traditional pickup-centric small stores, covers an expansive area of about 420 square meters. It carries a special ‘Origin Lab’ menu, presenting customers with a unique selection of single-origin coffees and pour-over options. Coffee aficionados can look forward to tasting beans originating from various regions, including Yunnan, Ethiopia, and Mandheling.

    Store Features

    The new store is equipped with state-of-the-art semi-automatic coffee machines. In addition, it features an exclusive ‘Master Space’, specifically designed to host coffee-related events and facilitate customer interaction.

    In keeping with its commitment to sustainability, Luckin Coffee developed the new store in accordance with Leed Platinum and Zero Carbon Space standards.

    Global Coffee Journey

    Li Hui, Chairman of Luckin Coffee, expressed his company’s dedication to delivering the authentic taste of premium coffee from various renowned regions, including Indonesia, Brazil and Colombia, to every customer. He emphasized that the experience of enjoying a cup of Luckin Coffee is not just about the taste; it’s the beginning of a journey through global coffee flavors. This perspective signifies a critical advancement of Luckin’s corporate vision and mission.

    Currently, the coffee giant operates over 30,000 stores in more than 300 cities in China. It has also successfully expanded its footprint to international markets like Singapore, Malaysia, and the US.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about Luckin Coffee’s 30,000th store?
    The 30,000th Luckin Coffee store, located in Shenzhen, introduces a new ‘Origin Flagship’ format. It is a two-story outlet covering 420 square meters, significantly larger than the traditional small, pickup-focused outlets. The store features an ‘Origin Lab’ menu with single-origin coffees and pour-over options.

    What is the ‘Origin Lab’ in the new Luckin Coffee store?
    The ‘Origin Lab’ is a special menu featured in the new store that offers single-origin coffees and pour-over options. Customers can taste beans from various regions, including Yunnan, Ethiopia, and Mandheling.

    Where else does Luckin Coffee operate?
    Luckin Coffee operates more than 30,000 stores in over 300 cities in China and has expanded internationally into markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the US.

  • Yirong Wee Ascends to CEO Role at PROPEL: Singlife’s One-Stop Service Center Celebrates Year of Success

    Yirong Wee Ascends to CEO Role at PROPEL: Singlife’s One-Stop Service Center Celebrates Year of Success

    Insurer Singlife’s comprehensive shared service center, PROPEL, has announced a change in leadership one year after its inception. Yirong Wee has assumed the role of chief executive officer (CEO), succeeding Steven Ong, who will spearhead a new business venture within Singlife, starting 2026.

    A Wealth of Experience

    Yirong Wee brings to the table an impressive 18-year track record in financial services, operations, and distribution strategy. Prior to her appointment as CEO, Wee held the position of chief operating officer (COO) of group distribution at Singlife. Her experience also extends to her role as COO at GROW with Singlife, an integrated investment solutions platform for financial advisor representatives.

    About PROPEL

    PROPEL is an all-inclusive shared service center designed for financial advisory firms under the Singlife group. Since its inauguration in January 2025, it has successfully recruited over 1,300 financial advisor representatives.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the function of PROPEL?
    PROPEL is a comprehensive shared service center for financial advisory firms under the Singlife group.

    Who is the new CEO of PROPEL?
    Yirong Wee has been appointed as the new CEO of PROPEL.

    What will the ex-CEO of PROPEL, Steven Ong, be doing in the future?
    Steven Ong will be leading a new business initiative within Singlife from 2026.

  • Singtel Celebrates 14% Profit Leap: A Triumph of Regional Growth and Strategic Investments

    Singtel Celebrates 14% Profit Leap: A Triumph of Regional Growth and Strategic Investments

    The Singtel Group has reported a 14% increase in underlying net profit, reaching SGD 1.35 billion in the first half of the year. This growth has been mainly driven by regional associates Airtel and AIS, as well as operating companies NCS and Optus.

    Profit Increase Despite Economic Challenges

    Neglecting the impact of foreign currency fluctuations and contributions from Intouch, which concluded after its merger with Gulf, the underlying net profit would have increased by 22%. The net profit rose to SGD 3.40 billion, largely as a result of a net exceptional gain of SGD 2.05 billion from the partial sale of a stake in Airtel in May and the Intouch-Gulf merger.

    Operating revenue declined by 1.2% to SGD 6.91 billion, which was affected by the strong Singapore dollar. However, in constant currency terms, the Group’s operating revenue, EBITDA, and operating company EBIT would have increased by 1.9%, 4.9%, and 14%, respectively.

    CEO Insights

    Yuen Kuan Moon, Singtel Group CEO, stated that the group’s H1 results reflect the positive momentum across their diversified portfolio of businesses across the region. They have continued to drive growth in connectivity, digital services, and digital infrastructure and also unlocked value from their asset recycling efforts as they executed their Singtel28 plan.

    Despite the challenging macroeconomic outlook, and uncertainty surrounding the Optus business, Yuen believes their business and geographical diversity is providing stability to the Group’s performance. He expects their growth engines to change the business’s complexion in the mid term as they continue to scale.

    Plan Execution and Active Capital Management

    Since launching the Singtel28 plan, the Group’s active capital management has generated SGD 5.6 billion in proceeds, including SGD 1.5 billion from the recent divestment of a 0.8% stake in Airtel. The Group has achieved more than half of its new SGD 9 billion mid-term asset recycling target, which will be used to fund growth opportunities and provide returns to shareholders.

    The Group’s balance sheet remains strong, with a cash balance of SGD 3.4 billion as of September 2025, helping reduce net debt to SGD 8.7 billion and improve gearing ratios.

    Regional Associates’ Contributions

    The profit contributions from regional associates post-tax increased by 12% to SGD 0.92 billion. Excluding Intouch and considering constant currency terms, these contributions would have risen by 25%.

    Airtel Group saw solid earnings growth in both India and Africa due to effective execution and higher mobile tariffs, while AIS reported stronger profits due to revenue growth and effective cost management. However, Telkomsel’s performance was impacted by weaker mobile performance, a capital gain from the sale and leaseback of indoor infrastructure in the previous period, and higher interest expenses. Globe’s earnings also declined due to weak consumer spending.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the overall financial status of Singtel Group?
    Singtel Group has reported a 14% increase in underlying net profit, reaching SGD 1.35 billion in the first half of the year.

    What were the main contributors to Singtel Group’s growth?
    The growth was mainly driven by regional associates Airtel and AIS, as well as operating companies NCS and Optus.

    What does the Group’s CEO, Yuen Kuan Moon, attribute the positive results to?
    Yuen attributes the positive results to the group’s diversified portfolio of businesses across the region and active capital management as part of the Singtel28 plan. The plan has generated SGD 5.6 billion in proceeds, contributing to the reduction of net debt and improvement of gearing ratios.

  • Nissan India Celebrates Export of 1.2 Million Vehicles: Triumph for Made-in-India Cars Globally

    Nissan India Celebrates Export of 1.2 Million Vehicles: Triumph for Made-in-India Cars Globally

    Nissan India Reaches Export Milestone

    Nissan India has marked a significant achievement with the announcement of its 1.2 millionth vehicle export. The Japanese automotive company has primarily centred its focus on the Magnite model, with occasional offerings of fully imported models such as the X-Trail. Nissan India exports vehicles to the AMIEO region, comprising Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Other markets.

    The milestone vehicle, a Magnite, is destined for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. It was officially unveiled by Saurabh Vatsa, the Managing Director of Nissan Motor India, at Kamarajar Port in Ennore, Tamil Nadu. While the Magnite has been the mainstay, Nissan India has a history of exporting various models. These include the Sunny, Kicks, and Micra, which have been shipped to regions such as Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.

    Changes in Model Exports Over Time

    Over time, however, these models were phased out due to lacklustre sales performance following the introduction of BS6 emission standards. At present, the Magnite is exported to 65 countries and is available in both left-hand (LHD) and right-hand (RHD) drive versions.

    Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, commended this achievement, attributing it to the collective efforts of their teams and the global trust in their Made-in-India cars. He stated, “The Nissan Magnite continues to be a global success story, representing our focus on design, quality, and innovation that transcends borders.”

    Updates to the Magnite Model

    In December of the previous year, Nissan introduced a minor facelift to the Magnite, including subtle cosmetic changes and additional features. However, the mechanical aspects of the vehicle remain the same. The Magnite is offered with two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated engine and a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine. The former delivers 72 bhp and 96 Nm of peak torque, while the latter offers 99 bhp and 160 Nm (or 152 Nm with automatic transmission) of torque.

    Questions & Answers

    What milestone has Nissan India recently achieved?
    Nissan India has recently announced the export of its 1.2 millionth vehicle.

    Which regions does Nissan India export its vehicles to?
    Nissan India exports its vehicles to the AMIEO region, which includes Africa, the Middle East, India, Europe, and other markets.

    What changes were made to the Nissan Magnite in its latest update?
    In its latest update, the Nissan Magnite received a mild facelift with subtle cosmetic enhancements and additional features. The mechanical aspects of the vehicle, however, remain unchanged.

  • Rolls-royce Unveils Phantom Centenary Collection: An Exquisite Tribute To A Century Of Automotive Excellence

    Rolls-royce Unveils Phantom Centenary Collection: An Exquisite Tribute To A Century Of Automotive Excellence

    Rolls-Royce has introduced the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, a 25-unit series based on the Phantom, in celebration of the model’s 100th anniversary. The automaker describes the collection as the most intricate and technologically advanced private series it has ever produced, with more than 40,000 hours dedicated to its development.

    Exterior Design

    The exterior of the Centenary Private Collection is completed in a classic Black & White style. The paint finish is further enhanced with Rolls-Royce’s Super Champagne Crystal finish, which incorporates champagne-coloured iridescent glass flakes in the clear coat to add an additional layer of depth. The Spirit Of Ecstasy hood ornament is influenced by the original design and is made from 18-carat gold with a 24-carat gold plating. The hood ornament also carries a custom ‘Phantom Centenary’ hallmark from the Hallmarking & Assay Office in London, while the base is completed in enamel. The Rolls-Royce badges and unique ‘Phantom’ wheels are finished in 24-carat gold and white enamel.

    Interior Inspiration

    The interior of the car draws from past Phantom models and honors the company’s founders. The rear seats, inspired by the ‘Phantom of Love’, a custom-made model from 1926, feature artwork embedded into the seat upholstery. This artwork highlights the Phantom’s history and includes depictions of the company’s original Conduit Street premises in London, special Phantom models, and significant Phantom owners over the past century. The seat artwork is a result of a 12-month collaboration with a fashion atelier.

    Thoughtful Details

    The front seats feature laser-etched upholstery with artwork referencing codenames of past Phantoms. The gallery includes 3D-printed brushed aluminium fins arranged vertically, each bearing sculpted letters that form quotes from various reviews over the years. This artwork is backlit, with the lighting programmed to mimic the shimmer of fireworks.

    The doors also showcase remarkable craftsmanship. The rear doors feature artwork depicting landscapes where Sir Henry Royce, the company’s co-founder, had his summer and winter homes, achieved through 3D ink layering, laser etching, and 24-carat gold inlays. The front doors present a depiction of the Goodwood-era Phantom’s Journey across Australia.

    Attention to Every Inch

    Not to be overlooked are the seatback tables, one of which features a wood-inlay representation of the 1925 Phantom 1, while the other shows the current model. This artwork is also carefully embroidered onto the leather-finished back of the table. The Starlight headliner displays floral artwork inspired by the trees at the company’s Goodwood headquarters and references to prior Phantoms.

    Even the engine bay features a bespoke white-finished engine cover with gold inlays, highlighting Rolls-Royce’s attention to detail and commitment to luxury.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Phantom Centenary Private Collection?
    The Phantom Centenary Private Collection is a 25-unit series based on the Rolls-Royce Phantom, produced to celebrate the nameplate’s 100th anniversary.

    What unique features does the collection have?
    The collection is characterized by its intricate artwork, lavish materials, and advanced technologies. Key features include the Super Champagne Crystal finish, laser-etched upholstery, 3D-printed gallery artwork, and numerous gold inlays.

    What inspired the design of the collection?
    The collection draws inspiration from past Rolls-Royce Phantom models and pays homage to the brand’s founders. The unique artwork embedded into the interior of the cars references the history of the Phantom and the landscapes connected to the company’s co-founder, Sir Henry Royce.