Retail News CRM

Tag: Retail

  • Li & Fung Strikes Gold: Secures Wholesale Distribution Rights for C&C California

    Li & Fung Strikes Gold: Secures Wholesale Distribution Rights for C&C California

    Hong Kong’s premier supply chain manager, Li & Fung, has recently entered into a licensing contract with C&C California. This agreement grants Li & Fung exclusive rights to wholesale distribution across all retail platforms, including full-price, off-price, and club retailers.

    C&C California and its Specialties

    C&C California operates as a part of the larger Established Lifestyle group. The company particularly excels in the design and development of women’s swimwear, sleepwear, and outerwear.

    The newly inked contract will allow Li & Fung to manage and guide the expansion of C&C’s new product ranges and their subsequent distribution process.

    Expansion of Products Range

    In the swimwear segment, the expanded product line will include separate pieces, one-piece swimsuits, and beachwear. Their sleepwear category is also set to grow, with the introduction of separate pieces, coordinated sets, and robes.

    The outerwear products will encompass a range of seasonal styles, varying from light windbreakers to heavier garments like puffers and parkas.

    Brand Expansion and Identity

    Mel Limoncelli, Senior Vice President and head of licensed brands at Li & Fung, stated that this partnership will allow the brand to venture into new product categories while preserving its core identity.

    In his words, “The category expansions remain true to a brand heritage rooted in 70s West Coast culture. Moreover, they continue to embrace the endless summer ideal through comfort, ease of wear, and easy-care fabrics.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is the nature of the agreement between Li & Fung and C&C California?
    The agreement is a licensing contract that provides Li & Fung with the rights to manage the wholesale distribution of C&C California products across all retail platforms.

    How does this agreement benefit C&C California?
    This agreement allows C&C California to expand their product ranges under the expert management of Li & Fung. This expansion includes new lines in swimwear, sleepwear, and outerwear categories.

    What does the expansion mean for the brand’s identity?
    Despite diversifying into new product categories, the brand intends to stay true to its roots, which are embedded in the 70s West Coast culture. The expansion aims to resonate with the idea of an endless summer through comfortable, easy-to-wear, and low-maintenance fabrics.

  • Wild Tech starts Microsoft Dynamics 365 program with Metro Department Store Singapore

    Wild Tech starts Microsoft Dynamics 365 program with Metro Department Store Singapore

    Wild Tech has commenced an engagement with Metro Department Store Singapore to support the retailer’s transition away from a long-running legacy environment and into the Microsoft Dynamics 365 ecosystem. Metro is one of Singapore’s established department store brands, operating physical stores including Metro Paragon and Metro Causeway Point.

    The engagement begins with a requirements and solution study, designed to clarify Metro’s future-state finance needs and establish a practical pathway to implementation. Metro’s broader modernisation program includes changes associated with financial and inventory practices, with the initial focus placed on ensuring finance foundations are fit-for -purpose before subsequent phases are considered.

    “This is exactly the kind of engagement where getting the foundations right matters more than rushing to configuration,” said Matthew Rodgers, Head of Microsoft APAC at Wild Tech. “Metro has been clear about moving into the Microsoft Dynamics world, and our role in this phase is to bring structure and transparency to the requirements, so the implementation approach is realistic, well-governed, and able to scale into future phases as confidence grows.”

    After assessing options within the Dynamics portfolio, Metro selected Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (F&O) as the target platform. The program will be designed to support improved governance, control, and reporting capability, while creating a scalable base for future operational uplift across the wider retail environment.

    Wild Tech’s current scope centres on defining requirements, mapping priority processes, confirming data and reporting needs, and identifying key integration touchpoints typically required in retail environments. This includes establishing how finance will connect to upstream operational systems that influence inventory, costing, reconciliation, and management reporting. The work will also set out a staged roadmap intended to reduce delivery risk and avoid unnecessary disruption during transition.

     

  • Experience the Future of Retail: 7-Eleven Opens Innovative Concept Store in Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park

    Experience the Future of Retail: 7-Eleven Opens Innovative Concept Store in Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park

    7-Eleven Hong Kong has recently unveiled an innovative concept store within the boundaries of the burgeoning lifestyle and sports center, Kai Tak Sports Park. This modernized store model breaks the mold of traditional convenience store layouts and aims to offer a unique experience to its patrons.

    Creating a Unique Customer Experience

    The new 7-Eleven store, with a larger floor space, is designed to serve both the local residents and tourists visiting the Sports Park. It retains the essential convenience aspect that 7-Eleven is known for, while incorporating new features to encourage shoppers to spend more time exploring the store.

    The store is pushing the boundaries of its traditional merchandise range, now featuring stylish collectibles, toys, and the increasingly popular blind boxes, in addition to its standard ready-to-eat hot food and 7Cafe items.

    Themed Zones: A New Addition

    In an effort to diversify the shopping experience, the store layout incorporates a series of themed zones. One such zone is the Fun Zone, which caters specifically to K-pop enthusiasts with a selection of idol merchandise and collectible card machines. Another noteworthy addition is the Pet Zone, which offers a variety of pet accessories, snacks, and even a chilled gourmet pet cake line from Lifetastic Petisserie.

    Patrick Lui, Managing Director of 7-Eleven Hong Kong and Macau at DFI Retail Group, spoke enthusiastically about the new store format: “This new opening represents another progressive step for 7-Eleven Hong Kong in our ongoing quest to remain on trend, relevant, and closely engaged with our customers. We’re extremely grateful to our entire team for helping bring this concept to fruition. For those who haven’t yet visited, we invite you to come and experience it for yourself!”

    Aligning with Broader Business Strategy

    The launch of this concept store aligns with 7-Eleven Hong Kong’s broader business strategy to combine everyday convenience with an expanded product range and an experiential retail environment, in response to the changing consumer expectations.

    Looking beyond the borders of Hong Kong, 7-Eleven in the United States is also advancing at a rapid pace. The company has plans to open 1300 new stores by 2030, reinforcing foodservice as a key area for future development.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about the concept store that 7-Eleven Hong Kong has opened?
    The new store offers an enhanced shopping experience with expanded merchandise categories, introducing themed zones like the Fun Zone and Pet Zone for a more engaging customer experience.

    How does the concept store align with 7-Eleven’s broader strategy?
    The concept store is part of 7-Eleven Hong Kong’s broader strategy to meet evolving consumer expectations by blending usual convenience with a wider product mix and incorporating experiential retail elements.

    What are 7-Eleven’s growth plans in the United States?
    In the United States, 7-Eleven plans to open 1300 new stores by the year 2030, with a strong emphasis on expanding its foodservice offerings.

  • Singapore Retail Sales Momentum Cooldown in December after November’s Record Highs

    Singapore Retail Sales Momentum Cooldown in December after November’s Record Highs

    The rate of retail sales growth in Singapore experienced a significant deceleration in December, following an impressive surge in November.

    As per the data provided by the Department of Statistics, retail sales, excluding motor vehicles, saw an increase of 1.7 per cent in December. This figure shows a sharp contrast to the revised growth of 5.7 per cent reported in November, the most robust monthly gain of the year.

    The projected total retail sales value for December was approximately SG$4.1 billion (US$3.2 billion), with online sales contributing to 17 per cent of this figure.

    On a seasonally adjusted basis, December’s retail sales experienced a 6.7 per cent decline when compared to November.

    Sector-specific Performance

    In terms of year-on-year sales growth, the majority of sectors demonstrated an upward trend in the final month of the year. Leading the pack were recreational goods (13.4 per cent), computer and telecommunications equipment (12.8 per cent), and watches and jewellery (7.1 per cent).

    However, some other sectors such as supermarkets, convenience stores, cosmetics, and optical goods and books reported modest increases of less than 5 per cent.

    In contrast, petrol service stations faced a harsh 9.1 per cent drop in sales, followed by the food and alcohol sector, which saw a 7.1 per cent dip in sales.

    Food and Beverage Services

    Despite the overall dip in retail sales, the food and beverage services sector saw a marginal rise of 0.7 per cent in December. This, however, was a downslide from the 2.5 per cent growth the sector had witnessed in November.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the total projected value for retail sales in Singapore in December?
    The total projected retail sales value in Singapore for December was approximately SG$4.1 billion (US$3.2 billion).

    Which sectors experienced the most significant growth in December?
    The sectors that saw the most significant growth in December were recreational goods, computer and telecommunications equipment, and watches and jewellery.

    How did food and beverage services perform in December compared to November?
    The food and beverage services sector experienced a slight increase of 0.7 per cent in December, a decrease from the 2.5 per cent growth seen in November.

  • France’s ‘Year of Resistance’: Shein and Other Online Retail Giants Battle Unfair Competition Claims

    France’s ‘Year of Resistance’: Shein and Other Online Retail Giants Battle Unfair Competition Claims

    In the coming year, France is set to present a significant challenge to online retailers, such as Shein, according to the country’s Minister for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses, Serge Papin. He spoke out on the issue last Thursday, explaining that these online platforms are presenting an undeniable threat to French retailers.

    Concerns About Fair Competition

    Papin voiced concerns that the competition between physical stores and online platforms is far from even. He highlighted that brick-and-mortar stores are held accountable for the products they sell, whereas their online competitors are not. This discrepancy is causing concern among those in the French retail industry.

    A high-profile case is set to be heard in a Paris court involving Shein, an online marketplace that recently came under fire when child-like sex dolls were found for sale on its platform. Despite this controversy and a partial reopening of its marketplace, Shein chose not to comment on the situation.

    Calling for Regulatory Change

    The Minister claimed that such violations are not isolated incidents but are instead a systemic issue. He expressed confidence that the court will be sympathetic to his case that Shein is causing “disturbance to public order”.

    In order to address this issue, two French lawmakers are reported to be drafting a bill that would give the government the power to suspend online platforms without requiring court approval. Papin expressed a hope that this proposed legislation will lead to a decrease in Shein’s sales in France.

    International Reaction

    The rapid expansion of Shein has not been without its detractors. The company, which sells inexpensive clothing and accessories shipped directly from factories in China, has faced criticism in numerous European countries where traditional retailers are feeling the pressure.

    “We need to protect ourselves, of course, there is unfair competition, they must respect the consumer rules,” Papin stated regarding the situation.

    The French government responded by implementing a 2 euro tax due to come into effect on March 1. Similarly, the European Union plans to introduce a 3 euro tax in the summer on small parcels that were previously exempt from tariffs. This is all part of a broader strategy to curb sales by Shein and similar platforms.

    Questions & Answers

    Why are online retailers posing a threat to French chains?
    Online retailers can often bypass regulations that physical stores must adhere to, offering customers vast choice and lower prices. This has led to intense competition, perceived as unfair by traditional retailers.

    What is the proposed solution to this issue?
    The French government is considering legislation that would give them the power to suspend online platforms without court approval. They have also implemented a tax on small parcels from these platforms.

    How has the international community reacted to the rise of online retailers like Shein?
    The rise of Shein has been met with backlash in several European countries. Both France and the European Union plan to introduce taxes on small packages, which were previously exempt from tariffs, in an attempt to curb the influence of these online platforms.

  • Revitalizing Retail: Viva Energy Appoints Former Myer Exec Teresa Rendo as New CEO

    Revitalizing Retail: Viva Energy Appoints Former Myer Exec Teresa Rendo as New CEO

    Viva Energy Group, a prominent oil company, has announced the appointment of Teresa Rendo as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its retail division, Convenience and Mobility.

    Experienced Retail Executive Joins Viva Energy

    Teresa Rendo joins Viva Energy with a treasure trove of experience amounting to more than 25 years. She has held significant roles at renowned retail giants like Big W and Woolworths. Her most recent role was as the Managing Director of Myer’s Apparel Brands.

    Scott Wyatt, the Managing Director and Group CEO of Viva Energy, expressed his pleasure in welcoming Teresa to the executive leadership team. He described her as a seasoned retail leader who boasts of in-depth expertise in diverse areas such as trading, product sourcing, and innovation, as well as operational efficiency in multi-brand environments.

    Rendo’s appointment comes during a challenging period for Viva Energy’s Convenience and Mobility business. Sales had seen a downturn of 11.4% in the most recent quarter compared to the same period last year. The company also had to undertake an extensive search for a CEO following the resignation of Jevan Bouzo in September of the previous year.

    High Expectations for the New CEO

    Wyatt has high expectations for Rendo in her new role. He stated that her focus on robust retail execution will be crucial in enhancing customer experience, stimulating revenue growth, and maintaining operational excellence.

    Rendo expressed her enthusiasm for developing a top-tier convenience business. Wyatt indicated his confidence in her ability, stating that he believes Rendo will significantly expedite the company’s progress towards achieving this objective.

    Rendo will assume her duties from the interim CEO, Jennifer Gray, starting in July.

    Questions & Answers

    Who has been appointed as the new CEO of Viva Energy’s Convenience and Mobility business?
    Teresa Rendo, a seasoned retail executive with over 25 years of experience, has been appointed the new CEO.

    What are the challenges she will face in her new role?
    Rendo is joining during a challenging period for the business, with recent sales falling by 11.4% from the previous year. She will also need to enhance customer experience, stimulate revenue growth, and maintain operational excellence.

    Who will Teresa Rendo be succeeding?
    Rendo will be assuming her responsibilities from the interim CEO, Jennifer Gray.

  • Hong Kong Retail Boom: December Sales Surge in 8th Consecutive Monthly Increase

    Hong Kong Retail Boom: December Sales Surge in 8th Consecutive Monthly Increase

    In December, retail sales in Hong Kong rose by 6.6% compared to the previous year, marking the eighth consecutive month of growth. This trend indicates a steady economic recovery in the region, according to recent government data.

    This increase amounted to a total of HK$35 billion (US$4.48 billion) in retail sales. In November, there was a similar rise in retail sales, with a 6.5% year-on-year increase.

    Retail Sales Volume

    In terms of volume, December’s retail sales saw a 5.1% increase from the previous year, showing a slight acceleration compared to the 4.4% rise witnessed in November.

    Looking forward, the value of total retail sales in 2025 is projected to rise by 1% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the volume is expected to remain at a similar level as compared to 2024.

    Consumer Sentiment and Tourism

    A government spokesperson highlighted the positive local consumption sentiment, backed by robust economic growth momentum. Coupled with the continued surge in inbound visitors, this is expected to support the retail businesses in the region.

    Tourist arrivals in December saw a significant upturn, with 4.65 million visitors, a 9.2% increase from the previous year, according to data from the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

    Mainland Chinese visitors made up the majority of these arrivals, accounting for 3.35 million. This represents an 8.2% increase year-on-year.

    Sales Across Various Retail Sectors

    In December, certain retail sectors saw remarkable growth. Sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts surged by 14.3% year-on-year, a significant jump from the 3.6% rise in November.

    However, not all sectors experienced growth. The sales of clothing, footwear, and allied products fell by 10.3% year-on-year in December, despite a 2% increase in November.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the percentage increase in retail sales in Hong Kong in December?

    In December, retail sales in Hong Kong increased by 6.6% compared to the same period in the previous year.

    What is the projected increase in the value of total retail sales in 2025?

    The value of total retail sales in 2025 is projected to increase by 1% from the previous year.

    How did the sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts perform in December?

    In December, sales of jewellery, watches, clocks, and valuable gifts surged by 14.3% year-on-year.

  • CTG Duty Free Acquires DFS: LVMH’s Strategic Luxury Retail Sale Boosts China’s Travel Market

    CTG Duty Free Acquires DFS: LVMH’s Strategic Luxury Retail Sale Boosts China’s Travel Market

    Global luxury travel retailer DFS, which is owned by LVMH and Robert Miller, DFS’ co-founder and shareholder, has revealed they are set to sell their retail business across Greater China to the China Tourism Group (CTG) Duty Free. According to the agreement, CTG Duty Free is set to acquire businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Greater China.

    Acquisition of DFS Brands

    Aside from acquiring businesses, CTG Duty Free will also obtain a variety of DFS brands and intellectual properties exclusively for usage across Greater China. The proceeds from this transaction will be received in cash. Post-transaction, DFS will maintain operations of its other luxury travel retail businesses worldwide.

    Luke Chang, executive director and president of CTG Duty Free, shared that this move is expected to broaden the service network of CTG Duty Free across the Greater Bay Area. The goal is to establish a platform for promoting China-influenced brands globally while setting up an international business mid-platform.

    Chang also emphasized CTG Duty Free’s commitment to provide superior travel retail experiences to both domestic and international tourists. This aligns with their responsibility as a central state-owned enterprise-controlled listed company to facilitate the high-quality development of the retail economy in Hong Kong and Macau.

    A Significant Step for DFS

    DFS has described the sale as a significant step for the company. Ed Brennan, chairman and CEO of DFS, stated that the company is proud of its well-established presence and operational excellence in Hong Kong and Macau. The DFS shopping experience is expected to improve and progress with the fresh skills and perspectives that CTG Duty Free will introduce.

    Michael Schriver, president of LVMH for North Asia, expressed that the move highlights LVMH’s confidence in the long-term potential of the Chinese market. The transaction is anticipated to be finalized in approximately two months.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the agreement between DFS and CTG Duty Free about?
    The agreement is about the sale of DFS’ retail business across Greater China to CTG Duty Free.

    What will CTG Duty Free acquire from DFS?
    CTG Duty Free will acquire businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Greater China as well as a series of DFS brands and intellectual properties for exclusive use in Greater China.

    What will be the impact of this transaction on DFS?
    After the transaction, DFS will continue to operate its other luxury travel retail operations worldwide. The sale is seen as an important step for DFS and is expected to enhance the shopping experience they offer with new skills and perspectives from CTG Duty Free.

  • CTG Duty Free Acquires DFS Retail Business, Expanding Luxury Travel Retail Footprint in Greater China

    CTG Duty Free Acquires DFS Retail Business, Expanding Luxury Travel Retail Footprint in Greater China

    DFS, the global luxury travel retailer owned by LVMH and co-founder Robert Miller, has announced that it will sell its retail business across Greater China to the China Tourism Group (CTG) Duty Free. The deal includes the acquisition of DFS’ businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Greater China.

    Acquisition of DFS Brands

    In addition to the business transactions, CTG Duty Free will also acquire a series of DFS brands and intellectual property rights for exclusive use within Greater China. The proceeds from this transaction will be paid in cash. Following this deal, DFS will continue its luxury travel retail operations worldwide.

    The Impact of the Deal on CTG Duty Free

    Luke Chang, executive director and president of CTG Duty Free, has expressed his belief that this move will extend CTG Duty Free’s service network across the Greater Bay Area. The aim is to construct a platform for promoting Chinese brands globally and establish an international business mid-platform. Chang added that CTG Duty Free is committed to providing superior travel retail experiences for both domestic and international tourists, and supporting the high-quality development of the retail economy in Hong Kong and Macau.

    DFS’ Statements on the Sale

    DFS views the sale as a significant move for the company. Chairman and CEO Ed Brennan stated that DFS is immensely proud of their established presence and operational excellence in Hong Kong and Macau. He expressed confidence that the DFS shopping experience will be enhanced by the new skills and perspectives that CTG Duty Free will bring to the table. Michael Schriver, president of LVMH for North Asia, said the move demonstrates LVMH’s faith in the long-term potential of the Chinese market.

    The deal is predicted to be finalized in approximately two months.

    Questions & Answers

    What businesses are included in the DFS and CTG Duty Free deal?
    DFS’ businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Greater China are included in the deal.

    What will happen to the DFS brands under the deal?
    CTG Duty Free will acquire a series of DFS brands and intellectual property rights for exclusive use in Greater China.

    What does this transaction mean for DFS?
    DFS views the sale as a crucial step for the company, expressing confidence that CTG Duty Free will bring new skills and perspectives that will enhance the DFS shopping experience.

  • Hermes Unveils Upscale Boutique in Hanoi’s Heart: A New Chapter in Luxury Retail Expansion in Southeast Asia

    Hermes Unveils Upscale Boutique in Hanoi’s Heart: A New Chapter in Luxury Retail Expansion in Southeast Asia

    Hermes, the renowned French purveyor of luxury goods, has revitalized its presence in Hanoi by relocating its boutique to a fresh, new spot on Trang Tien Street.

    Moving to a Classic Setting

    Having been in its previous location for several years, the Hermes store has now found a new home within an impressive Art Deco structure situated in the heart of Hanoi’s commercial hub. The multi-level space is set up to elegantly display the full gamut of Hermes’s 16 distinct business areas, including leather goods, fashion, and accessories.

    The interior design of the relocated store has been masterfully executed by RDAI, a renowned architecture firm based in Paris. The building’s architectural features, such as large windows and an open layout, have been utilized to their full capacity to ensure maximum natural light penetration.

    Hermes’s Growth in Southeast Asia

    Hermes first ventured into the Vietnamese market in 2008 and has been operating several additional stores, including one in Ho Chi Minh City’s Union Square. This recent boutique relocation is part of Hermes’s strategy to augment its expansion in Southeast Asia.

    In a similar vein, Hermes has recently reopened its store in Bangkok’s IconSiam mall. The newly designed, larger store space reflects the escalating demand for luxury retail in the Thai capital.

    Questions & Answers

    When did Hermes first enter the Vietnamese market?
    Hermes first made its entry into the Vietnamese market in 2008.

    What are some of the features of the new store location in Hanoi?
    The new Hanoi store, housed in an Art Deco building, boasts large windows and an open layout, designed to maximize the use of natural light. It showcases the full range of Hermes’s 16 métiers, or business areas across several floors.

    What is Hermes’s overall strategy in Southeast Asia?
    Hermes’s strategy in Southeast Asia involves expansion and growth, reflected in the relocation and redesign of its stores in high-demand areas such as Hanoi and Bangkok.

  • AS Watson Expands Empire: 1000 New Stores Set to Open Amid 10 Million Boost in Loyalty Membership

    AS Watson Expands Empire: 1000 New Stores Set to Open Amid 10 Million Boost in Loyalty Membership

    AS Watson, a health and beauty retail giant, has announced ambitious expansion plans for the coming year, with around 1,000 new stores expected to open. This move comes in response to a significant surge in customer engagement via the company’s loyalty program.

    Growing Loyalty Program

    Last year, AS Watson witnessed an addition of 10 million new members to its loyalty program, pushing the global membership count to an impressive 180 million plus. This growth can be traced back to a successful integration between the firm’s brick-and-mortar store network and online platforms.

    Investment and Expansion

    AS Watson, which currently operates over 17,000 stores across 31 markets in Asia and Europe, is set to support its new store openings with an investment of approximately US$490 million. This funding will be allocated towards the launch of new stores, making store refurbishments, implementing technology updates, and enhancing supply chain processes.

    Strong Performance

    The retailer reported a robust category performance in the past year. Sales in the health category witnessed an 8 per cent increase, led by a double-digit rise in Europe. Simultaneously, beauty sales saw a 6 per cent uptick, propelled by a double-digit surge in Asia. The combined offline and online sales also saw a double-digit growth over the year.

    Preparation for the Future

    “Markets, technologies, and expectations are changing at an unprecedented speed. As we look to the future, our goal isn’t to predict what it holds but to be prepared for it. Our strategy remains the same – maintaining our dedication towards our customers, our employees, our partners, and upholding responsible business practices,” said Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson.

    AS Watson, which was established in Hong Kong in 1841, is celebrating its landmark 185th anniversary this year.

    Questions & Answers

    How many new stores is AS Watson planning to open this year?
    AS Watson plans to open about 1,000 new stores this year.

    What contributed to the growth in AS Watson’s loyalty program?
    The growth in AS Watson’s loyalty program can be attributed to the successful integration of its physical store network and online platforms.

    What is AS Watson’s strategy for the future, according to its Group CEO, Malina Ngai?
    AS Watson’s strategy for the future, as outlined by its Group CEO Malina Ngai, is not to predict the future but to be prepared for it by maintaining commitment towards their customers, employees, partners, and upholding responsible business practices.

  • Fashion Giant Lemaire Marks Retail Expansion in Greater China with Majestic Shanghai Flagship Store Opening

    Fashion Giant Lemaire Marks Retail Expansion in Greater China with Majestic Shanghai Flagship Store Opening

    The renowned French fashion brand, Lemaire, continues to expand its retail footprint in Greater China with the inauguration of its flagship store in Shanghai, located in the historic Wukang Road area. This latest retail venture signifies the brand’s ongoing commitment to expand and solidify its presence in the Chinese market.

    Architectural Brilliance

    The impressive 4000 square feet flagship store spans three levels and is nestled within a residence dating back to the 1930s. The design of the retail space is a fine work of the Chinese architect Dong Dayou. Departing from the norm of traditional retail designs, the interiors of the store have been thoughtfully laid out to emulate a homely ambiance.

    A Spanish influence is evident on the façade of the building, while the interiors are an aesthetic blend of Chinese vernacular architectural elements and European Modernist design. The result is an intriguing fusion of styles that provides an immersive retail experience.

    Lemaire’s Expansion in Asia

    The Shanghai store is the third ‘house project’ by Lemaire, following the successful launch of similar concept stores in Seoul’s Hannam district and Tokyo’s Ebisu area.

    The brand first made its physical presence felt in China in 2024, by opening a store at Chengdu Taikoo Li. Christophe Lemaire founded the brand in 1991 and since then, it has been steadily increasing its visibility in China, via both brick-and-mortar stores and online platforms. Notably, in 2022, Lemaire launched a flagship store on the popular e-commerce platform, Tmall.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about Lemaire’s new Shanghai store?
    The store, located in a 1930s residence, is architecturally unique. The design combines Spanish influence, Chinese vernacular architecture, and European Modernist elements to provide a distinctive retail environment.

    Where else has Lemaire launched its ‘house project’ stores?
    Lemaire has previously launched ‘house project’ stores in Seoul’s Hannam district and Tokyo’s Ebisu area.

    When did Lemaire first establish its physical presence in China?
    Lemaire first entered the Chinese market physically in 2024, with a store opening at Chengdu Taikoo Li.

  • Tiffany Chen Takes the Helm at Coles 360: A New Era of Retail Media Innovation Begins

    Tiffany Chen Takes the Helm at Coles 360: A New Era of Retail Media Innovation Begins

    Tiffany Chen has recently been named General Manager for Coles 360, ushering in a fresh period for the retail media arm of Coles Group.

    Tiffany Chen’s Appointment

    The new appointment comes along with Coles 360’s transition into its next developmental phase. Michael Courtney, the Chief Customer Experience Officer at Coles, expressed his faith in Chen’s retail media expertise and its potential to guide the business’s future path. Chen’s extensive international experience and nuanced understanding of both Coles and the Australian retail media market, according to Courtney, equips her to spearhead the next phase of the enterprise and bolster the outcomes for the supplier partners of Coles 360 starting this year.

    Courtney emphasized Coles 360’s clear vision, which is to establish a gold standard for retail media performance in Australia. He voiced his confidence in Chen’s leadership skills, coupled with the existing momentum, to elevate their network to unforeseen heights.

    Chen’s Role and Past Experience

    As Coles 360 embarks on a series of enhancements, including amplified reporting and measurement, scalable performance capabilities, and the burgeoning of advertising offerings, Chen steps in. Her experience spans a decade of work with McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm. As a founding member of the company’s Retail Media Network practice, Chen has supported numerous businesses in the development and global scaling of their retail media networks.

    Chen expressed optimism in Coles 360’s position to generate new opportunities for partners and design more effective strategies to engage customers as the new year commences. She expressed her enthusiasm towards expanding upon the already robust foundations and contributing to the next chapter of retail media innovation.

    Impact on Coles Group

    Coles 360 continues to be a significant contributor to the growth of Coles Group, yielding measurable brand and performance results for supplier partners. Coles Group has also recently announced additional developments, including acquiring site leases with the approval of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

    Questions & Answers

    What is the vision for Coles 360 under Tiffany Chen’s leadership?
    The vision for Coles 360 is to set the benchmark for retail media performance in Australia. Chen’s international experience and understanding of Coles and the Australian retail media market are expected to guide the business’s future direction.

    What improvements does Coles 360 plan to undertake?
    Coles 360 plans on a series of enhancements, which include amplified reporting and measurement, scalable performance capabilities, and the development of advertising offerings.

    What role did Tiffany Chen play at McKinsey & Company before joining Coles 360?
    Before joining Coles 360, Chen was a founding member of McKinsey & Company’s Retail Media Network practice, where she supported businesses in building and scaling their retail media networks globally.

  • Costco Australia Outperforms: Profits Soar by 40% Taking Top Spot Over Aldi

    Costco Australia Outperforms: Profits Soar by 40% Taking Top Spot Over Aldi

    Costco, the United States-based wholesale giant, continues to make waves in the Australian market. The company has seen a significant year-on-year profit increase of 39.4%.

    The financial report for the fiscal year ending on August 31, 2025, reveals an impressive annual income of $10.8 billion for the company. With a global footprint of 923 outlets, Costco currently provides employment to nearly 13,000 individuals.

    Australian Operations Showing Strength

    The Australian segment of Costco, which also oversees operations in Taiwan, has reported a profit increase from $279 million in 2024 to $389.1 million. This demonstrates the continuing growth and profitability of the company in the region.

    Costco has established 15 warehouses across Australia since launching its first location in Docklands, Melbourne, in 2009. The company’s expansion plans include the opening of another site in Victoria and a new location in Western Australia by 2027.

    Outperforming Competition

    Costco’s after-tax profits now surpass those of Aldi, which is currently the third-largest supermarket in terms of market share in Australia. This achievement indicates Costco’s aggressive growth strategy and successful performance in the competitive Australian market.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the recent growth rate of Costco in the Australian market?
    Costco has seen a significant year-on-year profit increase of 39.4% in the Australian market.

    How many Costco warehouses are there in Australia?
    As of now, Costco has established 15 warehouses across Australia.

    How does Costco’s after-tax profit compare with that of Aldi in Australia?
    Costco’s after-tax profits now surpass those of Aldi, which is the third-largest supermarket in the country in terms of market share. This indicates Costco’s strong performance in the competitive Australian market.

  • New Zealand Retail Giants Acecco, Miniso and Yoyoso Plunge into Liquidation, Racking Up Over $6 Million Debt

    New Zealand Retail Giants Acecco, Miniso and Yoyoso Plunge into Liquidation, Racking Up Over $6 Million Debt

    A trio of Asian supermarkets and retail stores operating in New Zealand – Acecco, Miniso, and Yoyoso – have recently entered into liquidation. The operating company, ANCZ Limited, owes over $6 million (US$3.5 million).

    Details of the Liquidation

    On December 17, ANCZ Limited, previously known as Yoyoso NZ Limited, found itself in receivership and liquidation, according to an announcement in the New Zealand Gazette. Additionally, 23 companies related to ANCZ Limited were placed into liquidation by the main company’s receivers on December 22.

    The conglomerate of companies is headed by Auckland-based director Lin Liu, and includes entities managing the Acecco, Miniso, and Yoyoso outlets, primarily in Auckland.

    About the Companies

    Yoyoso deals in Korean-style fast fashion and home and lifestyle products. Acecco is known for Asian groceries and culinary items, while Miniso specializes in lifestyle products.

    Several official insolvency practitioners from McDonald Vague have been appointed as liquidators of the companies.

    Debt Breakdown

    According to a report from McDonald Vague, the companies’ total debt comprises $2.9 million owed to China Construction Bank, at least $2.1 million to unsecured creditors, and $940,000 to the Inland Revenue Department.

    It is estimated that the company also owes $217,000 to former employees in the form of wages, holiday pay, and redundancy pay. The report goes on to predict that unsecured creditors may receive nil returns on their investments.

    Store Status

    Of the retail establishments managed by ANCZ and its subsidiaries, only eight were still operational at the time of liquidation.

    Due to insufficient trading revenue, the liquidators have terminated the Accecco supermarket in Northcote, but the Mt Albert location continues to trade. The Yoyoso and Miniso stores remain open with the aim of depleting their stock levels.

    Most locations are expected to shut down by the end of this month.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the total debt of ANCZ Limited?
    ANCZ Limited owes more than $6 million (US$3.5 million) in total.

    What are the individual debts of the company?
    The debts break down to $2.9 million owed to China Construction Bank, at least $2.1 million to unsecured creditors, $940,000 to the Inland Revenue Department, and $217,000 to former employees.

    What will happen to the stores under ANCZ Limited?
    Due to the liquidation process, it is expected that most of the store locations will be closed by the end of the month.