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Thursday, November 30, 2023
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Meet The Man Behind Art of HdM Gallery
Renowed French art dealer Hadrien de Montferrand knows a thing or two about Chinese contemporary art. One may question the European man’s appreciaion of Asian culture and art but Hadrien has a familial connection to Asia — his father was formerly the French ambassador to Singapore. With a long term understanding of the Chinese language, Hadrien today works with a plethora of Chinese artists including Liu Xiaodong, Sui Jianguo or Mao Yan alongside their Western contemporaries including the likes of Gioele Amaro, Martial Raysse, Barthélémy Toguo, Manuel Mathieu, and Elias Crespin — bridging the gap between Eastern and Western perspectives.
Before we get into Hadrien’s latest project with the HdM Gallery, let’s explore the art dealer’s background. After graduating in art history at La Sorbonne in parallel with his business studies, he worked for two years for Unilever in China. In 2002, he returned to France where he was appointed head of the marketing department of the largest French auction house, Artcurial and for the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing. After five years in Paris, he was sent to China to conceptualise an auction house in Shanghai. In 2008, he became development manager of the Ullens Center of Contemporary Art, founded in 2007 by Guy Ullens and his wife.
In 2009, he opened the first HdM Gallery in Beijing, China, dedicated to works on paper, in partnership with Laurent Dassault. Olivier Hervet joined the project in 2010 and is now also a partner. HdM Gallery now specialises in all disciplines of contemporary art — painting, sculpture, video and installation. In 2018, he opened his third space, in London’s Mayfair art district and in 2022, he opened a brand new space in Paris.
Hadrien de Montferrand speaks exclusively to LUXUO on what to expect at the HdM Art Gallery booth at the upcoming ART SG 2024 alongside how he sources talented artists and advice he would give to aspiring art curators.
When did you first get interested in art, and how did it lead you into the business of being a gallerist?
On the one hand, I come from an old French family and have been surrounded by art since a young age. My grandparents collected French classical art. On the other hand, I knew I wanted to start my own company — I think I was more of an entrepreneur. When I met some artists in China and saw their skills, It became clear that I could do my dream job: start a company of my own and with art which I admire and respect.
Take our readers through the founding of HdM Gallery. What would you decribe as the gallery’s DNA?
HdM gallery was founded in 2009 in Beijing. Our first “unique angle” was works on paper by Chinese artists, and the gallery has retained its Chinese DNA. I started the gallery in China with Chinese artists, and they still represent at least 50 percent of our programme.
What differentiates HdM Gallery from other galleries?
We have a very special team. I have always considered my team as my family. We all spend more time with the team than with our own family. My team is my family and if they are not happy then I have failed. This is why most of our staff has been working in the gallery for over 10 years. I feel this is my biggest success. I also thank them for their trust.
What led you to develop a strong expertise in the contemporary Chinese art market?
I studied Chinese back in 1997. I have always been interested in art. I met artists such as Zeng Fanzi, Ding Yi and Mao Yan which led to the opening of my gallery in 2009. I also held the position of European representative of China Guardian Auctions for five years. I do not know if we are experts but I definitely have more experience than most people on this market.
China has numerous talented artists. How do you find new artists to showcase, and what do you look for when considering to feature new artist to your gallery?
We exhibit the artist I like. I am lucky because I have an amazing team. They make a first selection and we discuss the choices. Most importantly, we try to meet the artist before working with them. The person behind the painting is often more important than the artwork itself. The artist needs to like us and be ready to grow with us. Sometimes we manage to get the artists we want, and sometimes we fail.
How did you source more established European artists which are now part of the HdM Gallery portfolio?
We have a wish list. Similarly with my previous answer, I work closely with my team on the selection process.
Being a gallerist means working actively on positioning your artists. How do you approach that part of your work?
It’s true, it takes a lot of work talking to industry “influencers” which are not the Instagram ones but rather museum directors, curators, etc. Trying to help them understand that we work with very talented artists who shouldn’t be ignored by the big institutions. I like this part of the job because it’s about human relationships. It involves trust and true exchanges.
Today, a substantial part of your business as a gallerist is taking place online. What skills are required in the digital sphere?
Online is key today, but it’s also a trap. Many “new” artists are “born” online and have online success. However, I think we need to meet the artist and have them grow with us offline as well. The skill required is very logical. It is about having good judgement to put aside the online craziness and look at the true values.
Tell us about the latest exhibitions you have curated in Beijing and London?
The next show will be amazing. It’s 15 years of our gallery’s relationship with artists. We are opening a new show with all the artists who have supported us from the beginning. It will enable the audience to see what we have been doing for our artists, but also what the artists have been giving us which the most important factor: their trust.
What is planned for you across 2024?
A lot of great solo exhibitions. Some surprises lay ahead.
Talking about ART SG 2024, what should art lovers and collectors expect to see on the HdM Art Gallery booth?
We will exhibit a solo exhibition of Gioele Amaro — a great Italian artist.
Read More: Gioele Amaro Ushers in the New Era of Contemporary Art
What is your favorite museum in China?
The Taikang Art Museum for contemporary art. They have an amazing collection of artworks. It is a real love for art that motivated the owners. Also, a wish to better understand the creation in China for the last 30 years. I also enjoy Shanghai Art Museum for more classical furniture (which I love).
What is your favorite museum in Europe?
It’s not because I am French, but I really love the Pompidou Center. I have studied there for my Art History Masters. It is a must-see museum for its architecture, its permanent collections and the great exhibitions they produce. I also like two more classical museums — The Wallace Collection in London and The Musée Nissim de Camondo in Paris. Both of these museums are the result of collectors opening their house to the public. It’s the eye of one collector.
What is the best advice you would give to a young gallerist wanting to set up their own Art gallery?
Artist, artist, artist. The rest is detail.
If you were to name one mentor who has inspired you in your life and path as an artist, who would that be?
Simon Murray. He is an English entrepreneur who made me realise that everything was possible.
For more on HdM gallery, click here.
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Wednesday, November 29, 2023
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Mozart’s Last Castle Is On Sale
Mozart’s Last Castle: Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
Many people believe that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was the most significant musical genius to have ever lived. His more than 800 compositions, which included concertos, symphonies, and operas, helped to define the classical age and served as an inspiration to composers such as Tchaikovsky and Beethoven. Even now, performances of his music can be found all over the world. Mozart, a young maestro, began writing pieces at the age of five and his first symphony at the age of eight. He performed for royalty while touring Europe with his family. He was named court concertmaster in Salzburg in 1769 when he turned 13. He would later serve for other royal clients, including Emperor Joseph II, before going out on his own as an independent.
At 35, Mozart passed away in 1791 after becoming ill during the world premiere of his opera La Clemenza di Tito. Some of his most beloved compositions, such as the opera The Magic Flute and his Requiem, which he was unable to complete before his death, were created during his fruitful final year.
A beautifully decorated living area. Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
Count Franz von Walsegg of Schloss Stuppach in Salzburg, Austria commissioned Mozart’s last composition. The bidding for this historic castle, one of the few in lower Austria still privately owned, will be open until December 14 at Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions in New York. A price of 12 million euros was previously offered for the palace. Known as “Mozart’s Last Castle,” the building now houses multiple other companies and a top-notch performance venue. The property acquisition includes access to the experience theatre, club salon, concert program, and castle shop.
The beautiful dining space. Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
With some partial renovations in the 15th and 17th centuries, the castle has a complex history that begins at least in 1130. The officer in charge of the castle defied the Nazi orders to blow it up in 1945 so that it wouldn’t fall into Soviet hands, and the castle survived. Its architecture, which incorporates aspects of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, reflects the several eras in which it was built. The exquisite four-story home is encircled by a beautifully designed park featuring ornate gardens and historic trees.
Fully equipped kitchen area. Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
The old house has rare treasures throughout. The 50 rooms of the castle offer a variety of leisure areas, including a formal dining room, two halls, a movie theatre, and a library. The estate also has a dungeon and the Renaissance-style Requiem chapel. Along with Mozart, other well-known guests of the castle include Emperor Franz Stephan of Lothringen, Napoleon Bonaparte, Franz Schubert, Pope Pius VI, and Princess Isabelle von Bourbon-Parma.
Wind down in the bedroom. Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
The Austrian village of Gloggnitz is home to Schloss Stuppach. The region has a wealth of historical sites and several Gothic and Baroque architecture. It’s conveniently located—a rail or automobile ride from Vienna takes only about an hour. Vienna, sometimes called the “City of Music,” has a rich and lengthy history of classical music, opera, and theatre. Mozart resided in the city for much of his career, married at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and was interred in the St. Marx Cemetery. Numerous monuments, a museum, and the composer’s surviving apartment testify to the composer’s close relationship with Austria’s energetic city.
Enjoy a bath in this charming bathroom. Image: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
The auction will be held by Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions. Photos: Thomas Meyer Photography provided by Concierge Auctions.
Source: www.conciergeauctions.com
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Why Botswana’s andBeyond Sandibe is a Must-Experience African Adventure
As I stepped off the helicopter, the overwhelming beauty of the Okavango Delta unfolded beneath me. It was a visual symphony of nature, a place where dreams met reality. My journey with andBeyond in Botswana had begun, and I was about to embark on an adventure that would awaken the eight-year-old boy in me, living out his Indiana Jones and Jungle Book fantasies.
The first awe-inspiring moment came swiftly. As our safari vehicle approached a secluded thicket, a majestic pride of lions emerged from the shadows. Their golden coats glistened in the African sun, and I could hardly believe I was this close to these magnificent creatures. The wild echoed with the sound of their soft roars, a memory etched in my mind forever.
The surprises kept coming. From my room, perched amidst the lush foliage, I gazed out at a private plunge pool that overlooked the delta. There, like guardian spirits of the wilderness, a group of elephants gracefully strolled by. I watched in silent wonder, feeling as if I had a front-row seat to an intimate gathering of Earth’s most majestic beings.
Safari journeys are honest conversations between your adult self and your inner child. As I ventured deeper into the wilderness, I saw hippos with their young, their bulbous forms gently gliding through the delta’s channels. Zebras raced with the wind, their black and white stripes creating a mesmerizing pattern as cheetahs pursued them. It was as if I had stepped into the pages of a storybook, living the tales of my childhood imagination.
But it wasn’t just the wildlife that left me in awe. The Okavango Delta gifted us with glorious deep orange sunsets that painted the sky in vivid, breathtaking hues. It was as if the heavens themselves were putting on a show, a daily reminder of nature’s unparalleled artistry.
My home during this journey was andBeyond Sandibe, a lodge that seamlessly blended with the natural world around it. Inspired by the elusive pangolin, the architecture of the lodge was a harmonious union of contemporary design and African authenticity. The rooms, reminiscent of weaver’s nests, were nestled in the treetops, providing panoramic views of the delta. I felt like a bird perched high in the branches, my own personal eyrie to observe the theater of the wild.
The game drives led by our guides were nothing short of remarkable. Their deep knowledge of the land, as well as their uncanny ability to track the animals, added a layer of excitement and connection to the experience. Every outing felt like a treasure hunt, with each encounter revealing a new and captivating chapter of the delta’s story.
What truly set andBeyond Sandibe apart was the warm embrace of the staff and chefs. They made me feel not like a guest, but like a cherished member of the family. Their dedication to hospitality and their passion for the natural world resonated in every smile and every dish they prepared. It was a feeling of being at home, albeit in the heart of the wilderness.
In this land of visual wonders, where our memories are drawn from what we see, andBeyond Sandibe was a masterpiece of sight, sound, and sensation. It was an adventure that left me forever changed and inspired. I encourage every traveler, every storyteller, and every adventurer to experience Botswana with andBeyond Sandibe. This, without a doubt, must be on everyone’s bucket list. As a seasoned traveler, I can confidently say that andBeyond Sandibe ranks among my top five must-experience destinations in the world. It’s a place where the line between reality and dreams blurs, where the spirit of adventure thrives, and where the wild calls to the inner child in all of us.
For more luxury travel reads and recommendations, click here.
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Tuesday, November 28, 2023
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Here’s What Happened at the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter Grand Opening Party
It was all smiles as celebrities, models, musicians and entrepreneurs descended to the heart of Bangkok to celebrate the launch of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter in Thailand. In a dazzling display of cultural fusion and modern flair, the grand opening was graced by celebrities and punctuated by a fashion showcase of unrivalled creativity, celebrating the new “Beyond Silk” ethos. This destination is now poised to draw visitors from across the globe, setting a new standard for flair and ingenuity in the heart of Thailand.
The spectacular opening saw the attendance of several renowned Thai celebrities, including Pruk “Zee” Panich, Chawarin “Nunew” Perdpiriyawong, Thitiya “Baipor” Jirapornsilp, Jumpol “Off” Adulkittiporn, Atthaphan “Gun” Phunsawat and Vasin “Ko” Assawanarunat. Also among the guests were top management from Central Group, King Power, One Bangkok and Siam Piwat. However, it was the fashion show that formed the centrepiece of the event.
42 captivating looks were unveiled, each establishing a new benchmark for sartorial creativity and sophistication. The Jim Thompson collection showcased a versatile range, bridging the gap between relaxed beachwear and the sophistication of everyday wear for work or travel.
The highlight was the dramatic reveal of the last look – “Look 42” – a testament to the enduring innovation, artistry, and heritage that Jim Thompson is celebrated for. The show’s pinnacle look paid homage to regal sophistication with the Ikat Silk/Metallic Jacquard Gown, inspired by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s iconic Thai silk gown. The showstopper gown was a masterful rendition of Jim Thompson’s exquisite metallic and golden silk fabrics, offering a modern take on Thai tradition for the discerning aesthete. Accompanying the fashion show was an artful selection of songs which chronicled the company’s journey since the 1950s — each emblematic of its era, deeply connected to key moments in the brand’s history and to its founder, Mr. Thompson.
Read More: Jim Thompson Solidifies Brand Expansion Plans into Asia With Bangkok Grand Opening
Frank Cancelloni, Group CEO at Jim Thompson, reflected on the event’s success, stating, “The grand opening of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter was a celebration of our heritage and a declaration of our future. It represents a pivotal moment as we embark on our mission to become Asia’s first iconic global lifestyle brand. We are proud to showcase Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry to the world through our diverse offerings.
Read More: Jim Thompson Debuts the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter
Culinary artistry was at the forefront with a menu designed by the executive chef of Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant offering an array of signature dishes. The O.S.S. Bar showcased its celebrated mixologists with meticulously crafted drinks. These unique epicurean experiences not only showcased the brand’s unwavering dedication to delivering exquisite dining experience but also set the stage for an unforgettable after party held at The Moonlight Hall, featuring a line-up of DJs and the admired Thai band – Nisatiwa.
This was instrumental as the culinary landscape at Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter promises to become a food connoisseur’s paradise. Jim Thompson, A Thai Restaurant, has undergone a vibrant transformation, aiming to become a cornerstone of modern Thai cuisine with its creative menu offering an inventive twist to classic flavours through an enticing à la carte menu.
Read More: Binance NFT celebrates Elephant Day with inaugural Jim Thompson NFTs
This new lifestyle quarter provides a dynamic space where history, art, culture, cuisine and retail experience converge, reflecting Jim Thompson’s vision of crafting a global destination that celebrates the essence of Thai heritage and modernity.
The success of Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter’s grand opening has set the stage for the brand to continue its evolution as a leader in the global lifestyle sector with this new venture as a vibrant lifestyle destination, drawing both international and domestic tourists to the heart of Thailand.
For more the lastest in luxury and business, click here.
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The OpenAI Debate and the Ramification of Improper AI Governance
The decision by OpenAI’s board of directors to sacrifice OpenAI’s founder and chief executive officer Sam Altman as CEO only to reinstate him four days later, speaks volumes about how the people that govern the rapidly evolving field of generative AI prioritise commercial success over humanitarian morals. The reasoning of Altman’s firing was reported to be that Altman “was not consistently candid in his communications” and that the board “no longer had confidence in his ability to continue leading OpenAI”. Following Altman’s ousting, hundreds of OpenAI employees, including co-founder and board member Ilya Sutskever, signed a letter demanding that remaining board members resign or they would leave.
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According to The Economist, there was speculation that Altman was moving too quickly to expand OpenAI’s commercial offerings without adequately considering the safety implications. However, Altman has previously expressed concern for OpenAI’s safety stating “I think if this technology goes wrong, it can go quite wrong and we want to be vocal about that. We want to work with the goverment to prevent that from happening and we try to be very clear-eyed about what the down-side case is and the work we have to do to mitigate that”.
The Silicon Valley Shake-Up
The initial firing of Altman represents a larger shake-up in Silicon Valley between two camps of people. The “Doomers” which prefer open-sourced software and calls on AI regulation as opposed the “Boomers” who are comprised of technology optimists and opt for closed-sourced or propriety software. The afrementioned AI regulations are based on safety but would also make it harder for new companies to break into the industry and therefore protect the investments of “Doomers”. Sam Altman who was (and is) the human face of generative AI particularly since the release of ChatGPT in 2022, was able to steer the line between these two camps of people.
Read More: Opinion: Lil Miquela & The Fall of the AI influencer
Win-Win Scenario at Microsoft
Here is where Microsoft comes in. After Sam Altman’s initial firing, the softwear visionary was initially welcomed into microsoft along with the employees who had threatened to leave following his ousting. At a valuation of USD 29 Billion, Microsoft who owns 49 percent of OpenAI has invested more than USD 10 billion into OpenAI since 2019, so had Altman joined Microsoft it was initially suspected he would, Microsoft would have retained both their licencing rights with OpenAI alongside their relationship with Altman and a slew of reseachers and engineers to lead a new advanced AI research team. The Financial Times reports that Microsoft is still hoping for governance changes that could give it a say in how the company is run.
The Future of Governance
The intial conceptualisation of Open AI was to create a non-profit artificial intelligence set-up that would design open source software and attempt to counter Google’s growing dominance in the field. Moving forward we can expect to see not only new releases but the pace at which AI technology is released from OpenAI. Investors and goverments will be looking into the governance mechanisms set in place by these firms due to their rapid growth in the last few years alone. According to the Financial Times, analysts have suggested that OpenAI will be hit by the week’s events, with rival groups Google and Amazon representing strong and stable challengers in the race to offer generative artificial intelligence services to businesses and consumers. It will be up to Altman to monitor the complex governance arrangements in which a not-for-profit board oversees a for-profit company and clear the path for a simpler corporate structure moving forward.
What About The Rest of Us?
The right to AI’s control and goverance will arguably have the biggest impact on the public. For one instance, the use of AI-influenced autonomous weapons. Take the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine or Israel and Palestine as an example. Autonomous weapons are pre-programmed to a specific target. AI searches for that “target profile” using sensor data like facial recognition. When the weapon encounters someone (or something) the algorithm perceives to match its target profile, it fires and kills. This has the potential to become a global security threat as it is not monitored by human judgement and elimiates the accountability of those who yeild the autonomous weapons.
Outside of war, we are only starting to see regulation regarding the use of deepfakes and the misinformation and malicious content that comes alongside it. Financial penalties are still a far cry from preventing its potential manipulate public opinion alongside more nuainced issues like financial fraud and revenge porn. However, there is yet to be a federal criminal law or legislation against deepfakes in the United States.
Perhaps the select few in control should go back to the board’s purpose of creating AI that “benefits all of humanity” over its desire for profit and the battle for AI dominance.
For more on the latest in business and tech reads, click here.
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Monday, November 27, 2023
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Jim Thompson Solidifies Brand Expansion into Asia With Bangkok Grand Opening
It was all smiles as celebrities, models, musicians and entrepreneurs descended to the heart of Bangkok to celebrate the lauch of the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter in Thailand. This was no ordinary opening however as the landmark grand launch marked a milestone for the Jim Thompson brand in establishing its presence as one of Asia’s first global lifestyle brands and in doing so, expanding its influence across fashion, hospitality, and home furnishings sectors with innovative consumer engagement strategies.
Under the leadership of Frank Cancelloni, group CEO at Jim Thompson, The Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter is positioning itself as a retail destination with Thailand as its first step in an ongoing multimillion-dollar investment strategy to ascend as one of Asia’s latest cultural and lifestyle destinations. Heritage Quarter is but an extension of already established spaces including within the realm of art and culture with the Jim Thompson House Museum, the vibrant Jim Thompson Art Center and the Museum About the Man which dedicated exhibition honoring the brand’s founder Jim Thompson. The Jim Thompson House Museum has already been recognised as one of Bangkok’s top five tourist attractions, earning itself a spot in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2022.
Read More: Jim Thompson Debuts the Jim Thompson Heritage Quarter
As for fashion, there is the The Evolving World of Jim Thompson Textiles which is a permanent exhibition while the hospitality industry is represented by The Iconic Store, an expansive hospitality complex centered around Jim Thompson followed by A Thai Restaurant. The restaurant is complemented by The O.S.S. Bar, The O.S.S. Room for afternoon tea, Jim’s Terrace for tapas and Silk Café for casual dining, and the multipurpose event space named the Moonlight Hall. The Heritage Quarter comes in as a pivotal step in Jim Thompson’s journey to reinforce its identity as an within Asia’s lifestyle sector. The Heritage Quarter serves as a testament to the brand’s “Beyond Silk” vision, encompassing its expansion into the realms of fashion, home furnishings, and hospitality while differenciating James H.W. Thompson as the proclaimed “Thai Silk King”, a narrative Thompson received from his role in shaping the Thai silk industry and his renowned art collection.
Jim Thompson’s global reach extends beyond the operation of its three factories in Thailand, encompassing a network of retail stores, home furnishings showrooms, distributors and restaurants, consolidating the brand’s international presence. This broad reach is epitomised by the Heritage Quarter, designed to serve an audience that ranges from local patrons to international visitors, thus reinforcing Jim Thompson’s status as a prominent feature in Thailand’s prime tourism destinations. In alignment with its international expansion, Jim Thompson is forging key partnerships and collaborations with Panpuri Wellness, Thai Airways, emerging Thai artists and designers, as well as upcoming partnerships with international brands. Bangkok was not the only major city in their sights. Recent years has seen Jim Thompson has revitalise its retail presence in tourist destinations including Pattaya, Phuket and Chiang Mai.
Read More: Binance NFT celebrates Elephant Day with inaugural Jim Thompson NFTs
While the brand’s founder Jim Thompson’s disappearance may remain to be one of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries, the legacy and growth ahead of the Jim Thompson empire with the guidance and vision of Frank Cancelloni is far less ominous.
For more the lastest in luxury and business, click here.
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Sunday, November 26, 2023
Luxury Businesses Are Changing How They Operate
Luxury businesses are changing how they operate in a sign of the times. The old way of doing things no longer applies to today’s nouveau riche who expect modern themes to combine with old-fashioned decadence.
But what does this mean for firms? We explore that fascinating subject here. There’s more to it than you might think.
Conscious Luxury
Top of the list of consumer priorities in the 2020s is conscious luxury. Customers want to know the products they are buying don’t embody suffering or environmental harm.
The growth in popularity of lab diamonds driven by celebrities is a case in point. The wealthy are no longer willing to purchase products that involve the suffering of workers or even the killing of innocent people to push up margins for certain diamond companies.
Conscious luxury is also showing up in the way wealthy people approach purchases. Individuals no longer want to buy things that could cause harm to cultural heritage. Many are looking for items with timeless qualities that won’t require replacement in the near future.
Innovative Materials
Luxury brands are also experimenting with innovative materials to make their products better. Twenty years ago, you couldn’t buy a luxury car with a carbon fiber chassis but today most brands are doing it.
Materials are a sign of opulence. But what counts as an opulent material changes as research and development continue. Fifty years ago, titanium bikes were meant to be the next big thing. However, other materials supplanted them for various reasons, including ease of manufacturing.
AI Customer Service
Another trend in changing luxury brand operations is the inclusion of advanced AIs to provide customers with better service. Companies want to be always available to their clients at a low cost, regardless of the time or day.
Historically, this meant fielding customer service reps at great expense. Top brands would hire people to sit by the phone throughout the night, waiting for clients to call.
However, new AGIs are making that sort of approach increasingly redundant. These systems are intelligent enough to carry out full-blown conversations on the fly without requiring pre-programming. Computers can also take action to resolve customers’ problems, such as booking appointments on their behalf. That’s not to say that robots can replace regular customer service agents entirely – they can’t yet. But they can get pretty close.
Storing Items Off-Site
Another development we are seeing in the luxury brand space is the trend to store goods locally and off-site. Companies are looking to spread their risks and enable more efficient distribution.
To achieve this, many are turning to flexible self-storage, according to Pink Storage, a firm that operates in the sector. “Businesses want to use self-storage facilities because they keep valuable stock safe. Many firms run 24/7 security and build perimeter fences to keep clients; possessions safe.”
Experiential Retail
Experiential retail is another trend emerging in the luxury sector. Brands are attempting to curate new experiences for clients that go beyond walking into a store, picking up items, paying for them, and walking out.
Historically, some clothing brands attempted this. Hollister, for instance, would dim the lights in its stores and add mist to the environment to give it an other-worldly feel.
Most companies are using VIP experiences to boost customer engagement. Instead of simply inviting people into a store, they are taking them on a journey of their companies and allowing them behind the scenes to see how everything works.
These experiences sound gimmicky, but they help build closer relationships between brands and their clients. Customers feel like they trust the brand more and can build rapport with it.
It is also enjoyable for customers who admire the brand. A chance to see how the entire operation works and what’s coming down the pike next is an exciting opportunity for many people.
Membership Programs
Membership programs are another way luxury businesses are changing how they operate. Instead of asking customers to pay upfront for goods, many firms are offering packages of services that provide better value than selling products individually.
These programs often contain a convenience element. For example, brands will curate products automatically for their customers based on their preferences, or they will deliver them regularly, making new shipments as soon as existing product levels run low.
The addition of special privileges for loyal customers can be even more effective. VIP experiences encourage customers to spend more to ensure they receive the best treatment.
Integrated Technology In Products
Some brands are also taking the bold move of integrating technology into their products. Historically, this hasn’t always worked particularly well, but in today’s economy, it is finding more traction.
For example, ultra-high-end clothes makers are using expensive nanotechnologies to improve their clothing’s performance. These materials have hydrophobic properties, meaning they never get wet or stained while remaining breathable like a normal garment.
Other examples include limited edition collections of already popular products. Luxury automakers often build runs of a dozen or less of unique models that include special materials, new computer management, or advanced connectivity.
Virtual Reality Shopping Experiences
We’re also seeing many of these firms incorporate so-called “virtual reality” shopping experiences into their customer journeys. The idea here is to provide people with the same level of in-person excitement without the need to travel thousands of miles by plane.
Again, the technology isn’t perfect yet, but it does provide insight into the future of shopping and retail therapy. Ultimately, the concept has the capacity to be even better than conventional shopping because it lets designers build whatever environment they want. They are no longer restricted to the size and layout of the mall unit.
E-Commerce Presence
Another change to luxury business operations is their increasing e-commerce presence. Companies are realizing that the best way for them to be successful is to appeal to younger audiences online.
Again, these strategies go against their instincts, but they are nevertheless essential. Brands need to list their products online to attract the attention of wealthy individuals who rarely, if ever, take a trip to the mall.
For more on luxury business reads, click here.
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Sanlorenzo Launches Second 57Steel
Sanlorenzo has launched Virtuosity, the second unit the Italian builder’s 57Steel, a model that had its world premiere at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show in late September. A 56.7m superyacht with a volume of 1,021GT, Virtuosityfeatures an exterior by Zuccon International Project and an interior by Piero Lissoni, assisted by the Sanlorenzo SY Style Centre.
The beach area can be enlarged to 150sqm when the side and aft platforms unfold, while features include a gym, customised hammam, sauna and wet bar.
The main deck starts aft with a custom glass-bottomed pool, while the sunbathing area leads into the main saloon through a cocktail transition area. The saloon has resin flooring, full-height windows and a double-sided sofa at its centre: on one side living space, on the other a living area that can be converted into dining.
The lobby features a sculptural, imposing central staircase that connects all the decks, while the ceiling above the staircase is made of transparent glass. Lissoni, Sanlorenzo’s Art Director, chose the interior furnishings, which are characterised by neutral tones and natural materials. The main deck has a full-beam cabin forward.
On the upper deck, dedicated to the owner, the open aft area has sun loungers and a dining area with a bespoke table by Lissoni featuring a marble top and sculptural carbon-fibre base. A customised, curved sliding door leads into the upped-deck saloon, which also has full-height windows, while the full-beam owner’s suite benefits from a private swimming pool in the bow.
On the bridge deck, the outdoor area offers living and dining areas, while the interior can function as a DJ area, with a table concealing the music equipment, or an intimate space for conversation. The lower deck has two VIP cabins and two guest cabins with single beds that can be converted into doubles.
www.sanlorenzoyacht.com
www.simpsonmarine.com
This article was first published on yachtstyle.co
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How To Make Your Family Vacation More Fun
Vacations are a great way to unwind and enjoy memorable moments. However, if you don’t plan properly, things can get boring, negatively impacting your experience. There is no one-size-fits-all formula to enjoy a great vacation, but there are plenty of things you can do to make any trip unforgettable and stress-free. If you’re dreaming of having the best vacation ever, consider these practical tips to ensure you and your family truly have a blast during your time off.
1. Consider your kids’ needs
Adults’ ideal vacations are not usually what kids have in their minds. Therefore, involving the little ones in your vacation plans is a helpful idea. Get their input as early as possible so they will have a say in the program line-up. If everyone endorses the idea behind the destination, the vacation will prove exciting as everyone will fully participate and get the best out of everything.
After considering your kids’ needs, you’ll then be able to pick a family-friendly destination everyone can enjoy. Selecting the appropriate destination is important to enhance the vacation experience. As a tip, search for places that provide a host of activities suitable for people of all ages. Popular family-friendly destinations include beach resorts with outdoor cinemas, national parks, zoos, amusement parks, and cities with museums. Prioritize the unique needs and interests of your loved ones, and pick a destination that aligns with your vacation goals.
2. Do your research well
The more you get to understand where you are heading, the better your chances of making the most out of the trip. You may not need a long itinerary for the adventure, but you surely need to have a well-designed outline. The internet is a great resource to do your homework on your vacation. Learn up-to-date information on the trip and use travel guidebooks when necessary. Working with a travel agency may be advisable to gain professional tips on what it takes to make the experience worth it.
3. Develop a flexible itinerary
Having a general plan is necessary for vacationers, but developing a flexible itinerary is even more important. Maintaining flexibility in your vacation itinerary allows you to cater for spontaneous adventures and downtime. When kids are involved, it will help to balance the activities to avoid ruining their playtime. Furthermore, you can also enjoy unexpected events where the family can have a fun experience without feeling rushed.
Making plans to relax when going on vacations is particularly important during trips that involve multiple trips to reach the destination. Vacations that are rich in adventures can be exhausting when you don’t create room for relaxation. With a flexible itinerary, you can have a few hours of rest and restore energy to enjoy a fulfilling excursion. Arranging for relaxation doesn’t have to be a difficult thing. Discuss with your family or the group you are traveling and you can free time schedules to aid relaxation.
4. Make safety a must
Safety should always be on your vacation checklist. It should be a top priority when kids are involved in the adventure. Verify the crime rate and safety measures of the destination and ensure the place is healthy and conducive for everyone. Get a first-aid kit for emergencies, develop safety guidelines for kids, and take note of emergency numbers. Also, remember to educate everyone about sun protection and other safety precautions, depending on the destination.
5. Embrace nature
Embracing nature will make your vacation more fun. Consider exploring the outdoors with your family; it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural environment. You may plan fun activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking in a nearby forest. Spending time with nature will not only create opportunities for physical exercise but also ensure lasting memories and stronger family bonds.
6. Be tech-savvy and know when to disconnect
Technological devices like smartphones and computers can make vacations super entertaining. However, without striking a balance between tech and life, the vacation can be overwhelming, and you can also miss precious moments. Tech-savvy vacationers should know when to disconnect. Encouraging the family to take a break from their screens will foster engaging activities and more social interactions. Parents will want to limit kids’ screen time and schedule tech-free periods for fun activities. For example, playing board games can be a great way to disconnect and bond.
7. Eat well
Develop a healthy diet plan for the vacation to help you stay on track with your nutrition. Staying on point with your diet doesn’t mean you have to be perfect; you only need to learn to balance the dishes. You can prepare nutritious meals if you have the facilities to do so. Having healthy meals ready will help overcome hunger, which is common on long trips.
Snacks are always worth adding to your vacation menu. You can bring food items from home when going on sightseeing to reduce your expenses on snacks. You can also be selective of the restaurants you and your family go to so you can have wholesome and enjoyable meals without breaking the bank.
8. Have a steady sleep schedule
Sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on the body when vacationing. Depending on your age and the activities you do during the trip, you may need a restful sleep to enjoy the adventure. Sticking to a fixed bedtime and getting at least 7 hours of sleep daily is healthy for your body. Enough sleep helps release stress, repair worn-out tissues, and replenish lost energy.
9. Track your budget
Overspending on a vacation is easy. However, it can leave you financially stranded in the wrong place. You must watch your budget and consider incentives, discounts, and other specialized deals to spend less. Consider using apps like TravelSpend to track your spending when traveling around the world. Inform your travel professional about special events or celebrations you want to add to the trip. They can help develop a reasonable budget for the vacation.
10. Move more during the day
Try to move as much as possible in the daytime. Aside from helping you to enjoy the sights and sounds of your destination, it also helps you to stay active. Staying on the move doesn’t mean you have to go for a long walk or hit the gym. You can get off the bus one stop earlier for a brisk walk or use the stairs when you can. Enough movement during the day will make you more active and effective. Also, keeping the right fitness gear handy can make your vacation more fun.
Regarding a healthy lifestyle around a vacation, you need to keep things as simple as possible. Simple workouts don’t require heavy equipment. So you can bring things like yoga mats and other basic items you need to stay active during the vacation.
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