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Tag: launch

  • Issa Rae Pens Anthem For Beyond Yoga’s New Retail Brand Launch: Seek Beyond

    Issa Rae Pens Anthem For Beyond Yoga’s New Retail Brand Launch: Seek Beyond

    Beyond Yoga has introduced a fresh retail brand, Seek Beyond, unveiled in conjunction with a marketing campaign that includes an original anthem penned and sung by Issa Rae. The initiative runs parallel to the launch of Beyond Yoga’s latest Outdoor collection and will be amplified through digital media and various community engagements.

    Issa Rae shared that the collaboration with Beyond Yoga feels instinctive. She believes that the Seek Beyond ethos mirrors her approach to life, which is a preference for progress over flawlessness, executed with purpose, delight, and humor. The anthem she wrote is her expression of this sentiment.

    Nancy Green, Beyond Yoga’s CEO, expressed that the new platform embodies the company’s fundamental principles. According to her, it mirrors the manner their community participates – with receptivity, empathy, and a strong conviction that the act of moving is not merely physical but is also a method of personal growth.

    Beyond Yoga was established in Los Angeles in the year 2005. The brand provides a variety of lifestyle necessities such as outerwear, fleece, and performance trousers.

    Currently, the brand manages over 1200 wholesale accounts throughout the United States and international markets. Levi Strauss & Co acquired it in September 2021.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Beyond Yoga’s new retail brand?
    Beyond Yoga’s new retail brand is called Seek Beyond.

    Who wrote and performed the anthem for the Seek Beyond campaign?
    The anthem for the Seek Beyond campaign was written and performed by Issa Rae.

    When and where was the Beyond Yoga established?
    Beyond Yoga was established in Los Angeles, in the year 2005.

  • Oh!some Expands Regional Presence With New Bangkok Store, Unveils Disney Collaboration

    Oh!some Expands Regional Presence With New Bangkok Store, Unveils Disney Collaboration

    The lifestyle brand Oh!Some is making its debut in Thailand, signaling further growth in its regional presence, which includes a recent inauguration in Ho Chi Minh City.

    Store Location and Interior Concept

    Oh!Some’s newest retail branch will be positioned in Samyan Mitrtown, right in the heart of Bangkok. The store’s interior is conceived with an “ice and snow world” theme, a design specifically crafted to entice the Gen Z demographic through its captivating and photogenic displays.

    Product Line and Collaborations

    The product portfolio at the store will span across several categories. Customers can expect to find items ranging from beauty and skincare products, fragrances, and stationery to toys, collectibles, snacks, and home decor.

    In addition to its regular offerings, the store will also feature exclusive merchandise produced in collaboration with Disney. These exclusive collections will showcase beloved characters such as Stitch, Winnie the Pooh and a future line inspired by Mickey Mouse with a denim theme.

    Existing Presence and Future Plans

    At present, Oh!Some operates over 130 stores spread out across Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The brand has further expansion plans within the city of Bangkok, with more branches set to open in various districts later in the year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the interior design concept of the new Oh!Some store in Bangkok?
    The store features an “ice and snow world” theme designed to attract Gen Z consumers with visually striking, photo-friendly displays.

    What kind of products will be available in the new Oh!Some store?
    The store will offer a range of products across categories, including beauty and skincare, fragrances, stationery, toys, collectibles, snacks, and home decor.

    Does Oh!Some have any collaborations planned for their new store in Bangkok?
    Yes, the store will have exclusive items produced in collaboration with Disney, including themed collections featuring Stitch, Winnie the Pooh, and a forthcoming denim-inspired Mickey Mouse line.

  • Coca-Cola Beats Earnings Expectations Despite Sales Dip; Unveils Cane Sugar Product For Us Market

    Coca-Cola Beats Earnings Expectations Despite Sales Dip; Unveils Cane Sugar Product For Us Market

    Coca-Cola’s quarterly earnings have surpassed expectations, the company reported on Tuesday, due to increased pricing. This comes despite a decrease in sales volumes in significant markets, and the announcement of a new Coca-Cola product made with cane sugar for the U.S. market.

    Higher Prices and Lower Volumes

    The boost in prices compensated for a 1 per cent decline in sales volumes, which had increased by 2 per cent in the previous two quarters. The decline was primarily due to a decrease in sales in essential markets, including Mexico and India, and within the Coca-Cola brand in the United States. After adjusting for certain items, the company made a profit of 87 cents per share, surpassing the expected 83 cents.

    Sales of higher-priced sodas have fluctuated in recent times, especially in wealthier nations, as consumers with lower incomes become more price-sensitive.

    Healthier Substitutes

    In response to demands for healthier alternatives, food companies are looking to diversify their offerings. Recently, President Donald Trump announced that Coca-Cola had agreed to use real cane sugar in the United States. Coca-Cola’s CEO, James Quincey, stated during a post-earnings call that the company is exploring different sweetening options to meet consumer demand. This new cane sugar product will “complement” the company’s existing range, he added.

    Competing brand PepsiCo, which also exceeded quarterly earnings estimates recently, stated it would use natural ingredients if consumers expressed a preference for them.

    International Success and Domestic Challenges

    Coca-Cola already sells Coke made with cane sugar in various markets, including Mexico. Some U.S. grocery stores also offer glass bottles of Coke made with cane sugar, labelled as “Mexican” Coke.

    However, the transition to cane sugar will increase costs, including significant changes to supply chains, according to industry analysts. Higher-priced products could also put pressure on consumer budgets, as Quincey acknowledged that sales volumes in North America decreased due to continuing uncertainty and pressure affecting certain socioeconomic consumer segments.

    Coca-Cola maintains that the cost implications due to “global trade dynamics” are manageable. Approximately 61 per cent of the company’s revenue is derived from overseas markets.

    Higher Pricing and Volume Recovery

    Coca-Cola’s comparable revenue for the three months ending June 27 rose 2.5 per cent to $12.62 billion, outperforming the forecasted $12.54 billion. Quincey stated that a boycott-related drop in demand in the U.S. and Mexico has largely been resolved.

    Annual comparable earnings per share are expected to be near the upper limit of the company’s target increase range of 2 to 3 per cent, aided by a weaker dollar.

    Sales volumes of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar soared, with a 14 per cent increase recorded across all geographies.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the cause of the decrease in Coca-Cola’s sales volumes?
    The decrease in sales volumes was primarily due to a decline in sales in key markets such as Mexico and India, and within the Coca-Cola brand in the U.S.

    Is Coca-Cola planning to introduce new products to the market?
    Yes, Coca-Cola has announced it will introduce a new product made with cane sugar to the U.S. market as part of their commitment to meet consumer demand for healthier alternatives.

    What is the outlook for Coca-Cola’s annual comparable earnings per share?
    The annual comparable earnings per share are expected to be near the upper limit of Coca-Cola’s target increase range of 2 to 3 per cent, aided by a weaker dollar.

  • Von Dutch Diversifies: Fashion Brand Ventures Into Food, Beverage, And Hospitality Sectors

    Von Dutch Diversifies: Fashion Brand Ventures Into Food, Beverage, And Hospitality Sectors

    Fashion label, Von Dutch, is broadening its horizons by venturing into sectors of food, beverage, and hospitality. The company has officially disclosed a worldwide food and beverage licensing agreement. As a result of this agreement, the brand will introduce a collection of drinks, snacks focussed on health and wellness, and a blend of cafe-lounges under the name of Von Dutch F&B. This initiative is under the leadership of CEO Joe Wallace, a seasoned executive known for securing millions in funding and pioneering a variety of products in food tech, consumer goods, and hospitality.

    As expressed by Wallace, the vision is to create an empire far beyond just a food brand. The brand’s philosophy will hinge on entertainment, authenticity, wellness, hospitality, and a fresh vitality.

    New Product Launches

    In partnership with beverage incubator Flavor House, Von Dutch F&B will launch an organic, plant-based line of sodas and mocktails. Other exciting ventures include a new alcohol line featuring vodka, tequila, beer, and hard seltzers. This move complements the brand’s existing product – Von Dutch Water, known as a high-quality hydration product that has gained popularity across various outlets from convenience stores to bars and music festivals.

    Von Dutch Cafes and Sub-Brand Launch

    Von Dutch plans on opening its brand-new cafes in New York and Los Angeles over the next year. These spaces will transition from being daytime hubs for coffee and snacks to after-hours hotspots featuring cocktails, mocktails, and live entertainment.

    The brand, which was taken over by the White Space Group (WSG) in 2024, also plans on launching an engaging sub-brand called ‘Von Dutch Loves.’ This sub-brand will highlight music, nightlife, and underground culture through exclusive releases, artist partnerships, festival collaborations, and community-centered events.

    WSG CEO Jack Cheika expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that the goal is to create cultural relevance in every aspect of people’s lives, from how they dress to how they dine, drink, and socialize.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new venture of Von Dutch?
    Von Dutch is expanding its brand into the food, beverage, and hospitality sectors under the name Von Dutch F&B.

    What products will Von Dutch F&B be launching?
    Von Dutch F&B plans to launch a range of organic, plant-based sodas and mocktails as well as a new alcohol line including vodka, tequila, beer, and hard seltzers.

    What is the aim of the ‘Von Dutch Loves’ sub-brand?
    The ‘Von Dutch Loves’ sub-brand is designed to highlight music, nightlife, and underground culture through exclusive releases, artist partnerships, festival collaborations, and community-centered events.

  • JD Logistics Unveils Groundbreaking Express Delivery Service In Saudi Arabia: A Leap In Global Expansion Strategy

    JD Logistics Unveils Groundbreaking Express Delivery Service In Saudi Arabia: A Leap In Global Expansion Strategy

    JD Logistics, the logistics subsidiary of Chinese e-commerce behemoth JD.com, recently unveiled its consumer-centric express delivery service, JoyExpress, in Saudi Arabia – the first of its kind outside of China.

    JD Logistics’ Market Expansion

    JD Logistics is widely reputed for its self-built warehousing and delivery infrastructure in China, where it manages over 3,600 warehouses. The introduction of JoyExpress takes this efficient, self-operated model to international frontiers, promising speedy delivery services within the same day in Saudi Arabia.

    The move signifies a pioneering stride in JD.com’s revitalized global expansion strategy, as disclosed by the company’s founder and chairman, Richard Liu. The growth opportunities in domestic markets are increasingly elusive for e-commerce giants due to deflationary pressures amplified by stagnating consumer confidence, a drawn-out property crisis, and wage growth concerns in China.

    In a recent discussion in Beijing, Liu underscored the significance of international markets for JD.com’s future growth. He also hinted at a likely hastening of the company’s overseas ventures in the imminent future.

    Strengthening the European Footprint and Beyond

    “We’ve been operational in Europe for three years, and we’ve essentially established our logistics infrastructure there. Nevertheless, it’s inadequate,” Liu said. Over the last half-decade, which Liu refers to as “lost years,” JD.com has broadened its competitive scope to include companies like Chinese food delivery titan Meituan, across diverse sectors from food delivery to travel booking.

    Earlier this year, JD.com launched JD Takeaway, a direct rival to Meituan. In addition, Meituan has also broadened its footprint in Saudi Arabia in recent years.

    Summing up the company’s performance over the last five years, Liu expressed regret over the lack of innovation at JD.com, referring to this period as one of decline for the company.

    Cryptocurrency Ambitions

    Liu also disclosed JD.com’s intentions to procure stablecoin licenses in countries with major currencies. The objective of this venture is to streamline foreign exchange transactions between international corporations, thereby lessening the cost of cross-border payments by up to 90% and boosting efficiency to within 10 seconds.

    In 2021, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) disclosed that Jingdong Coinlink Technology Hong Kong, a fully-owned subsidiary of JD Technology, had joined its stablecoin issuer sandbox. The sandbox initiative is an HKMA framework that communicates regulatory expectations to institutions keen on issuing stablecoins in Hong Kong.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of JD Logistics launching JoyExpress in Saudi Arabia?
    Launching JoyExpress in Saudi Arabia marks JD Logistics’ first consumer-focused express delivery service outside of China, indicating a significant step in its global expansion strategy.

    What are JD.com’s future plans concerning global expansion?
    According to the company’s founder, Richard Liu, JD.com plans to accelerate its overseas ventures, with emphasis on strengthening its footprint in Europe and exploring new sectors, such as food delivery and travel booking.

    What are JD.com’s intentions regarding stablecoin licenses?
    JD.com plans to acquire stablecoin licenses in countries with major currencies. The initiative aims to streamline foreign exchange transactions between international corporations, reducing the cost of cross-border payments by up to 90% and boosting efficiency to within 10 seconds.

  • Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 Electric Bike To Launch In 2026

    Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 Electric Bike To Launch In 2026

    Royal Enfield, a leading motorcycle brand, has announced its foray into the electric motorcycle market with the introduction of its new brand, Flying Flea. The first model under this brand will be the C6, scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2026. The company plans to follow up with the introduction of model S6, an entirely different product that will further diversify the brand’s offerings. Information pertaining to the operations and dealership network for the new electric vehicle brand is yet to be disclosed.

    The Flying Flea C6

    The Flying Flea C6 was first unveiled at the EICMA exhibition and has subsequently been showcased in India. The motorcycle’s test model has been spotted during multiple trial runs, providing insights into its unique features and design elements. The C6 sports circular LED lighting, a sleek frame with an aluminium chassis and girder forks, a design infused with a blend of retro and modern aesthetics that is indicative of the brand’s distinct style. Other notable features include a split seat configuration and black alloy wheels.

    The aerodynamically designed body of the bike integrates a magnesium casing that facilitates airflow. Although Royal Enfield has not yet revealed the specifications of the C6, it is anticipated that the vehicle will offer a range of approximately 100 kilometers, making it suitable for urban use. To further enhance its city-riding capabilities, the company has focused on reducing the weight of the motorcycle to less than 100 kilograms.

    Technological Innovations

    Royal Enfield has invested significantly in incorporating advanced technology into the design of the C6. It is expected to be the most feature-packed motorcycle ever produced by the company, with a round touchscreen display that provides a host of functionalities including voice control, connectivity, and more. The bike is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processor to support these advanced features. During the C6’s unveiling, Mario Alvisi, Royal Enfield’s Chief Growth Officer for Electric Vehicles, stated that the motorcycle will boast the most innovative and state-of-the-art features.

    Questions & Answers

    When is the launch of Royal Enfield’s first electric motorcycle, the Flying Flea C6, scheduled?
    The Flying Flea C6 is slated for launch in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2026.

    What are the notable design features of the Flying Flea C6?
    The C6 is designed with circular LED lighting, a sleek frame with an aluminium chassis and girder forks, a split seat configuration, and black alloy wheels. The motorcycle’s body includes a magnesium casing that regulates airflow.

    What advanced technology features will be incorporated into the Flying Flea C6?
    The C6 will be equipped with a round touchscreen display that enables various functions such as voice control, connectivity, and more. It will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processor.

  • JD Sports Set to Launch Two Flagship Stores in the Philippines!

    JD Sports Set to Launch Two Flagship Stores in the Philippines!

    UK-based sports fashion retailer JD Sports is making a splash in the Philippines with plans to open two stores in 2025, tapping into the country’s growing streetwear and sneaker culture. The first location will debut at the bustling SM Mall of Asia come June, while a second shop will follow in the trendy Glorietta shopping center in July.

    Exclusive Offerings for Style-Conscious Shoppers

    Bringing the UK vibe to Manila, JD Sports, introduced by SSI Group, Inc., promises an exciting array of exclusive sneakers, apparel, and accessories from top global sportswear brands. Celebrated for its deep-rooted connection to sneaker culture and street style, JD is almost a rite of passage for fashion-forward consumers around the globe.

    In a statement, SSI Group emphasized that this venture is part of its broader strategy to introduce premium international brands to Filipino shoppers while enhancing local retail landscapes. So, gear up, Philippines — the sneaker game is about to get even more stylish!

    How did JD Sports decide on the Philippines for their expansion? And does this mean the local sneaker scene is getting a major upgrade? Only time will tell!

    Questions & Answers

    What types of products will JD Sports offer in the Philippines?
    JD Sports will provide a diverse selection of exclusive sneakers, apparel, and accessories from leading global sportswear brands.

    When will the JD Sports stores open in the Philippines?
    The first store is set to open in June 2025 at SM Mall of Asia, with a second location following in July at Glorietta.

    Who is responsible for bringing JD Sports to the Philippines?
    The brand is being introduced by SSI Group, Inc., which aims to elevate the local retail experience by bringing in renowned international brands.

  • Proton Launches $134,000 EV in Singapore, Boosting Brand Growth in Retail Sales

    Proton Launches $134,000 EV in Singapore, Boosting Brand Growth in Retail Sales

    Proton Makes a Charge into Singapore’s EV Market

    In a strategic comeback, Malaysia’s national carmaker Proton is re-entering the Singaporean automotive scene after a decade, unveiling its first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7. Set to start at approximately S$174,000 (around US$134,000), this move aligns perfectly with Singapore’s growing commitment to sustainable mobility.

    A Showcase of Innovation

    The e.MAS 7 was introduced at The Car Expo 2025 in Singapore over the weekend, generating excitement among attendees and industry experts alike. Available in two variations—Prime and Premium—this electric vehicle features a cutting-edge 12-in-1 electric drive system paired with an advanced Aegis short blade battery, underscoring Proton’s commitment to innovation and performance.

    Proton’s return dovetails with Singapore’s ambitious plans for greener initiatives, reflecting a wider trend in consumer demand for electric vehicles. The city-state has seen a steady increase in electric vehicle adoption, with market share rising from 12% in 2022 to 18% in 2023. Projections suggest this could soar to 55% by 2027.

    A Limited Edition Launch

    As part of its reintroduction, Proton plans to release a limited Founders Edition of the e.MAS 7. Automotive enthusiasts can expect this model to be available in Singapore showrooms as early as this August, with local dealer Vincar stepping in as Proton’s official distributor. Vincar will also establish a flagship showroom in the prominent Leng Kee motor belt to enhance its presence.

    While Proton has not confirmed pricing details for Singapore, automotive news sources estimate the e.MAS 7 will start at around S$174,000. Comparatively, the model is priced starting at RM105,800 (approximately US$32,400) in Malaysia, where it has quickly risen to become the best-selling electric vehicle in the first quarter of 2025.

    A New Era for Proton

    Proton’s last engagement in Singapore dates back to 2014, prior to the company’s acquisition by Chinese automotive group Geely, which has since revitalized the brand’s product offerings. Geely’s influence extends across several platforms in Singapore, including well-known names like Lotus, Polestar, Volvo, and Zeekr.

    Proton’s resurgence not only marks a pivotal moment for the brand but also contributes to the broader evolution of the retail automobile market in Southeast Asia, where consumer trends are increasingly leaning towards sustainable options.

    Conclusion

    Proton’s entry with the e.MAS 7 not only signifies the brand’s expansion into a competitive market but also underscores a pivotal shift in consumer preferences towards electric vehicles. As adoption rates climb, this development may shape future strategies across the automotive sector.

    Questions & Answers

    1. What is Proton’s new electric vehicle model? Proton has introduced the e.MAS 7, its first electric vehicle, in its comeback to the Singapore market.

    2. How much will the e.MAS 7 cost in Singapore? The anticipated starting price for the e.MAS 7 in Singapore is around S$174,000 (US$134,000).

    3. What are the expected consumer trends for electric vehicles in Singapore? Electric vehicle adoption in Singapore is projected to grow significantly, from 18% in 2023 to an estimated 55% by 2027.

  • Mastercard and WeLab Bank Announce the Launch of  Numberless WeLab Debit Card

    Mastercard and WeLab Bank Announce the Launch of Numberless WeLab Debit Card

    Mastercard and WeLab Bank Limited (“WeLab Bank”), a homegrown virtual bank licensed by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (“HKMA”), today announced a partnership to launch a numberless bank card that is part of a simple, intuitive and fully digital banking service that specifically caters to the tech-savvy needs and lifestyles of people all over Hong Kong.

    While WeLab Bank services are purposely designed to be 100 percent operated from the mobile phone, a physical card may have wider acceptance and provide added convenience to consumers’ daily lives, such as when making payments at certain merchants or withdrawing cash. Unlike traditional bank cards, the WeLab Debit Card is available for use immediately after opening a WeLab Bank account in the form of a virtual card from the WeLab Bank app, followed by the delivery of a physical card.

    The physical card is also good-looking and sleek, adopting a minimalist design with only the embedded multi-function chip and cardholders’ name to compliment the Mastercard and WeLab Bank logos, with all other information accessed safely from the mobile app. This is made possible by Mastercard’s fast, secure and reliable global network, providing WeLab Bank cardholders with robust, multi-layered protection when making purchases.  Some highlights are:

    • Private and secure – No card number, no card validation code (CVC2), no expiry date displayed on the physical card. Everything can be accessed privately and securely from within the WeLab Bank app.
    • Hassle-free lost card reporting – Simply open the WeLab Bank app and tap on “report lost card” to deactivate the card immediately. New card credentials will be issued to customers shortly thereafter, allowing them to continue making transactions straight away.
    • No hidden fees – No annual card fee, no reissuance fees for lost card, and no hidden transaction fees.
    • Accepted everywhere – offline or online 24/7 – Purchase items offline with a simple tap of the card, or online by copying the debit card number located in WeLab Bank’s app and your order can be completed swiftly, even from 10,000 miles away!
    • Easy access to cash withdrawals – Withdraw cash from any JETCO ATM in Hong Kong and CIRRUS ATMs that accept Mastercard cards worldwide.

    Looking at the transactions processed over the last few months, over 51 percent of physical card transactions were for Food & Beverages, followed by 31 percent for Groceries. Unsurprisingly, the daily average usage on weekends was about 1.5 times more than the volume on weekdays, consistent with the boost seen in restaurants since the most recent relaxation of social-distancing rules. Online transactions were much more diverse,  with the top two categories – Food & Beverage (leading at 31 percent) and Entertainment (13 percent) – accounting for just 44 percent compared to offline transactions where they totaled 82 percent. Both top categories are closely tied to the increased propensity to stay at home.

    Beyond local spending, over 30 percent of online transactions were processed by merchants outside of Hong Kong, powered by the worldwide acceptance and processing capabilities of Mastercard’s global network. Such data insights from customers’ behavior can further bolster WeLab Bank’s partnership with Mastercard, as well as the bank’s relationship with merchants, enabling them to deliver more relevant offers to customers.

    Ensuring further reliability for local consumers, WeLab Bank takes pride in being a homegrown virtual bank licensed by the HKMA and a member of the Deposit Protection Scheme, which means that customers’ eligible savings at WeLab Bank are protected up to a limit of HKD500,000 per depositor.

    “We want to empower the Hong Kong people by bringing them a more digital, secure and seamless banking experience, and it all starts with the card. We understand that people don’t want a traditional bank card, but a card that can bring excitement and fit with their daily lives. While Mastercard is a global leader in digital payments and WeLab Bank is a fintech pioneer entrenched in Hong Kong, we trust that our partnership combines the best of both worlds, allowing us to continue designing innovative tools for the future. We hope our customers enjoy using their gorgeous cards just as much as we have enjoyed building it.” said Adrian Tse, Chief Executive of WeLab Bank.

    “More and more Hong Kong people are adjusting their lifestyles to become technologically savvier. Understanding their evolving needs, Mastercard has partnered with WeLab Bank, a homegrown virtual bank that shares the Mastercard vision of providing a new digital banking experience where technology and innovation are the backbone. This collaboration also showcases Mastercard’s progressiveness as a leader in the payments industry, especially in safety and security, as well as its dedication in pushing forward the development of Hong Kong as a smart city,” said Helena Chen, Managing Director, Hong Kong and Macau, Mastercard.

    As a result of this collaboration between WeLab Bank and Mastercard, Hong Kong people will be able to embrace a digital lifestyle, enjoying a safe, secure and convenient banking experience.

  • Gucci unveils fragrances collection ‘The Alchemist’s Garden’

    Gucci unveils fragrances collection ‘The Alchemist’s Garden’

    Gucci has revealed its luxury fragrances collection – The Alchemist’s Garden – with oud, amber, violet, iris, mimosa, rose and woods as the seven scents. The Alchemist’s Garden collection has seven scents – oud, amber, violet, iris, mimosa, rose and woods.

    The design of the bottles is inspired by vintage apothecary, pharmacy jars and the first perfumery containers, resonating with the nostalgic theme of the collection. All the bottles are white except for oud, which is black, and rose, which is in a shade of blue chosen by Michele.

  • Loewe launches outdoor menswear collection

    Loewe launches outdoor menswear collection

    Inspired by the great outdoors, Loewe has launched a new permanent collection of functional clothes and accessories for men. The campaign features British actor Josh O’Connor in the wilds of Cap de Creus, Spain. Loewe has launched a great outdoors-inspired collection of functional clothes and accessories for men. Featuring a wide range of vibrant colours, the collection – Eye/LOEWE/Nature – makes use of recycled materials, adding an innovative touch to conventional apparel.

    The ready-to-wear collection includes jumpers knit from partly recycled cotton fibre, parkas made of technical material, outerwear, shirts, trousers and cargo shorts.

    The accessories, manufactured in Japan, boast exclusive technology. Hand-sewn from quality canvas with calfskin trim, the Eye/LOEWE/Nature backpacks come with extra cushioning and support. There are interior zip pockets in which iPads can be stored. There are also tote bags and sling sacks for men to choose from.

  • Ssangyong teases new Korando

    Ssangyong teases new Korando

    SsangYong Motor said Monday it will release a brand new sport utility vehicle in March that will replace its current Korando C SUV. The fresh model, which has been developed under the project name C300, will simply be called the “Korando,” according to the carmaker. Korando is one of SsangYong’s oldest lineups, alongside Tivoli and Rexton. The company decided to retain the name, hoping that would boost sales.

    It is the first entirely new car in the Korando lineup in eight years, since the company rolled out the midsize SUV Korando C – since then, it has just been revamped versions of existing models. Cars sold under the Korando label include the Korando Sports, Korando Turismo and Korando C, which will be discontinued when the new Korando launches.

    SsangYong also unveiled three teaser images of the car on Monday. The carmaker said it used a low and wide design for the car’s body, following a global trend. The front of the vehicle resembles SsangYong’s popular compact SUV Tivoli.

    The automaker has added various driver assistant features to the car. With the SUV market expanding, SsangYong hopes to grow its market share in the local car market with the anticipated release.

    A spokesperson from SsangYong said the new car will be the “most fascinating and high-tech Korando-branded car in history.”

  • Natural food startup Jus’ Amazin launched in India

    Natural food startup Jus’ Amazin launched in India

    Eyeing the burgeoning US$ 100 billion global natural foods and drinks industry, Jitin Munjal, former Global Director for Sales and Marketing at DuPont has announced his natural nutrition food and beverage venture, Jus’ Amazin Foods and Beverages Pvt. Ltd. Co-founded with his wife, Shilpa Mogilishetty, Jus’ Amazin started in the kitchen, as the couple were developing nutritiously rich natural food products that are delicious, for their son, who is allergic to dairy and soy products. After a lot of R&D, the kitchen experiment has now grown (over the last few months), to be present in 75 retail stores, and 20 e-commerce sites, pan-India.

    Speaking on the venture, Jitin Munjal, Co-founder and CEO of Jus’ Amazin said, “Most packaged food is highly processed, packed with chemicals and low in nutrition, and as consumer awareness about the ill-effects of chemicals in food is growing, they are demanding foods that are natural, nutritious and delicious. While trying to find dairy and soy free foods for our son, we realized how underserved the natural and nutritious food market is in India. Jus Amazin caters to the health and nutrition conscious consumer with natural wholesome foods, which are both delicious and nutritious.”

    Jitin Munjal is a seasoned professional and entrepreneur with more than 20 years of rich experience in Business Management, Marketing, Sales & Distribution, Product Development and in leading global and regional teams. Jitin has received his education from premier institutes such as Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, London School of Economics and Political Science, and has worked with blue chip companies such as P&G, Tata Group (as part of the prestigious TAS), Castrol & DuPont. In his last corporate role, Jitin was heading global marketing and sales excellence at DuPont, a leading multinational corporation with interested in varied industries. Shilpa Mogilishetty holds a Masters in Anthropology from the University of Sussex and has worked across the corporate and social sectors, in the areas of Market Research, Media Planning and Change Management.

    Jus’ Amazin’s current product range includes 100 percent natural, gluten free, soy free, dairy free and plant based foods such as nut and seed butters/ spreads (almond butter, organic peanut butter, seed butter and cashew butter). The products are currently available both online at leading e-commerce websites and also in retail stores in Bangalore, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad and Goa. Leading brands such as Foodhall, Spar, BigBasket, Namdhari’s, Modern Bazaar, Loyal World, Amazon, HealthifyMe, FirstCry, HealthKart, Qtrove, The Gourmet Box, among others have partnered with the company.

  • VinFast announces seven new car models

    VinFast announces seven new car models

    VinFast, Vietnam’s first fully-fledged car manufacturer, plans to launch seven new ‘premium’ models. Following the first line of Lux (short for Luxury) automobiles aimed at the high-end segment, VinFast, a unit of Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, Vingroup, has announced it will launch a Pre (short for Premium) car line with the aim of tapping a larger customer base.

    The company has opened a polling page for customers to vote on the seven most popular models out of a potential 35.

    The seven Pre models will include a hatchback and a CUV (crossover SUV) for the A and B segments; one Sedan and CUV for the C segment; and 1 Sedan, 1 SUV and 1 family car for the D segment.

    VinFast will continue to work closely with the famous Italian studios, Ital Design, Torino Design, and Pininfarina on designing the new models.

    VinFast showed off its first two car models, a sedan and an SUV, at the Paris Motor Show in France last October just a year after its incorporation, grabbing the attention of the local and international media.

    VinFast’s first production models built under its own badge hit the streets in August 2019.

    According to the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, total car sales in the country topped 288,000 units in 2018, up 5.9 percent from around 272,000 units in 2017.

  • Signify launches Interact IoT platform in India

    Signify launches Interact IoT platform in India

    Signify (formerly known as Philips Lighting), the world leader in lighting, has launched its new Internet of Things (IoT) platform, called Interact in India, which will enable its professional customers to unlock the full potential of connected lighting for the IoT.

    The platform delivers new insights to help customers drive operational efficiencies and take more effective decisions. It also supports the company’s strategy to deliver new data-enabled services as value expands from lighting products and systems to services.

    Signify has already installed 29 million connected light points worldwide and plans for every new LED product it produces to be connectable by 2020. This growing number of connected light points, sensors and devices, as well as systems, can collect large volumes of data for which Interact was designed to handle. The highly secure, scalable cloud-based Interact platform uses sophisticated and modern data management and data processing capabilities, including machine learning, to bring sense to all manner of data – creating data-enabled services for customers that will deliver benefits beyond illumination. It also offers a growing suite of licensed open application program interfaces (APIs) which will foster innovation from third-party developers, development partners and customers, enabling various data enabled services to be developed.

    A typical example of such a service is occupancy data from different buildings, combined and analyzed to help managers to understand and predict how people use office space. Such insights can help deliver savings by optimizing the use of existing office space and support better designed, more efficient buildings.

    In addition, data from authorized third-parties can also be analyzed by Interact. For example, for a municipal authority, news articles and social media posts, reacting to a new lighting installation on a bridge, can be analyzed and data sent to a social impact app dashboard that summarizes the public sentiment.

    Launching the platform in India, Sumit Padmakar Joshi, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Signify’s operations in India said, “First, we led the way in energy efficient LED lighting, then in connecting lighting to deliver operational benefits for our customers. Now that light points are smart enough to collect data on their performance and the environment around them, we are tapping into that intelligence. By analyzing the data from our connected lights, devices and systems, our goal is to create safer cities, energy efficient buildings and industries and smarter retail stores in the country. We are confident that this platform will deliver immense value for our professional lighting customers in India”.

    Interact connected lighting systems

    These connected lighting systems, offering a unified user experience, feature applications that address industry-specific verticals. Available now are:

    – Interact Office – enables you to turn your office into a smart sustainable workspace with software that allows you to increase building efficiency and employee productivity.

    – Interact City – helps improve street lighting, safety, reduce energy consumption, improve efficiency and support your sustainability goals and beautify the urban landscape across roads.

    – Interact Retail – enables customers to group, zone and schedule connected lighting to create stopping power in stores. It also supports in-store location-based marketing services to increase shopper engagement and indoor navigation to improve staff productivity.

    – Interact Landmark – aids in managing and triggering light shows with dynamic architectural lighting to help increase tourism, regenerate downtown areas, and stimulate commerce.

    – Interact Sports – aids in monitoring, managing and coordinating across all lighting infrastructure from a single dashboard from pitch lighting, entertainment light shows, hospitality areas and exterior architectural lighting.

    – Interact Pro – an intuitive cloud-based software for small and medium enterprises that automates lighting and allows management via the Interact Pro dashboard.

    Signify became the new company name of Philips Lighting as of May 16, 2018. The legal name of Signify will be adapted in India in the beginning of 2019.