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Tag: Store

  • agnès b. brings art to Hong Kong

    agnès b. brings art to Hong Kong

    agnès b. Galerie Boutique has always brought beautiful and artistic works to Hong Kong. In January, agnès b. Galerie Boutique was pleased to welcome renowned, published Belgian cartoonist turned artist, François Olislaeger, who has participated in exhibitions at the Contemporary Art biennal in Le Havre in France, at the Cité de l’Architecture and at the Gaité Lyrique.

    In Hong Kong for the first time, François exhibits his Une Fleur Par Jour (A flower a day) project inspired by his obsession with heavenly flowers.

    In 2016, François Olislaeger turned himself into a florist crafting an incredible herbarium of Cacti, Bougainvillea, Lysis, Daisies and Tulips with the utmost care and attention to detail. It is here that he honed in on his craft using gentle, pastel watercolours to depict “simply” feeling the power of flowers and paint.

    Through each flower’s lifecycle François focused on the emerging blossoms, changes of colour palettes, the variation of gestures and movement from each unique bloom, he then reinterpreted it through soft watercolours onto canvases with a sense of artistic freedom and playfulness.

    François Olislaeger’s flowers don’t have the precision of botanic boards – it is not his vocation. They don’t have the radicalness of those of Ellsworth Kelly yet. The creativity is somewhere else, in the context, in the setting, some details more or less noticeable – a colour, an incongruous presence, and petals hanging. François Olislaeger’s flowers are innocent. For the moment, they talk mainly about love – of art, of life, of a father for his young daughter Lila – and about the transformation of a very talented cartoonist becoming a painter.

    agnès b. Galerie Boutique is showcasing more than 80 pieces of François’s collection in this exhibition, some of the artworks were previously exhibited in agnès b. Galerie du jour in Paris, however for the majority of his collection – this is their first showcase and the exhibition is now open to public until 30 June 2019.

    agnès b. Galerie boutique was delighted to welcome François Olislaeger to the vernissage of his exhibition at the agnès b. Galerie Boutique on the night of 31 January 2019.

    Media and KOL friends were treated to a personal recollection of what inspired him to create his artwork as well as witness François live paint the Lily and two other artworks exclusively for the Hong Kong exhibition. agnes b. Galerie Boutique also designed 7 styles of temporary tattoo stickers that guests were about to take home a memory of his art.

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  • Pop Mart launches jewellery concept store

    Pop Mart launches jewellery concept store

    Pop Mart, the renowned creator of the globally popular “blind box” toys featuring the unique and charming Labubu character, unveiled its debut jewellery store in Shanghai last Friday.

    The new concept store, known as Popop, offers a variety of accessories embellished with Pop Mart’s most popular characters, which include Labubu, Molly, and Skullpanda.

    Despite the ongoing property downturn and sluggish economic growth, Chinese consumer expenditure has remained somewhat muted. However, the demand for Pop Mart’s delightful yet economical toys continues to thrive both domestically and internationally, which has contributed to an over 200% rise in its share value so far this year.

    Zhang Zhanming, a 34-year-old investor who owns Pop Mart shares valued at 100 million yuan (US$13.92 million), made the journey from his home in Chongqing, a city in southwestern China, to witness the store’s launch. He wanted to evaluate the new storefront and consider whether to expand his investment in the company.

    Zhang expressed his belief that Pop Mart’s pricing strategy and target audience are a perfect match. He also expressed confidence in Pop Mart’s potential to evolve into China’s counterpart of Disney. He also predicted that the company, currently valued at US$45.65 billion, could potentially double its market capitalization.

    Pop Mart’s characters, along with a selection of Disney characters and others from the realms of anime, comics, and popular video games, are seen as exemplifying “emotional consumption”. This concept involves young consumers purchasing affordable luxury items that bring happiness into their lives.

    Fang Ke, a 35-year-old woman who will be celebrating her birthday this month, decided to indulge herself by purchasing a 699 yuan Labubu bracelet at the launch. She has been a long-time fan of Pop Mart, citing its visually appealing, brightly coloured products that also deliver a visual impact, a sentiment echoed by her daughter.

    At Popop, pricing begins at around 350 yuan for charms or a simple silver ring. Prices can climb up to 2699 yuan for necklaces decorated with metallic representations of the characters, with the majority of items priced under 1000 yuan.

    In a typical Pop Mart store, the famous “blind box” toys generally retail for a starting price of 69 yuan. However, consumers have demonstrated a willingness to spend more on limited-edition items.

    Earlier in the week, a human-sized Labubu figurine sold for a record-breaking 1.08 million yuan at a Beijing auction house, signifying the toy’s transition from a fad to a collector’s item.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the name of Pop Mart’s new jewellery store?
    The jewellery store is named Popop.

    Who is Zhang Zhanming?
    Zhang Zhanming is an investor who owns Pop Mart shares valued at 100 million yuan.

    What is the concept of “emotional consumption”?
    Emotional consumption refers to the trend of young consumers purchasing affordable luxury items that bring happiness into their lives, such as Pop Mart’s toys and accessories.

  • Amazon Australia launches B2B store it says will help businesses cut costs

    Amazon Australia launches B2B store it says will help businesses cut costs

    Amazon Business, a new platform designed to streamline operations and decrease expenses for organizations of various sizes, has been introduced by Amazon Australia. The platform will feature focused sections for kitchen and pantry goods, cleaning and sanitation products, alongside stationary, IT commodities, and maintenance solutions.

    Addressing Business Needs

    Amazon Business aims to cater to the specific needs of business buyers, offering them tailored features for convenience. These include exclusive business pricing and volume discounts on eligible items. The platform also provides options for single or multi-user business accounts, Business Prime, and dedicated customer service.

    The introduction of this platform comes at a critical time when inflating expenses have been impacting small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Australia. Research reveals that 92% of these SMBs have experienced a rise in operational costs over the past three years. Consequently, 83% of them have been compelled to transfer these expenses to their customers.

    Furthermore, the same research unveiled that over 80% of Australian SMBs have had to increase their prices by an average of 13% due to the escalating cost pressures.

    Gearing Up for Expansion

    Lena Zak, Country Manager of Amazon Business Australia, expressed excitement about the new platform. Zak emphasized the benefits of Amazon Business, stating that this development would be highly advantageous for the numerous SMBs operating across Australia. Zak further highlighted that Amazon Australia has substantially invested in enhancing its operations network to facilitate a smooth, speedy, and reliable shopping experience for its customers.

    With this latest launch, Australia becomes the eleventh country to offer Amazon Business, joining the ranks of countries like the U.S., U.K., Germany, Japan, among others. Since its debut in 2015 in the U.S., Amazon Business has expanded its customer base to over 8 million worldwide. The platform reportedly generates approximately $35 billion in annual gross sales.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Amazon Business?
    Amazon Business is a platform designed to simplify operations and reduce costs for organizations. It provides business-only pricing, quantity discounts, and options for single or multi-user business accounts, among other features.

    What does the launch of Amazon Business imply for Australian SMBs?
    The launch comes at a time when rising operational costs have been impacting Australian SMBs. It aims to offer them a streamlined, cost-effective way of procuring necessary items, thereby helping them manage their expenses.

    How has Amazon Business performed since its inception?
    Since its launch in the U.S. in 2015, Amazon Business has grown to more than 8 million customers globally. The platform reportedly generates approximately $35 billion in annualized gross sales.

  • Hermes reopens expanded Macau store with playful, nature-inspired design

    Hermes reopens expanded Macau store with playful, nature-inspired design

    Hermes, the renowned French luxury brand, has recently re-opened its expanded store in Macau. The newly renovated space is a unique blend of natural materials and symmetrical design elements, subtly incorporating references to traditional games in a nod to the city’s playful spirit.

    The store, which initially opened its doors in 2008, now proudly displays all 16 of the brand’s métiers within its redesigned interior. The renovation was orchestrated by RDAI, a leading Parisian architecture firm.

    New Design Elements

    The re-envisioned space introduces a new colour palette, a soothing blend of greens that transition from cool to warm hues. The store’s interior is adorned with jade-coloured ceramic bricks that are cleverly arranged to resemble mahjong tiles, adding a unique touch of local culture to the aesthetic. This design is further enhanced by large windows framed with sliding triangular panels.

    The interior is marked by earthy tones and the use of luxurious materials, creating a welcoming environment for its visitors. The store’s signature Faubourg mosaic serves as a striking centrepiece, anchoring the women’s silk and home collections. The terrazzo flooring, embedded with fragments of green, amber, and ochre, seamlessly connects the men’s silk, fashion jewellery, and beauty and fragrance departments.

    Contrasting Themes

    The watches and jewellery salon feature a rich lacquered green wood finish, forming a contrast with the darker cherrywood used in the sections housing equestrian and leather goods. These sections are framed by diamond-patterned panels reflecting influences from the traditional game of backgammon.

    The rear portion of the store is dedicated to women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and footwear collections. These are tastefully presented in zones delineated by shaded carpets and intricate timber detailing. A private salon and fitting rooms complete the store’s new layout.

    Aesthetic Touches

    The revamped space is further enhanced by artworks from the Émile Hermes collection and the Hermes Collection of Contemporary Photographs. These pieces, featuring botanical prints, equestrian imagery, and Douglas Lance Gibson’s Esi Ni Daimani-inspired by playing cards, add layers of visual depth to the store. The overall design is tied together with elements like the ex-libris motif, Grecque lighting, and game-inspired aesthetics.

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermes store in Macau initially opened?
    The Hermes store in Macau was initially opened in 2008.

    What are the new design elements introduced in the renovated store?
    The renovated store introduces a green-toned colour palette, jade-coloured ceramic bricks arranged like mahjong tiles, large windows with sliding triangular panels, and a signature Faubourg mosaic among other features.

    What collections are presented in the renovated store?
    The renovated store presents all 16 of Hermes’ métiers, including women’s and men’s silk, home collections, fashion jewellery, beauty and fragrance departments, ready-to-wear and footwear collections, and equestrian and leather goods.

  • Peggy Hartanto debuts first standalone store, in Jakarta

    Peggy Hartanto debuts first standalone store, in Jakarta

    The fashion brand Peggy Hartanto has achieved a significant landmark in its retail journey with the inauguration of its first independent store in Plaza Senayan, Jakarta.

    Reflecting the Brand’s Aesthetic

    The store’s design draws on the brand’s aesthetic, harmoniously blending dark brown and powder blue hues to craft a warm, grounded ambiance. The minimalist nature of the space is characterised by the balance between clean, structural lines and delicate, organic forms. The inclusion of clay walls adds an earthy, tactile aspect, underscoring the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and materiality.

    More Than a Retail Space

    Peggy Hartanto, the brand’s creative director, shared her perspective on the design of their premier standalone store. She expressed the desire to offer more than just a shopping space. Their vision was to establish a habitat that encapsulates the brand’s language and philosophy, utilising elements of minimalism, materiality, and colour. The aim was to create an environment that is immersive, calm, and focused, devoid of the commonly overwhelming functions and distractions found in retail architecture.

    Peggy Hartanto was established in 2012 by sisters Peggy, Petty, and Lydia Hartanto. The Jakarta-based label has gained a reputation for its contemporary womenswear, characterised by bold silhouettes, meticulous construction, and a forward-thinking design philosophy. The brand’s garments strive to empower today’s women by embodying both femininity and strength.

    Acknowledged Internationally

    Peggy Hartanto has received international acclaim, which includes being named on Forbes Asia’s ’30 Under 30 – The Arts’ list in 2016 and being chosen as a finalist for the International Woolmark Prize Asia in 2017.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the design philosophy behind Peggy Hartanto’s first standalone store?
    The store reflects the brand’s language and philosophy, featuring a minimalist design that balances clean, structural lines with soft, organic shapes. The colour palette and tactile elements like clay walls underline the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and materiality.

    What characterises the clothing offered by Peggy Hartanto?
    Peggy Hartanto’s clothing is defined by bold silhouettes, precise construction, and a progressive design ethos. The brand’s pieces aim to empower modern women by embracing both femininity and strength.

    What are some of the recognitions received by the fashion label Peggy Hartanto?
    Peggy Hartanto has been internationally recognised, including being listed in Forbes Asia’s ’30 Under 30 – The Arts’ in 2016 and selected as a finalist in the International Woolmark Prize Asia in 2017.

  • CJ Group opens its first Tous les Jours store in Malaysia

    CJ Group opens its first Tous les Jours store in Malaysia

    CJ Foodville Corp, the restaurant division of the CJ Group, has launched its inaugural Tous les Jours bakery location in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    Expansion Plans

    This expansion is an integral part of the corporation’s global strategy, with another location set to be unveiled in Kuala Lumpur later this month.

    Master Franchise Agreement

    CJ Foodville has entered a master franchise deal with Stream Empire Holding, a local Malaysian retailer. This agreement provides the franchisee with the right to establish, manage, and grant sub-franchise rights to other parties.

    Global Presence

    Tous les Jours has approximately 560 outlets in nine countries, including the United States, Canada, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The company is also set to broaden its reach across the Southeast Asian market within the year.

    Moreover, the company operates a bakery factory in Indonesia and plans to develop another one in Georgia, United States, scheduled to open by the end of the year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the master franchise agreement between CJ Foodville and Stream Empire Holding?

    This agreement allows the local Malaysian retailer, Stream Empire Holding, to open, manage, and grant sub-franchise rights to other parties, aiding in the expansion of Tous les Jours across Malaysia.

    How many countries does Tous les Jours currently operate in?

    Tous les Jours currently operates in nine countries, running approximately 560 outlets.

    What are CJ Foodville’s expansion plans for Tous les Jours in the Southeast Asian Market?

    CJ Foodville plans to broaden the reach of Tous les Jours across the Southeast Asian market within the current year.

  • Uniqlo Launches Its First Touchpoint Store in Singapore, Elevating Retail Experience

    Uniqlo Launches Its First Touchpoint Store in Singapore, Elevating Retail Experience

    Uniqlo will unveil its very first touchpoint store at Velocity @ Novena Square in Singapore. This innovative space is only 10% the size of a typical Uniqlo outlet, strategically designed to cater to omnichannel shoppers seeking a seamless online-to-offline experience.

    Customers can easily browse and buy via the Uniqlo app or website, opting for Click & Collect to enjoy same-day delivery without any fees or minimum spend—talk about convenience!

    This smaller store format not only enables Uniqlo to broaden its footprint but also ensures an impressive range of products and services remain accessible. Cecilia Tan, the e-commerce director at Uniqlo, noted that nearly 50% of their customers take advantage of the Click & Collect service for its appeal. She emphasized, “The Velocity store is one way that we are combining the efficiency of digital with the accessibility of physical retail.”

    In a nod to sustainability, Uniqlo has teamed up with Cycle & Carriage Singapore to deliver Click & Collect orders using an all-electric vehicle fleet, minimizing its environmental impact. The new store is located at 238 Thomson Road, #01-01 to 04, Singapore 307683, and will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Don’t miss the special opening festivities running from June 13 to June 22—a perfect reason to check it out!

    Questions & Answers

    What is the size of Uniqlo’s new touchpoint store compared to traditional outlets?
    The new touchpoint store is just 10% the size of a typical Uniqlo outlet.

    When will the new store open for customers?
    The store will welcome customers starting June 13, and it will remain open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

    How is Uniqlo ensuring sustainability with this initiative?
    Uniqlo has partnered with Cycle & Carriage Singapore to deliver Click & Collect orders using an all-electric vehicle fleet, thereby reducing their environmental impact.

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  • CJ Olive Young Launches First Korean Snacks Store in Vibrant Busan

    CJ Olive Young Launches First Korean Snacks Store in Vibrant Busan

    Despite the challenging market conditions brought on by rising inflation and supply chain issues, retail giant Walmart continues to show stellar financial performance. In its latest quarterly report, the company announced a surprising 8% increase in revenue, amounting to $152.8 billion. This impressive result showcases Walmart’s ability to adapt in a shifting economic landscape.

    Online Sales Surge Amidst Inflation

    As inflation tightens consumers’ budgets, Walmart has successfully harnessed the power of online shopping. E-commerce sales skyrocketed by 30% in the last quarter alone, indicating that shoppers are increasingly turning to digital platforms for their needs. This uptick in online sales has positioned Walmart as a formidable contender against other retailers, particularly in the realm of fast delivery options and convenience.

    International Markets Fuel Growth

    Walmart’s international division also played a pivotal role in driving growth. With a notable increase of more than 10% in international revenue, the retailer is thriving in markets like Mexico and Canada. Walmart’s strategic focus on local sourcing and personalized services has resonated well with consumers overseas.

    Future Initiatives and Innovations

    Looking ahead, Walmart is keen on continuing its investment in technology, targeting a seamless shopping experience for both physical and online consumers. The company is enhancing its app features and expanding its fulfillment centers to better meet customer demand. Additionally, Walmart aims to introduce new product lines that cater to eco-conscious shoppers.

    In a market where survival often feels like a game of chess, Walmart seems to have the winning strategy. Who knew saving on toilet paper and chips could be such an economic powerhouse?

    Questions & Answers

    What were Walmart’s revenue figures for the last quarter?
    Walmart reported revenues of $152.8 billion, reflecting an 8% increase despite economic challenges.

    How much did e-commerce sales rise in the latest quarter?
    E-commerce sales surged by 30%, demonstrating a growing trend of customers shopping online.

    Which international markets are contributing to Walmart’s growth?
    Walmart’s international division saw more than a 10% increase in revenue, with Mexico and Canada being significant contributors.

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  • Big C expands in Hong Kong with Tsim Sha Tsui flagship store

    Big C expands in Hong Kong with Tsim Sha Tsui flagship store

    Thai-based supermarket chain, Big C, is expanding its footprint within Hong Kong through the opening of a new flagship store situated in the bustling district of Tsim Sha Tsui.

    Expanding in Hong Kong

    Marking its entrance into the Hong Kong marketplace in 2023, Big C brought with it a diverse range of Thai products targeted at local consumers. The latest store represents an evolution of Big C’s retail approach, leveraging an immersive retail format reflective of a “Five-Sense” concept. This concept incorporates the elements of hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch, creating a unique shopping experience.

    Immersive Retail Experience

    A unique, aromatic blend of frangipani wafts through the entrance of the store, a tribute to the Thai heritage of the brand. This scent has been carefully crafted by Thai wellness brand Bhawa, using the finest natural essential oils. A signature Tuk-Tuk, a common mode of transportation in Thailand, is prominently displayed at the storefront, along with large LED screens showcasing product videos, immersing shoppers in a sensory experience upon their arrival.

    Upon entering the store, shoppers are greeted by a spacious layout filled with interactive displays along with tasting and demonstration areas. These zones are specifically designed to highlight Big C’s “Ready to Eat” line of products, freshly prepared in local kitchens on a daily basis.

    A Multi-sensory Environment

    Beyond visual and tactile elements, the store pays tribute to its Thai roots through the auditory sense as well. Thai pop music is played throughout the store, creating a brand recall for regular customers. Additionally, it hosts a range of in-store events such as aromatherapy workshops, cooking demonstrations, and Thai massage sessions, further enhancing the shopping experience.

    With its roots tracing back to 1993 in Bangkok, Big C now operates in several countries including Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

    Questions & Answers

    When did Big C enter the Hong Kong market?
    Big C entered the Hong Kong market in 2023.

    What is unique about the new Big C flagship store in Hong Kong?
    The new Big C flagship store in Hong Kong is designed around a “Five-Sense” concept, creating a unique sensory shopping experience for consumers.

    What range of activities does the store offer to enhance the shopping experience?
    The store offers a range of activities including aromatherapy workshops, cooking demonstrations, and Thai massage sessions, to further enrich the shopping experience.

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  • Bacha Coffee Launches First Flagship Store in Hong Kong, Promising a Unique Coffee Experience

    Bacha Coffee Launches First Flagship Store in Hong Kong, Promising a Unique Coffee Experience

    Bacha Coffee has unveiled its first full-concept flagship store in the bustling Harbour City of Hong Kong, a pivotal move in the brand’s ambitious global expansion plan. Spanning an impressive 2,500 square feet, this vibrant new location features a Coffee Boutique, a 50-seat Coffee Room, and a takeaway counter that collectively showcase an astounding selection of over 200 varieties of 100% Arabica coffee sourced from 35 countries.

    This outlet is not just about coffee; it’s Bacha Coffee’s first complete dining experience in the city. The Coffee Room entices visitors with an all-day menu brimming with delectable pastries and artisan viennoiseries, all thoughtfully paired with their aromatic coffee offerings. The design pays homage to the brand’s origins in Marrakech, creating an enchanting atmosphere that transports patrons to its Moroccan roots.

    Here, traditional brewing techniques reign supreme, with skilled “coffee masters” meticulously preparing each cup in elegant golden gooseneck pots, a sight that is both captivating and delicious.

    The Hong Kong launch underscores Bacha Coffee’s commitment to global growth, following a successful revival in Marrakech that has seen the brand expand to 32 stores across 12 cities such as Paris, Dubai, Doha, Seoul, Singapore, and Taipei. The recent inauguration of its flagship store on the iconic Champs-Élysées in April further exemplifies its relentless pursuit of worldwide recognition.

    And who knows, maybe one day we’ll be sipping Bacha Coffee in outer space—after all, why should astronauts miss out on a good brew?

    Questions & Answers

    What is Bacha Coffee’s latest store concept in Hong Kong?
    The new full-concept flagship store includes a Coffee Boutique, a Coffee Room with all-day menu options, and a takeaway counter, set within a lavish 2,500-square-foot space.

    How many coffee varieties does the flagship store offer?
    The flagship store offers an impressive selection of over 200 varieties of 100% Arabica coffee from 35 different countries.

    What inspired the design of the Coffee Room at the new store?
    The Coffee Room’s design is inspired by Bacha Coffee’s original home in Marrakech, aiming to provide a unique and captivating atmosphere for customers.

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  • Levi’s Expands Brand Growth with New Flagship Store in Nagoya

    Levi’s Expands Brand Growth with New Flagship Store in Nagoya

    Levi Strauss & Co. Unveils Its Largest Store in Asia Pacific to Boost Consumer Connection in Japan

    Levi Strauss & Co., a trailblazer in denim and casual wear, has strategically expanded its footprint by opening its largest single-floor store in the Asia Pacific region—located at Nagoya ZERO GATE, Japan. This launch is a significant step in the brand’s effort to enhance customer experience and embrace local culture.

    Expanding Brand Presence with Innovative Store Features

    Spanning an impressive 5,380 square feet, the new flagship store in Nagoya is not only about size but also about offering unique experiences. It hosts the first Levi’s Tailor Shop in the Tokai region, where customers can enjoy personalized services such as embroidery, fabric paneling, and repairs—tailored to their tastes and preferences.

    Adding to the consumer experience, the store features an upscale lounge area, integrates digital elements for a seamless shopping experience, and proudly stands as the brand’s inaugural data shop in the city. This launch aligns well with Levi’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategy which prioritizes immersive brand experiences to foster deeper customer relationships.

    A Strategic Choice for Consumer Engagement

    Nuholt Huisamen, Managing Director & Senior Vice President, APAC at Levi Strauss & Co., explained that choosing Nagoya — one of Japan’s largest cities known for its rich history and vibrant culture — was a strategic decision. This location aligns perfectly with Levi’s goal to always be at the cultural epicenter, thus reinforcing the brand’s presence in significant urban landscapes.

    “The store is strategically positioned to show the fullest expression of our assortment, enabling consumers in Nagoya to fully immerize themselves in the Levi’s lifestyle brand. This is a direct reflection of our ambition,” Huisamen added.

    Expectations for Market Reception

    Following robust performances in major Japanese cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, expectations are high for the Nagoya store. Huisamen expressed optimism about the new store’s potential, given the Japanese consumers’ profound appreciation for heritage denim and the Levi’s brand overall. This indicates a promising future for Levi’s in strengthening its market position through direct engagements and tailored retail experiences.

    Potential Impact on the Retail Sector

    This expansion not only solidifies Levi’s commitment to enhancing consumer interactions through a DTC strategy but also sets a benchmark in the retail sector for combining traditional shopping with personalized and digital experiences. The move could inspire similar strategies across the industry, potentially reshaping retail interactions and consumer expectations in the region.

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  • Lawson reveals ambitious Southeast Asian expansion plan

    Lawson reveals ambitious Southeast Asian expansion plan

    Japanese convenience store chain Lawson plans to raise its store count in overseas markets and accelerate growth in Southeast Asia over the coming years.

    The chain is targeting 14,000 overseas stores over the next six years. Its international network currently includes 7400 locations in China, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia and the US state of Hawaii.

    The retailer also plans to boost growth in Southeast Asia by entering franchise agreements with local retail partners and opening directly managed stores. However, it did not reveal the new markets under evaluation.

    In addition, the company will look into the possibility of expanding to additional countries.

    Founded in 1975, Lawson has about 14,600 domestic stores. As of the end of last year, Japan had approximately 55,736 convenience stores, according to local statistics.

    While the top three convenience chains – Lawson, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart – are projected to achieve a net increase of up to about 400 stores this fiscal year, the industry faces fierce competition from drugstores and online retailers.

    Last August, Lawson shifted to a joint management system involving trading house Mitsubishi Corp and telecommunications operator KDDI to develop products that fit customer tastes and introduce tech-driven services.

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  • Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair celebrates 40th edition

    Hong Kong Gifts and Premium Fair celebrates 40th edition

    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council is set to unveil the seven LifeStyle Trade Events, covering gifts, houseware, fashion, printing and packaging, and licensing.

    These events will take place from April 27 to 30 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. With the latest products and trends on display under one roof, the events will feature a curated selection of lifestyle products and services from around the world, maximising and diversifying buyers’ sourcing in one go.

    Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair

    Of the seven events, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair is the longest-running and will celebrate its 40th edition this year. The highly acclaimed Hall of Fine Designs will return as a convergence of reputed brands. Key brands include Monnaie de Paris of France, the government-owned institution responsible for producing France’s coins, and Camel from Hong Kong, which creates vacuum flasks and has gained popularity among young creatives in recent years.

    The Hong Kong Exporters’ Association will assemble Hong Kong companies to form a pavilion, showcasing the design skills and branding excellence of Hong Kong’s product designers. Winning works from the Hong Kong Smart Design Awards will be on display to highlight the creativity and flair of Hong Kong brands to global industry players.

    Home InStyle

    Home InStyle will continue to foster connections and inspire the design and lifestyle community. The acclaimed Cultural and Creative Corner is set to be upgraded to a Cultural and Creative Avenue, engaging international design influencers and designer brands infused with unique design concepts and cultural heritage. Pantone, the trendsetter in colour, will again join us as our colour partner to showcase the 2025 Fall/Winter and 2026 Spring/Summer colour trends.

    The Industrial Designers Society of Hong Kong will once again present its renowned Remix project, aimed at fostering business collaboration between design professionals and premium brands. The Czech brands Artiseme and Cockerel and Pigmentarium will participate in the Cultural and Creative Avenue for the first time, showcasing distinctive Bohemian crystal, handmade glassware, room fragrances, and incense. Meanwhile, Aomori and Tottori Prefectures from Japan will highlight their regional culture and craft products, including Inshu Washi, ceramics, rattan works, and folk toys.

    In response to the rapid growth of the silver economy, Home InStyle will debut the Gerontech Living Pavilion, featuring a range of innovative products and design concepts from over 10 local companies. In addition, the pavilion will host seminar sessions, along with interactive elements and guided tours, offering visitors a unique and engaging experience.

    Seminars to discuss emerging trends

    During the fair period, a series of seminars and forums will be conducted, featuring industry representatives who will share valuable insights on key trends and future prospects within the industry, including creative thinking, the silver economy, and sustainability. These events are designed to enhance communication between exhibitors and buyers, while also equipping participants with the latest market information. By serving as a one-stop sourcing platform, the events will offer promising business opportunities and cater to the needs of buyers for a diverse selection of lifestyle products and services.

    Digital platform creates an efficient exhibition experience

    Under the Exhibition+ model, the fairs integrate offline and online elements. Buyers can continue searching for products and services on the hktdc.com Sourcing platform and network through the Click2Match smart business-matching platform. During the physical fair, buyers can use the Scan2Match function of the HKTDC Marketplace App to scan exhibitors’ exclusive QR codes, bookmark favourite suppliers, browse product information and continue discussions with exhibitors online during or after the show.

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  • Cristiano Ronaldo to launch CR7 Life flagship store in Hong Kong

    Cristiano Ronaldo to launch CR7 Life flagship store in Hong Kong

    Football icon Cristiano Ronaldo is expanding his lifestyle brand globally with the debut of the CR7 Life flagship in Hong Kong.

    Located on the seventh floor of Times Square Mall, the outlet will showcase a curated range of products, including apparel, accessories, shoes, eyewear, fragrances, and homeware. Many of the featured items have been handpicked and signed by Ronaldo.

    A dedicated CR7 Life Museum will also open alongside the store, celebrating the football star’s career, achievements, and influence on global sports culture.

    The flagship will also feature a Portuguese cafe serving traditional Portuguese delicacies such as Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts), premium coffee, and artisanal pastries.

    “This is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a full-sensory, cultural encounter that brings together sport, style, and travel – positioning Hong Kong as Asia’s new home of football lifestyle,” said the company.

  • Watsons opens 8000th Asia store in Manila

    Watsons opens 8000th Asia store in Manila

    Health and personal care retailer Watsons has opened its 8000th Asia store at SM Mall of Asia in Manila.

    “The Philippines has been selected for this momentous occasion because it’s one of the fastest-rising economies in Asia and a strategic market for AS Watson,” said Malina Ngai, CEO of AS Watson Group.

    “This vibrant and highly potential market has a young demographic that increasingly focuses on health and beauty, aligning perfectly with Watsons’ expertise.”

    The new store forms part of the company’s commitment to enhancing its offline plus online customer experience.

    Watsons currently operates 8000 stores and more than 1500 pharmacies in Asia, Europe, and Middle East.

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