Market Updates
China sees surge in outbound tourism for May Day holidays as international flight bookings reach record high
International flight bookings for the first day of the May Day holidays reached a record high, increasing by 20 percent compared with 2019 levels. The number of air ticket bookings for several visa-free destinations during the May Day holidays surpassed the figures recorded during the same period in 2019. Chinese tourists also appear more willing to opt for longer-distance travel during the five-day holiday period.
Retailers flocking to open up stores in Shanghai
Shanghai remains in the fast lane in terms attracting new retail shops and new exhibitions as it continues to consolidate its position as a leading shopping destination and consumption hub. A record number of 489 retailers and leisure brands made their first appearance in Shanghai in the first four months this year, of which 55 are debut stores in China, and three Asian or worldwide debut stores.
Chinese museums greet more young people as passion for traditional culture grows
During the May Day holiday this year, the total number of museum visits exceeded 50 million, the highest in history for the same period, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration. Meanwhile, an increasing number of young people in China are making museums a must-visit highlight during their city tours. People born in the 2000s were the third largest group of buying museum tickets in 2023, following those born in the 1980s and 1990s.
Fashion
FILAGolf X Versailles Beijing created social media buzz
A gigantic Sun King art wall decoration at the FILA ICONA store in Taikoo Li, Sanlitun Beijing, along with the nearby Versailles-inspired pop-up shop at the South Plaza, has sparked discussions on social media. On April 30th, the appearance of brand ambassador Yang Mi further propelled the surge in discussion heat.
L’Oréal Paris empowers “I’m Worth It” for new age
L’Oréal Paris hosted Worth It Night by the Huangpu riverfront in Shanghai on April 18. Leading female figures from diverse backgrounds and industries attended a cross-disciplinary discussion around the brand slogan “I’m Worth It” and celebrated moments of worthiness.
Louis Vuitton relaunches core values campaign with tennis icons
After 12 years, Louis Vuitton is once again launching a new chapter of its core values ad campaign with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, themed “There are Journeys that turn into Legends”.
Supreme collaborates with Nike on China-limited shoes
Supreme has teamed up with Nike to release the Supreme x Nike Air Force 1 China Limited colorway, which is available exclusively at Supreme’s Shanghai store since May 18th. This is the first time Supreme has released a regionally limited product.
Celine unveils Victoire handbag series
Celine recently launched the new Victoire series handbags from its 2024 Summer Women’s Collection. The modern design complements the brand’s signature soft leather, and the iconic Triomphe element highlights the unique personality of the collection.
Beauty
C-beauty leader Florasis sets sight on global expansion with Samaritaine
Florasis, a leading C-beauty brand, has partnered with DFS, the selective retail arm of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, to open its first outpost in Europe at Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf.
Fendi officially launches its first fragrance collection
In preparation for Fendi‘s 100th anniversary in 2025, the brand has officially launched its first-ever fragrance collection. The collection consists of seven distinct scents and will be available in selected Fendi retail stores starting from June 20th.
Rihanna shows up at Fenty Beauty alley pop-up in Shanghai
To promote the mainland China debut of Fenty Beauty, Rihanna made a whirlwind visit to Shanghai this week. She interacted with fans and local influencers, and participated in three live streams on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.
Watches & Jewelry
Pandora X Honor of Kings illustrates “Be Love” theme
On April 29th, Pandora hosted a unique ‘Hero Summit’ event, featuring the stunning appearance of the brand’s honored friend, the Hero 无畏 from Nanjing, alongside COSERs portraying iconic heroes, creating a visual feast bridging virtual and reality.
Messika names actor Gong Jun as 1st APAC brand ambassador
French luxury diamond jewelry brand Messika announced Chinese actor Gong Jun(龚俊) as its first Asia-Pacific brand ambassador.
Piaget invites Tong Yao as its China brand ambassador
To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Piaget has invited renowned actress Tong Yao(童瑶) to serve as its brand ambassador in China.
Digital
Chinese Laundry’s new 360 video campaign kicks off immersive strategy
Chinese Laundry is high-stepping into 360-degree video, making up the “In Bloom” initiative showcase the footwear in 3D so consumers can get a better sense of the shoes for a “more elevated shopping experience”.
Balenciaga created a video game for its latest music playlist
Balenciaga’s music division has incorporated a new mini-game featuring musician Bfrnd. Players can navigate their way through the brand’s iconic show sets, including the theater from its Spring 2024 collection. The game is accessible via a dedicated site, WeChat, or on a touchscreen in select Balenciaga stores.
New Openings and Launches
To Summer opens fragrant Beijing ‘bookstore’
Miu Miu’s retro glam makeover at Shanghai IFC
Aesop opened a flagship store at No. 19 WF Central in Beijing
Maison Margiela debuted its first Shandong store
Louis Vuitton’s jewelry pops up across China
Ganni opened a new store at the Hangzhou MixC Shopping Center
Peacebird opens the world’s first flagship store in Ningbo Tianyi Center Square.
Golden Goose debuts Nanjing boutique.
Birkenstock opens Shanghai pop-up store.
Chanel to expand, renovates at Shanghai Plaza 66 store.
H&M Shanghai Flagship Store Opening on Nanjing East Road.
Thom Browne has reopened its store at Wynn Palace in Macau.
ICCF Group opens landmark “Garden Store” in downtown Shanghai.
Timberland serves up boat shoe-themed café in Shanghai.
Vuori opens its first store in China in Shanghai.
Acne Studios‘ flagship store opens in Beijing.
Loro Piana launches pop-up store for 2024 Spring/Summer Resort Collection at Shanghai IFC.
Swatch Group expands Hong Kong presence.
Jaeger-LeCoultre “The Adventure Spirit” pop-up store opened at Hangzhou MixC.
Hermès renovates its Beijing SKP store.
Anteprima “Game On” pop-up store opened at Shanghai IFC.
