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Tag: Fusion

  • Adidas Unveils Experiential Lifestyle Hub in Bangkoks Songwat District: A Fusion of Fashion, Street Culture & Community

    Adidas Unveils Experiential Lifestyle Hub in Bangkoks Songwat District: A Fusion of Fashion, Street Culture & Community

    Adidas has recently inaugurated a flagship store in the Songwat district of Bangkok, further broadening its experiential retail strategy. This engaging destination seamlessly meshes fashion, street culture, and community involvement.

    A Blend of Retail, Customization, and Community Space

    The two-level establishment unifies retail, food, drink, product customization, and cultural offerings all under one roof. A carefully chosen collection of Adidas Originals merchandise is featured on the ground floor. Meanwhile, the upper level is graced by the specialty coffee brand, % Arabica, which aims to promote longer visits and social engagement.

    The store is further embellished with a Maker Lab for product personalization, a photobooth, and an exclusive Graphic Tee Collection. This collection is the result of a collaboration with local artists and can only be found at this particular Songwat store. It takes inspiration from the district’s rich heritage and presents it through a modern perspective.

    According to Adidas, the design and layout of the store are in line with their Originals’ strategy of transforming brick-and-mortar retail into creative hubs. These spaces not only accommodate commerce but also foster creativity, culture, and a sense of community.

    This opening comes on the heels of the introduction of Adidas’ flagship store at Jewel Changi Airport in Singapore last year. That location also featured experiential zones that drew inspiration from the local culture and storytelling.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the new Adidas store in Bangkok offer?
    The new Adidas store in Bangkok’s Songwat district offers a blend of retail, food and beverage, product customization, and cultural experiences. It also features an exclusive Graphic Tee Collection created in collaboration with local artists.

    What is the strategy behind the design and layout of the Adidas store?
    The design and layout of the store reflect Adidas Originals’ strategy of transforming physical retail into destinations that foster creativity, culture, and community, in addition to commerce.

    What is unique about the Graphic Tee Collection at the new Adidas store?
    The Graphic Tee Collection, which is exclusively available at the Songwat location, is a collaborative work with local artists. It draws inspiration from the neighborhood’s heritage and presents it through a contemporary lens.

  • Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    The luxury brand Hermès recently celebrated the grand reopening of its outlet located in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei. This event comes after a considerable period of renovations, reflecting the brand’s innovative and dynamic spirit that mirrors the vibrant essence of the city.

    Originating in 2007, the three-tiered store now boasts a modern look with its ceramic tile facelift. The French architectural firm, RDAI, is the mastermind behind the redesigned aesthetics of the Hermès store.

    Upon entering the establishment, visitors are instantly enveloped by a luxurious universe of silk. The space is tastefully arranged with fashion jewelry displays on the right and an enticing array of perfumes and beauty products on the left. Enhancing this opulent ambiance is the house’s signature Grecques lighting, adding a refined touch to the overall shopping experience.

    The redesign also features screen walls to define the space and accentuate Hermès’ commitment to local artisans. These walls are adorned with intricate thread compositions crafted locally and blended with Hermès silk offcuts, showcasing the brand’s marriage of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

    As customers delve deeper into the store, they will come across an intimate and exclusive section dedicated to the brand’s exquisite jewelry and timepieces.

    Art connoisseurs will appreciate the store’s unique collection of artworks sourced from the Emile Hermès collection, as well as the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’. These carefully curated pieces add an artistic touch, rendering the store not just a shopping destination, but a place of inspiration and creativity.

    In conclusion, Hermès stated: “This revitalized store welcomes both our loyal patrons and newcomers alike to explore Hermès’ timeless creations and craftsmanship within a bold, innovative setting.”

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, first opened?
    The Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, initially opened its doors in 2007.

    Who was behind the renovation and redesign of the Hermès store?
    The renovation and redesign of the Hermès store were carried out by the French architecture agency, RDAI.

    What unique features does the renovated Hermès store offer to its customers?
    The renovated Hermès store offers a luxurious shopping experience with its silk universe, fashion jewelry, perfumes and beauty products. It also showcases locally crafted thread compositions and a selection of artworks from the Emile Hermès collection and the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’.

  • Songmont’s Fusion of Old and New: Grand Reopening of Shanghai Flagship Store Reveals Exciting Redesign

    Songmont’s Fusion of Old and New: Grand Reopening of Shanghai Flagship Store Reveals Exciting Redesign

    Songmont, a premium designer brand based in China, has recently unveiled its revamped flagship store located in Shanghai. The store’s redesign showcases a unique blend of original and novel elements aimed at enhancing the layout and shopping experience for its customers.

    The Concept Behind the Revamp

    The original design concept for the store, known as ‘Windy Mountain Valley’, was a nod to the picturesque landscapes sculpted by wind and terrain. This concept is retained in the redesigned space, still encapsulating the harmony of nature and design.

    The updated store retains elements from its initial design while introducing new features that add more depth and definition to the space.

    Balancing Old and New

    Having been a part of the company’s journey for over five years, the flagship store in Shanghai holds significant importance for Songmont. The revamped store is not just about bringing in new elements but also about preserving the old, creating a unique blend of old and new.

    The updated store space now presents a harmonious blend of the familiar, a nod to the store’s past, and the introduction of fresh elements, signaling a warm welcome to new possibilities.

    About Songmont

    Songmont is a designer brand known for its premium leather bags and accessories that are not only functional but also carry a distinctive Eastern-inspired aesthetic. Among its assortment of products are the Luna Bag, Song Bag, Gather Bag, Drippy Tote, and Chocolate Bag. These are often characterized by their convertible designs, offering versatility to their users.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept behind the redesign of Songmont’s flagship store in Shanghai?
    The redesign retains the original design concept, ‘Windy Mountain Valley’, while introducing new elements to add more depth and definition to the store layout.

    What does the revamped store represent for Songmont?
    The updated store space presents a harmonious blend of the familiar, a nod to the store’s past, and the introduction of fresh elements, signaling a warm welcome to new possibilities and growth.

    What products does Songmont specialise in?
    Songmont specialises in premium, functional leather bags and accessories featuring Eastern-inspired aesthetics. Their product lineup includes the Luna Bag, Song Bag, Gather Bag, Drippy Tote, and Chocolate Bag, which often feature convertible designs.

  • Blue Bottle Coffee Unveils Flagship Store in Harajuku, Japan: A Fusion of Innovative Design and Local Flavors

    Blue Bottle Coffee Unveils Flagship Store in Harajuku, Japan: A Fusion of Innovative Design and Local Flavors

    Blue Bottle Coffee, the renowned global coffee brand, has launched a premier outlet in Harajuku, marking a significant step in its ongoing refinement of its retail format within Japan.

    A New Blend of Retail

    The Harajuku outlet is nestled in Jingumae near Cat Street, occupying a spatial expanse of approximately 83 square meters and accommodating 26 seats. The store showcases a unique design by Teki Design and harmoniously melds a stainless-steel façade with reflective interiors. This design subtly extracts and mirrors the vibrant streetscape, thereby encapsulating Harajuku’s trademark, visually engaging retail atmosphere.

    The store features a unique layout that departs from the conventional high-throughput service model. Its seating arrangement and spatial design encourage customers to linger, thereby fostering a more experiential approach that surpasses the mere transactional model.

    Brewing a New Retail Experience

    While the Harajuku outlet is termed a flagship store, Blue Bottle Coffee’s primary focus appears to be on format experimentation rather than territorial expansion. The new store introduces an array of innovative beverage offerings such as an updated cold brew along with seasonal drinks. Additionally, it offers a curated food menu designed to cater to the unique tastes of the local market.

    Blue Bottle Coffee first expanded its footprint into Japan in 2015 with the launch of its inaugural store in Kiyosumi, Tokyo. Since then, the brand has exponentially grown and now operates around 30 outlets, with most of them located in the bustling Tokyo metropolitan area.

    In 2021, Blue Bottle Coffee expanded its global presence by inaugurating its first outlet in Singapore, thereby marking its initial foray into the Southeast Asian market.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new approach adopted by Blue Bottle Coffee in its Harajuku store?
    Blue Bottle Coffee’s Harajuku store adopts an experiential approach, focusing on longer customer dwell times rather than a purely transactional model.

    What new offerings does the Harajuku store introduce?
    The Harajuku store introduces new beverage offerings, including an updated cold brew and seasonal drinks, and a curated food menu tailored to the local market.

    When and where did Blue Bottle Coffee make its first debut in Japan?
    Blue Bottle Coffee first debuted in Japan in 2015 with its initial outlet in Kiyosumi, Tokyo.

  • Coca-Cola Unveils New Absolut Vodka & Sprite Fusion: A Game Changer in Australia’s Ready-to-Drink Market

    Coca-Cola Unveils New Absolut Vodka & Sprite Fusion: A Game Changer in Australia’s Ready-to-Drink Market

    Coca-Cola Australia has broadened its alcoholic ready-to-drink range with the introduction of mixed drinks featuring Absolut Vodka and Sprite.

    Varieties in the New Range

    The new product line includes two distinct variants: Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite and Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite Zero Sugar. Both the versions maintain a modest alcohol by volume (ABV) content of 5 per cent, offered in 330ml cans.

    Available Packaging Options

    Customers have the option to buy these beverages in 4-packs, 10-packs, or bulk 24-can cases. The range of packaging options caters to different customer needs, whether it’s for personal consumption or a social gathering.

    Developing a Premium, Refreshing RTD Option

    Matthias Blume, Vice President of ARTD at Coca-Cola Australia, spoke about the recent launch. He stated that the introduction of Absolut Vodka Mixed With Sprite is a fusion of two renowned brands, aiming to provide a high-quality, invigorating ready-to-drink option for consumers in Australia. He also emphasized that this product is a valuable addition to their expanding ARTD portfolio, as it mirrors the ongoing momentum of the category and responds to the increasing consumer demand.

    Notably, this isn’t Absolut Vodka’s first foray into creative flavor combinations. The brand had previously collaborated with Tabasco to introduce a spicy flavor variant to its range.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the two versions of the new product launched by Coca-Cola Australia?
    Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite and Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite Zero Sugar are the two versions introduced in the new range.

    What are the available packaging options for this new range?
    Consumers can purchase these beverages in 4-packs, 10-packs, or 24-can cases.

    What is the significance of this new product range according to Matthias Blume, VP ARTD at Coca-Cola Australia?
    Matthias Blume suggests that the introduction of Absolut Vodka Mixed With Sprite reflects not only the momentum of the category but also the increasing consumer demand. It is intended to provide a premium, refreshing ready-to-drink option for Australian consumers.

  • Panpuri Unveils ‘Teahouse of Scent’ Flagship in Macau: A Fusion of Traditions and Modern Fragrance Experience

    Panpuri Unveils ‘Teahouse of Scent’ Flagship in Macau: A Fusion of Traditions and Modern Fragrance Experience

    Panpuri, a wellness brand from Thailand, has made a significant stride in its broader expansion plan across Greater China with the inauguration of its premier flagship boutique in Macau.

    The Teahouse of Scent: A Unique Boutique Concept

    The newly established Panpuri Sensorial Boutique, nestled within the heart of The Venetian Macau, takes its design inspiration from the concept of ‘The Teahouse of Scent’. This motif is deeply rooted in Macau’s rich cultural heritage and its long-standing tradition of tea drinking. The store is an imaginative ode to Casa de Cha Long Wa, the last of Macau’s authentic Chinese teahouses, transforming timeless tea rituals into an immersive modern fragrance experience.

    A Reflection of Macau’s Heritage and Panpuri’s Vision

    Commenting on the launch, Vorravit Siripak, Founder and CEO of Panpuri, shared his belief that Macau holds a crucial role in the brand’s regional expansion. The city’s rich history of cultural exchange and craftsmanship resonates with Panpuri’s commitment to promoting holistic well-being. The first-of-its-kind flagship boutique, according to Siripak, is more than just a retail destination. It aims to be a sanctuary that mirrors Macau’s unique heritage and introduces Panpuri’s distinctive approach to fragrance and wellness to the wider community in Greater China.

    Inspired Interior and Signature Scent

    The boutique’s interior is a synergy of misty blue walls, oxidised green metal details, and dark walnut finishes, reminiscent of the design of traditional teahouses. At the core of the store is the ‘Oolong Ritual’, a unique scent inspired by traditional tea ceremonies. This signature fragrance enhances the in-store experience, transforming the tea ritual into a contemporary sensory journey.

    Panpuri made its first global venture in 2024 by opening a flagship store at K11 Musea in Hong Kong. This boutique, however, followed a distinct concept called ‘The Perfumist’s Chamber’, which elegantly fused Thai culture with the dynamic energy of Hong Kong.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept behind the new Panpuri Sensorial Boutique store in Macau?
    The Panpuri Sensorial Boutique in Macau is designed with the concept of ‘The Teahouse of Scent’, which is inspired by Macau’s rich cultural heritage and long tradition of tea drinking.

    How does the interior of the new Panpuri boutique reflect the brand’s vision?
    The interior of the boutique features misty blue walls, oxidised green metal details, and dark walnut finishes, reminiscent of the design of traditional teahouses. At the heart of the store is the ‘Oolong Ritual’, a signature scent inspired by traditional tea ceremonies, which speaks to the brand’s focus on holistic well-being through sensory experiences.

    What was Panpuri’s first international location?
    Panpuri’s first international venture was a flagship store at K11 Musea in Hong Kong, which opened in 2024.

  • Dior Unveils Largest Southeast Asia Outlet In Bangkok: A New Era Of Luxury Retail Experience

    Dior Unveils Largest Southeast Asia Outlet In Bangkok: A New Era Of Luxury Retail Experience

    Dior Beauty has unveiled its most expansive outlet in Southeast Asia, located in the Siam Takashimaya section of Bangkok’s IconSiam center. This move marks a strategic expansion in one of the most significant luxury consumer markets in the region.

    The latest Dior store exemplifies the firm’s innovative global retail strategy. It offers a curated selection of fragrances, makeup, and skincare products, all under one roof. The focus is on delivering a tailored and immersive retail experience for the brand’s discerning customers.

    A standout feature of the boutique is the private VVIC Lounge, a space meticulously designed for personalized beauty consultations. Additionally, beauty enthusiasts can indulge in Dior La Suite, an exclusive room offering bespoke facials using the brand’s cutting-edge skincare technology.

    Fragrances play a pivotal role in the store’s unique ambiance. The exquisite La Collection Privee Christian Dior is showcased in a distinct area, shaped in collaboration with the celebrated perfume creation director, Francis Kurkdjian. The boutique offers a host of customization services, such as refillable Amphora bottles and engraving.

    The boutique’s makeup area features top-tier products crafted under the guidance of Peter Philips, the creative and image director for Dior Makeup. This includes popular items like Rouge Dior and Dior Forever. Moreover, skincare ranges like Dior Prestige, Dior Capture, and L’Or de Vie are displayed with innovative digital diagnostic tools that help customers select suitable products.

    Since the dawn of the Year of the Horse, IconSiam has seen a rise in its luxury portfolio with several upscale brand debuts. One such example is Moncler, which opened its first company-owned store in Thailand at the IconSiam retail complex.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the standout feature of the new Dior Beauty boutique?
    The standout feature is the private VVIC Lounge, a space designed for personalized beauty consultations.

    What are some of the personalization services offered at the boutique?
    The boutique offers a host of personalization services such as refillable Amphora bottles and engraving.

    What are some of the featured product ranges at the store?
    The store features popular makeup items like Rouge Dior and Dior Forever as well as skincare ranges like Dior Prestige, Dior Capture, and L’Or de Vie.

  • Hollister Boosts Hong Kong Presence with New Store at K11 Art Mall: A Fusion of American Vintage and Chinese New Year Collections”

    Hollister Boosts Hong Kong Presence with New Store at K11 Art Mall: A Fusion of American Vintage and Chinese New Year Collections”

    Hollister, an offspring of Abercrombie & Fitch Co., has broadened its physical retail footprint in Hong Kong with the launch of a new store at K11 Art Mall.

    Store Design and Offerings

    The store’s interior design is a reflection of Hollister’s American-vintage theme, featuring wooden floors, navy accents, and an open layout. The window displays are currently showcasing Chinese New Year merchandise, and the festive design elements can also be observed in the fitting-room areas.

    Hollister’s new store offers a wide range of its core apparel lines, inclusive of denim, casual wear, and seasonal collections. Denim continues to be a major focus at the K11 Art Mall store, boasting a diverse offering of baggy, flare, and straight-leg fits available in multiple sizes.

    In addition to the standard offerings, the store has stocked up on new seasonal ranges. This includes the Love Hollister collection and a Chinese New Year capsule designed to celebrate the Year of the Horse. The latter features hoodies and sweatshirts adorned with red-toned updates.

    Hollister’s Growing Presence in Hong Kong

    The launch of the K11 Art Mall store highlights Hollister’s continued commitment to expanding its brick-and-mortar presence in Hong Kong. This comes at a time when international fashion brands are sustaining their investments in physical stores, parallel to their digital channels.

    Abercrombie & Fitch experienced a surge in sales last year, posting record second-quarter numbers. Hollister played a significant role in this growth, contributing a 19 per cent increase in sales.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the design concept of Hollister’s new store at K11 Art Mall?
    The store follows Hollister’s American-vintage concept with wooden flooring, navy accents, and an open layout.

    What clothing lines does the new Hollister store carry?
    The store carries Hollister’s core apparel lines, including denim, casual wear, and seasonal collections. It also offers a Chinese New Year capsule and the Love Hollister collection.

    How did Hollister contribute to Abercrombie & Fitch’s growth last year?
    Hollister significantly contributed to Abercrombie & Fitch’s growth last year, accounting for a 19 per cent increase in sales.

  • Loewe Unveils Its Largest Japanese Store in Tokyo’s Glamorous Ginza District: A Fusion of Luxury Fashion and Art

    Loewe Unveils Its Largest Japanese Store in Tokyo’s Glamorous Ginza District: A Fusion of Luxury Fashion and Art

    Spanish luxury brand Loewe has continued its expansion in Asia with the opening of a new flagship store in Tokyo’s renowned Ginza district. Japan remains a crucial market for the brand, and the latest outlet signifies a strategic expansion of its retail presence.

    A Landmark Store

    The Casa Loewe Ginza store is the largest of its kind in Japan and second-largest globally. It occupies a prime location at the intersection of Chuo-dori and Miyuki-dori, an area famed for its luxury shopping culture. The sprawling four-story store offers the brand’s complete collection of products, including men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories, fragrances, and home items.

    An Ode to Art and Design

    The Casa Loewe concept, which intertwines retail with elements of art and design, is at the heart of the store. The exterior of the building is adorned with handcrafted ceramic tiles in a muted green hue, paying tribute to Ginza’s historical landscape. Inside the store, artworks and craft pieces are tastefully displayed alongside the brand’s merchandise, creating an immersive shopping experience.

    Celebrating with Unique Collaborations

    In celebration of the new store’s opening, Loewe has released exclusive items created in partnership with Kyoto-based ceramic studio, Suna Fujita. These special items add an element of local artisanal craftsmanship to the brand’s offering, further enhancing its appeal to the discerning Japanese market.

    Loewe’s parent company, the French luxury group LVMH, continues to prioritize the opening of brick-and-mortar locations in major cities across the globe, despite the rising trend of online shopping.

    In 2020, LVMH unveiled the Casa Loewe megastore in Shanghai, marking the brand’s largest flagship in Asia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Casa Loewe concept?
    The Casa Loewe concept is an innovative retail approach that integrates art and design elements into the shopping experience.

    How does Loewe’s new store in Tokyo compare in size to its other global locations?
    The Casa Loewe Ginza store is the largest in Japan and the second-largest worldwide.

    What unique offering has Loewe created to celebrate the opening of its new Ginza store?
    Loewe has produced exclusive items in collaboration with Suna Fujita, a Kyoto-based ceramic studio, to celebrate the launch of the new store.

  • Zara Unveils Japan’s First Zacaffe within its Osaka Flagship Store: A Fusion of Fashion and Culture

    Zara Unveils Japan’s First Zacaffe within its Osaka Flagship Store: A Fusion of Fashion and Culture

    Spanish retailer, Zara, has inaugurated a new flagship store in the Shinsaibashi district of Osaka, marking the introduction of Japan’s inaugural Zacaffe. This innovative café concept is an initiative by the brand to establish a cultural symbiosis with every city it operates in.

    Architectural Synergy

    The store, spanning a generous 1,900 square meters across four floors, is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architectural elements and modern design aesthetics. The interior design utilizes traditional elements such as tatami, adobe, and noren, alongside hammered black metal and steel finishes, creating a fusion of historic influences with contemporary styling.

    Product Display and Boutique Spaces

    The flagship store showcases a range of product display areas and exclusive “boutique” spaces. The store uses custom-made furniture and uniquely designed layouts to emphasize specific collections, contributing to a tailored and immersive customer experience.

    Brand Lines and Accessory Selection

    The Shinsaibashi outlet also houses dedicated sections for distinct brand lines. Furthermore, the store boasts an expanded catalogue of footwear and accessories, offering a comprehensive shopping experience to its patrons.

    Zara said, “The entire space is intuitively designed to provide a welcoming and immersive shopping experience, seamlessly integrating both women’s and kids’ collections.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique feature of the new Zara store in Osaka’s Shinsaibashi district?
    The store marks the introduction of Japan’s first Zacaffe, a café concept with the aim of establishing a cultural connection with the city.

    What architectural elements does the new Zara store incorporate?
    The store design combines traditional Japanese elements like tatami, adobe, and noren with contemporary elements such as hammered black metal and steel finishes.

    What does the Zara store offer in terms of products and collections?
    The store features distinct display zones and boutique spaces to highlight specific collections. Additionally, it includes areas for distinct brand lines and an expanded selection of footwear and accessories.

  • KFC’s Zinger Banh Mi Sparks Debate: Innovative Fusion or Vietnamese Cuisine Faux Pas?

    KFC’s Zinger Banh Mi Sparks Debate: Innovative Fusion or Vietnamese Cuisine Faux Pas?

    KFC Australia has stirred up a buzz in the culinary world with its unique food fusion, the Zinger Banh Mi. This novel dish marries KFC’s crispy chicken fillet with a classic Vietnamese sandwich, introducing a fresh and somewhat unconventional dining experience.

    A Taste of Innovation

    On November 4, KFC Australia rolled out the Zinger Banh Mi across the country, following a successful trial run in Newcastle. This limited-edition dish comprises coleslaw, chili, coriander, mayonnaise, KFC Supercharger sauce, and a Zinger chicken fillet, all nestled within a traditional Banh Mi roll.

    Sally Spriggs, KFC’s group marketing director, expressed her excitement about the new offering. She said, “At KFC, we love putting our own spin on modern foods, and the Zinger Banh Mi is our take on a dearly-loved classic. It’s an exquisite blend of spice, freshness, and texture, a truly tantalising combination that heralds flavor innovation while offering our fans a fresh way to savour our renowned Zinger.”

    Melding Flavours and Cultures

    Food enthusiasts have shown considerable interest in this unique concoction. Georgia Mahood hailed it as the “ultimate flavor fusion”, characterising it as a marriage of KFC’s signature spice with the light and refreshing flavours typical of a Banh Mi. The traditional Vietnamese sandwich usually comprises a crusty baguette filled with ingredients like pate, grilled chicken, beef, pickles, and herbs.

    However, not all reactions to the Zinger Banh Mi have been entirely positive. Some critics, particularly those familiar with traditional Banh Mi, have expressed scepticism. One reviewer noted, “The banh mi from KFC was tasty, but it didn’t really taste like a banh mi. It’s missing the absolutely vital ingredients that define a banh mi!”

    The Zinger Banh Mi is available at select KFC restaurants, priced from AUD9.95 (US$6.50). However, this offering is only available until December 1.

    A Global Taste Journey

    The Zinger Banh Mi is part of KFC’s strategy to expand its menu with international-inspired offerings. This initiative features a series of limited-edition releases that tap into global food trends. Other offerings include the Sweet Tokyo Feast, which boasts crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet teriyaki-style glaze and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Earlier, the fast-food chain launched a kebab range that combined its iconic Original Recipe and Zinger chicken with flavourful salads and sauces.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Zinger Banh Mi?
    The Zinger Banh Mi is a fusion of KFC’s crispy chicken fillet and a traditional Vietnamese sandwich. It features coleslaw, chili, coriander, mayonnaise, KFC Supercharger sauce, and a Zinger chicken fillet, served on a Banh Mi roll.

    Where can the Zinger Banh Mi be purchased, and for how long?
    The Zinger Banh Mi is available at selected KFC restaurants until December 1. The price starts at AUD9.95 (US$6.50).

    What other international-inspired offerings has KFC introduced?
    KFC has launched a series of limited-edition menu items inspired by international cuisine. These include the Sweet Tokyo Feast, featuring teriyaki-style glazed chicken, and a range of kebabs combining its Original Recipe and Zinger chicken with salads and sauces.

  • Sumo Sushi & Bento launches in India

    Sumo Sushi & Bento launches in India

    Dubai Japanese restaurant chain Sumo Sushi & Bento is entering the Indian market.

    The firm has partnered with local operator FranGlobal to open up to 25 outlets within five years, with the first location launching in either Delhi or Mumbai within six months.

    “India is a vibrant and exciting country and people are demanding new cuisines and we will hit the mark on it,” said Sumo Sushi & Bento CEO Julianne Holt Kailihiwa. “There’s already awareness, interest and curiosity among Indians around Japanese cuisine, especially fusion oriented food. Sumo has been successfully running its chain of restaurants for 20 years catering to Middle East customers who have a very cosmopolitan taste. There’s also a big Indian customer base in Dubai hence we feel that India reasonably should be a scalable market for the brand.”

    The firm has been operating in the Middle East for almost 20 years, catering to a cosmopolitan customer base with a strong vegetarian menu segment. It will be targeting a similar clientele in India’s major urban hubs.

    “Our biggest challenge is to provide good quality product at a competitive price because the raw material used in Japanese cuisine is expensive,” said Franglobal CEO Venus Barak. “Our quality matches the ones offered in a five-star hotel. We also plan to introduce beer and wine in the menu.”

  • Ford Launches Testing Of New Self-Driving Fleet In Detroit

    Ford Launches Testing Of New Self-Driving Fleet In Detroit

    Ford Motor Co’s majority-owned autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Argo AI, launched its new fleet of self-driving test vehicles – Ford Fusion Hybrid – in Detroit on Wednesday, expanding its presence to five U.S. cities. The new cars are equipped with upgraded sensors, including radars and cameras with higher resolution and range, the company said.

    The No. 2 U.S. automaker is in talks with German carmaker Volkswagen AG to develop self-driving vehicles as its autonomous vehicles unit competes for investment and engineering talent with peers as well as technology companies.

    General Motors’ majority-owned Cruise robotaxi business, Aurora, recently announced a partnership with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, while Alphabet and Uber are also investing in their self-driving projects.

    Argo already operates vehicles in Pittsburgh, Palo Alto, Miami and Washington D.C.

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  • India’s GCX expands cloud ecosystem

    India’s GCX expands cloud ecosystem

    Reliance Communications subsidiary Global Cloud Xchange (GCX) has expanded its cloud ecosystem with the addition of support for Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute.

    The company is offering access to ExpressRoute via its CLOUD X Fusion service in Chennai.

    CLOUD X Fusion allows enterprises to use Ethernet or MPLS VPN to privately connect their on-premise network or data center directly to Microsoft’s cloud platforms.

    Besides Chennai, CLOUD X nodes have been launched in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad, as well as Hong Kong, California, London and New York.

    “As India enterprises enter a new era of digital globalization, they require sophisticated new levels of support to tap into opportunities from the convergence of Big Data and the IoT, to the latest augmented reality apps,” RCom and GCX SVP of global product management Braham Singh said.

    “Through the interconnection of CLOUD X Fusion and Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute, customers will benefit from the added flexibility and global reach to be more competitive as we look at new opportunities from the ‘Digital India’ initiatives.”

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