Thursday 8 April 2010

The Low Down On The Shanghai Luxury Conference – 8/4/10

A luxury conference held recently at the China Europe International Business School in Shanghai has raised some interesting questions about the Asian market.

According to WWD, "One of the most debated topics at the conference was whether Chinese consumers are willing to accept homegrown luxury brands.”

This article reminded us of some of the issues we’ve previously discussed in the MO Down, such as the increase in Asian companies purchasing European luxury brands and the creation of Asian, particularly Chinese, luxury brands.

It also features key points on current European brands who have invested in China early on; Ferragamo, as an example, will continue to expand in the market. Also, Hermes is cleverly looking at producing a brand in China, Shang Xia, (perhaps this is about the "if you cannot beat them, join them" philosophy). Also, existing and notable high end Chinese Brand, Shanghai-Tang is expanding their current offer by opening a cafe and launching an iPhone application.

Click here to read our earlier report on Hermes’ Shang Xia. We’ve also discussed several mergers and acquisitions in detail.

Image credit: www.shanghaitang.com

Who's behind the MO DOWN

Melinda O’Rourke is the founder and Director of MO Luxury, a dynamic, Sydney-based management firm specialising in luxury brands and services. Melinda and her associates at MO work with local and international brands across prestige retail, fashion, fine jewellery, timepieces and specialised services. Melinda is well-connected, well-read, and well-versed in the demands of the luxury market and its client base. Her advice is firmly based in objectivity and ultimately, accountability. Melinda offers constructive counsel and both strategic and creative thinking and is able to draw upon a strong network of specialised talent to compliment the MO Luxury team as needed. Melinda enjoys excellent industry relationships and is regularly quoted in the business and fashion media. Read more about MO Luxury, www.moluxury.com.au