LUXASIA’s Post

As modest wear continues to grow in popularity across the region, this year’s ZALORAYA features a diverse range of pieces from 19 renowned brands, including ZALORA Group’s private labels, and established and emerging local designers from Malaysia and Indonesia.    Talking about the campaign, Mia.Limei Lim, category manager for Modest Wear at ZALORA, said, “Being Asia’s fashion expert, ZALORA recognised the immense opportunity early on in catering to the diverse needs and tastes of our Muslim consumers. Since launching our modest wear category in 2014, we have been seeing positive growth.” “From our early foray into modest wear to our ongoing collaborations with local designers, we remain committed to growing this vibrant market segment and leading the way in shaping the industry in this region", she added. #campaign #fashion #southeastasia -[Conferences] Our "What's NEXT" conference returns to the Philippines, this time for a two-day event from March 19-20! Learn more about the future of marketing; from CX, digital advertising, e-commerce, influencer marketing; from our diverse speaker lineup representing brands like DITO, foodpanda PH, FWD Insurance, GoTyme Bank, Home Credit PH, Primer Group, Rebisco, and UnionBank Digital. Register HERE: https://bit.ly/47Xwd0W -[Awards] MARKETECH APAC is launching its inaugural "Marketing Technology Awards" where we recognise the groundbreaking achievements in marketing technology, uniting the brands and tech organisations within the region’s marketing community. Learn how your brand can be a part of it by checking it more details HERE: https://bit.ly/3SVtoIa -[Report] Learn how brands can strategically implement conversational commerce and leverage these platforms to craft exceptional and personalized customer experiences in this in-depth report: https://bit.ly/3SSKVCG

Chinese Beauty Market: Immense Opportunity and Challenge Requiring Strong Adaptation Chinese beauty brands are gaining ground over their foreign competitors, who have traditionally held a strong and aspirational position in this market. The reason for this shift is a more sophisticated consumer who values quality and price over mere brand recognition. Previously, consumers were less familiar with the products themselves, and their purchasing decisions were more brand-oriented. -- Immense Market: The market is expected to reach a value of $44 billion by 2027. -- E-commerce Growth: Currently accounting for 40% of the category, e-commerce is projected to reach 60% in the coming years. -- Drunk Elephant (by Shiseido) has successfully entered both online and offline channels by appealing to consumers seeking scientifically-backed products. -- "Classic" brands like Chanel and Dior dominate the premium price range, but more affordable alternatives have gained ground. -- Domestic brands control 60% of the market. -- Localization is key in this market for foreign brands to succeed. trhough: https://lnkd.in/dSjB8FEz #ChineseBeautyMarket #EcommerceGrowth #LocalizationStrategy #SkincareTrends #ConsumerBehavior

In recent years, Chinese luxury consumers have dramatically shifted their purchasing habits, especially following the impact of COVID-19. With travel restrictions, many have turned to domestic luxury shopping, prioritizing local brands and experiences over international purchases. The rise of digital platforms like WeChat, Tmall, and JD.com has led to increased demand for omnichannel shopping experiences, where brands need to deliver personalized services and experiential luxury. For instance, Louis Vuitton is enhancing its virtual shopping capabilities, allowing personalized consultations via WeChat, while Gucci is focusing on sustainability through initiatives like the Gucci Circular Hub, appealing to the growing ethical consumption trend among younger buyers. Looking ahead, several key trends will shape luxury consumption in China: 1. Sustainability: Younger consumers are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly practices, pushing brands like Hermès and Cartier to adopt sustainable materials and transparent sourcing. 2. Digital Integration: The use of live streaming and engaging digital content is expected to expand as brands seek to enhance online customer experiences. 3. Localization: With limited international travel, brands are investing in domestic retail, like Hermès in Hainan, focusing on personalized services to meet local demand. 4. Cultural Experiences: Consumers are looking for meaningful interactions, prompting brands to host exclusive events and collaborate with local artists. 5. Data-Driven Marketing: Brands are leveraging AI and data analytics for hyper-personalized marketing strategies, exemplified by Bulgari’s integrated e-commerce approach. As these trends evolve, luxury brands must innovate and adapt to stay relevant and appealing to Chinese consumers. What are your thoughts on the strategies that work best? #LuxuryRetail #ChineseMarket #ConsumerTrends #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation #PersonalizedLuxury #CulturalExperience #OmnichannelMarketing

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's most developed prestige beauty markets marked by a dynamic retail scene and dedicated consumers valued at USD 770 million last year. This year, many have seen an industry-wide slowdown in prestige beauty as consumers' spending habits shift, “Thailand is a competitive market. The Thai consumer is open to local brands, more than any other market in the region. It’s challenging,” says Regional Managing Director for Southeast Asia Alwyn C. However, it reveals some bright spots in connecting with the Thai beauty consumer. In terms of the skincare category, “Efficacy and a degree of science is important on the skincare side,” says Chief Operating Officer Satyaki Banerjee. “But I think shorter routines resonate more with the Thai consumer.” Across retail, boutique locations are seen to be a hit with consumers compared to traditional department store counters, “They are growing at around 14%, whereas department stores are seeing roughly 4% growth, says Srocha Zbinden, Country Manager of Thailand. Following the launch of LUXASIA's omni-retail concept for niche, luxury brands - escentials, Zbinden observes that "Hybrid formats are the future, because they allow the consumer to have the comfort and benefits of shopping in a department store, but with the experience of a standalone. You have the best of both worlds, it makes it more attractive, and people can use their membership benefits." Consumers prefer experiential formats which provide a comfortable space to experiment with products and are less reliant on beauty consultants or sales associates. Read more about the deep dive into Thailand's beauty market below. Thank you to Oonagh Phillips, Alex Wynne and the BW Confidential Team for this opportunity to share more with the wider community. #bwconfidential #luxasia #asiapacificomnileader #makingadifference #drivebrands #developtalents #delightconsumers #retail #ecommerce #distribution #consumer #analytics #asiapacific #brandbuilder #omnichannel #talents #beauty #luxury #thailand

Who hasn’t heard of Tira or Nykaa? Exactly. Everyone has. Well, if you think they’re big now, just wait a couple of years. India’s luxury beauty industry is currently at just 10% of its potential. You might think that’s too little. But imagine. When Fenty Beauty by Rihanna was launched in 2017—who could have predicted it would make its Indian debut just 7 years later? Contrary to Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez, which launched in 2020, was introduced in India in 2023, marking a staggering 60% faster entry into the market. Both brands are owned by huge stars, yet the pace of expansion is strikingly different. This surge happens when the market is just taking off. In stark contrast, Thailand’s beauty market is witnessing a slowdown in luxury beauty consumption, as highlighted by this insightful article from LUXASIA, likely due to its closer proximity to maturity. As the Indian luxury beauty landscape evolves, it's going to be thrilling to watch how brands shake things up and flourish in this vibrant market! #LUXASIA #BeautyIndustry #FentyBeauty #Rihanna #RareBeauty #SelenaGomez #ThailandBeautyIndustry #Luxury #IndianBeautyindustry #LuxuryBeauty #Luxe #Indianmarket #Marketing

🌟 Differences between Watsons and Sephora in APAC🌟 Choosing the right retailer to showcase your products is crucial for your brand's success. Both Watsons and Sephora offer unique opportunities, but let's explore the differences to help you make an informed decision. Market Presence: 🛍️ Watsons: With over 8,000 doors across 15 markets in APAC, Watsons has a deep penetration, making it highly accessible to a wide consumer base. 🏬 Sephora: Operating over 400 doors (with a significant presence in China), Sephora provides a premium experience tailored to affluent consumers. Singapore accounts for nearly half of the region's business. Price Point: 💰 Watsons: Known for affordability, Watsons caters to budget-conscious shoppers with accessible price points. However, it also carries higher-end brands like Dr. Wu and Olaplex, offering products up to $100. 💄 Sephora: Positioned as a higher-end retailer, Sephora offers luxury brands, but blurs lines with more affordable options like its own brand, The Ordinary, and The Inkey List. Shopping Experience: 🛍️ Watsons: Offers a bustling in-store environment with various brands and promotions. While some stores feature innovative concepts like sustainable areas and online consultations, they tend to be more crowded. 💅 Sephora: Provides a luxurious and personalized in-store experience with expert beauty advisors. Some stores merchandise by skin condition or product groups rather than brand, enhancing the shopping experience. Ultimately, your choice between Watsons and Sephora depends on your brand's positioning, target audience, and marketing objectives. However, with the lines between affordability and luxury blurring, careful consideration is essential. If you're considering entering the APAC market, it's crucial to understand the pros and cons of each retailer. DM me for a quick exploratory call on Watsons vs. Sephora and how to navigate this dynamic landscape. #Beauty #Skincare #Makeup #Watsons #Sephora #BrandPresence #APACBeauty

As clothing brands gear up for the #Raya festive season and #consumers shop for the perfect outfit, over 90% of Malaysians are looking to coordinate their looks with their family for Raya. Within this group, 14% go about the coordination by picking a fabric, brand or theme to wear, while 12% pick a 2024 trend to follow. These were the results of #eCommerce platform Shopee Malaysia’s Raya Stail Kita study of Malaysian online shopping preferences which surveyed 1,000 online shoppers in February 2024. #OnlineShopping

Shopee Discovers 93% of Malaysian Women Seek Inclusive Muslimah Fashion: Shopee’s Gaya Lagi Lit Inclusive Fashion Study revealed that a staggering 93% of respondents prioritise finding Muslimah and inclusive clothing options on the platform. This isn't just a preference – nearly all respondents (98%) expressed confidence in Shopee meeting their needs for this specific style. These findings solidify Shopee's position as the go-to destination for Muslimah fashion that caters to a wide range of styles and body types. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents identified inclusive clothing that accommodates age, size, and body type as their top priority. Additionally, 16% seek modest clothing suitable for all activities, highlighting the need for versatile pieces that fit seamlessly into their lifestyles. The remaining 10% expressed interest in sustainable materials and clothing designed for special needs, showcasing a well-rounded understanding of the evolving Muslimah fashion landscape. #ShopeeHaul #ShopeeRaiLokal #GayaLagiLit

Recently, I shared the news of my departure from Lippo after an incredible 21-year journey that began in April 2003. I won't delve into the details of how I left an established retail career in the USA to join the Lippo Group, as my initial plan of a 2 ½ year contract transformed into a love affair with Indonesia that has spanned over two decades, with no end in sight. My passion for retail started at the tender age of 16. The bulk of my career revolved around fashion retail in department stores, encompassing luxury, premium, moderate, and lower-moderate brands. As I progressed, I developed a keen interest in footwear, beauty, and what we call "center core" categories, which include beauty, handbags, jewellery, and other categories that attract the female shopper. Through my focus in these categories, I discovered the power of effective marketing, with the beauty industry being the epitome of marketing expertise. In the department store industry, new beauty launches were and continue to be crucial in creating captivating shopper experiences. During these launches, we experimented with various methods to build brand awareness and establish our stores as the go-to destination for beauty. We also developed cross-promotions for "center core" categories to maximize the impact of these major launches. Now, let's shift our focus to the current state of department stores. I've closely examined the retail industry in Indonesia, and here are my observations. The industry continues to evolve, with new brands emerging at an unprecedented pace. Many of these brands have a short lifespan and lack sustainability, yet they occupy valuable selling space in retail stores. It appears that the curation of brands by retailers is often driven by factors such as "listing fees" and margins, rather than focusing on products that align with their customer segmentation. I believe this stems from inexperienced decision-makers or a strict adherence to short-term financial targets. Consequently, department stores and other retailers are missing out on the excitement that comes with new product launches, brand debuts, and the creation of experiences that establish them as destinations for innovation and discovery. Today's retail landscape is often a sea of brands, with large installations for international or major national brands, or limited SKU presentations that fail to communicate the benefits of the products effectively. Furthermore, the majority of Beauty Advisors or SPGs lack in-depth knowledge of product benefits or rely on scripted pitches that do not cater to individual needs. I have strong opinions on how to reignite the excitement in retail, but it requires investments. Most stores are reluctant to fund these necessary changes, prioritizing short-term benefits over long-term investments for the future. I'm curious to hear your thoughts on this matter. Do you agree with my observations, or do you have a different perspective to share? 

Real-World Examples of Successful Positioning Let’s look at some brands that have mastered positioning and niching: Lush: Focused on handmade, ethically sourced, and environmentally friendly products, attracting eco-conscious consumers. Aldi: Emphasised affordability and quality, positioning itself as a top choice for cost-conscious shoppers. Burberry: Rebranded to target a younger, fashion-forward audience, regaining its status as a luxury brand. These brands show that effective positioning and niching can lead to significant market success. Embrace these strategies to unlock your brand’s potential. Do you have other examples that inspire you? #BrandPositioning #BusinessGrowth #MarketingStrategy #CustomerEngagement #NicheingForSuccess