A Shanghai store that pairs mineral specimens with crystal-shaped cakes shows how Chinese retailers are selling experience before product.

Illness stopped the Malaysian label before Spring/Summer 2024. Two years later, its founders won a Future Force Award in Shanghai and now plan around capacity.

Shanghai’s prime shopping district swaps fashion boutiques for performance flagships, a founder-led apparel startup opens four outlets, synthetic stones win couples and consumers stitch puffers.

Opening of Casa Cucinelli in a historic Shanghai residence and a gala celebrating its founder’s life, Brunello Cucinelli is bringing its Italian humanist philosophy closer to Chinese consumers while strengthening its long-term presence in the market.

French fragrance and skincare house is expanding in China with a minimalist retail space and single-ingredient fragrances, responding to consumers who are becoming more selective and experience-driven.

Bain finds luxury buyers now value self-fulfillment more than status. Hermès, Coach and Six Senses show how brands can sell connection while keeping the object rare.

Instead of adapting global products with local colorways, a Shanghai team now shapes silhouettes, fabrics and fit from scratch.

Pop Mart, Qeelin and Alo are building businesses around joy, reassurance and escape as young mainland consumers reward brands that offer more than a transaction.

As Mamonde and Filorga retreat, Fenty Beauty, Pañpuri and Serge Lutens are betting on more selective consumers.