Latest news with #FN


Fashion Network
11 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
Authentic reinforces global strategy with APAC headquarters in Shanghai
Fashion Network: Over the past few years, the performance of many brands in China's market has not been that competitive. Why has Authentic still chosen to set up its APAC center in Shanghai instead of other cities? Jamie Salter: We believe in the long-term potential of the Chinese and broader Asia-Pacific market, and Shanghai is at the heart of that vision. Shanghai is a dynamic city and is the right home for our APAC headquarters, with China presenting great growth opportunities. The opening of our Shanghai office reflects our confidence in the region and commitment to building strong, localized partnerships that unlock the full potential of our brands. This city also provides a complete ecosystem that supports the acceleration and localization of our portfolio brands. It is our long-term commitment to this market. FN: What key brands will Authentic focus on developing in the Greater China/APAC area? Matt Maddox: Our strategic partnerships are driving significant success across our brand portfolio. Nautica is thriving through our collaboration with Tristate, whose deep expertise in China's apparel market and understanding of the brand have proven invaluable. For Hunter, our partnership with Baozun leverages their robust digital, logistics, and supply chain capabilities, perfectly suiting a brand focused on quality, performance and storytelling. Brooks Brothers is gaining renewed momentum thanks to ImagineX, a leading partner in building premium local brands. Finally, Champion 's explosive growth is a direct result of our collaboration with Belle Fashion, which has expertly positioned the brand in key retail channels and effectively connected with the right consumers. FN: What are the criteria for choosing these local partners? Matt Maddox: With nearly 1,800 global partners, our primary focus consistently centers on the product. We prioritize collaborations that effectively represent the brands and yield products genuinely valued by regional customers. This emphasis on product and quality naturally leads to considerations of operational synergy and collaborative methodologies. We are committed to fostering long-term, sustainable relationships built over many years. Our aspiration is for our global brands to also achieve local relevance, both here and in other markets, thereby significantly broadening our partnership footprint worldwide. FN: How do you manage brands with different cultural backgrounds across regional markets? Jamie Salter: Our core business model remains consistent globally; however, cultural adaptation is paramount. While product is key, we recognize the importance of localization: approximately 50% of our product line is global, with the remaining 50% tailored to local preferences. The world is shrinking due to social media and influencers, leading to increasingly similar styles worldwide. The time lag for trends to travel, once six months from Europe to America, has significantly shortened in the digital age. Therefore, our strategy is firmly 'Think Global, Act Local,' a practice we will continue to refine. We're observing a significant shift with products from Japan, Korea, and China, like the highly sought-after Champion Japan collection, now influencing the American market. Our asset-light business model facilitates this global collaboration, ensuring all partners can access diverse products. FN: How do you manage different teams that have varying cultural dynamics? Matt Maddox: From a cultural standpoint, we deeply value listening to our local teams and understanding that operational approaches and team dynamics vary significantly by region. This philosophy extends to our regional companies, each operating almost autonomously rather than receiving top-down directives from Europe, North America, or China, ensuring they effectively cater to their respective local cultures. FN: Aside from brand management, Authentic also operates a sports and entertainment business. Are there plans to expand this business locally? Jamie Salter: Our playbook remains centered on building out sports and entertainment, encompassing live events, experiences and media, much of which is already in motion. With Sports Illustrated, for example, we have live events in Singapore, and we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. With figures like David Beckham present and Sports Illustrated established, alongside live events in Singapore, we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. This expansion will involve both existing brands and the integration of new local celebrities and athletes, with a critical focus on their global appeal. Our 'Think Global, Act Local' strategy dictates that while we adapt to local markets, any engagement—particularly brand acquisitions—must have international travel potential. We believe that what resonates in one market, such as China, can indeed find success back in America. As a global company, we may engage in collaborations for purely local ventures, but our acquisitions prioritize brands with global reach.


Fashion Network
12 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
Authentic reinforces global strategy with APAC headquarters in Shanghai
Fashion Network: Over the past few years, the performance of many brands in China's market has not been that competitive. Why has Authentic still chosen to set up its APAC center in Shanghai instead of other cities? Jamie Salter: We believe in the long-term potential of the Chinese and broader Asia-Pacific market, and Shanghai is at the heart of that vision. Shanghai is a dynamic city and is the right home for our APAC headquarters, with China presenting great growth opportunities. The opening of our Shanghai office reflects our confidence in the region and commitment to building strong, localized partnerships that unlock the full potential of our brands. This city also provides a complete ecosystem that supports the acceleration and localization of our portfolio brands. It is our long-term commitment to this market. FN: What key brands will Authentic focus on developing in the Greater China/APAC area? Matt Maddox: Our strategic partnerships are driving significant success across our brand portfolio. Nautica is thriving through our collaboration with Tristate, whose deep expertise in China's apparel market and understanding of the brand have proven invaluable. For Hunter, our partnership with Baozun leverages their robust digital, logistics, and supply chain capabilities, perfectly suiting a brand focused on quality, performance and storytelling. Brooks Brothers is gaining renewed momentum thanks to ImagineX, a leading partner in building premium local brands. Finally, Champion 's explosive growth is a direct result of our collaboration with Belle Fashion, which has expertly positioned the brand in key retail channels and effectively connected with the right consumers. FN: What are the criteria for choosing these local partners? Matt Maddox: With nearly 1,800 global partners, our primary focus consistently centers on the product. We prioritize collaborations that effectively represent the brands and yield products genuinely valued by regional customers. This emphasis on product and quality naturally leads to considerations of operational synergy and collaborative methodologies. We are committed to fostering long-term, sustainable relationships built over many years. Our aspiration is for our global brands to also achieve local relevance, both here and in other markets, thereby significantly broadening our partnership footprint worldwide. FN: How do you manage brands with different cultural backgrounds across regional markets? Jamie Salter: Our core business model remains consistent globally; however, cultural adaptation is paramount. While product is key, we recognize the importance of localization: approximately 50% of our product line is global, with the remaining 50% tailored to local preferences. The world is shrinking due to social media and influencers, leading to increasingly similar styles worldwide. The time lag for trends to travel, once six months from Europe to America, has significantly shortened in the digital age. Therefore, our strategy is firmly 'Think Global, Act Local,' a practice we will continue to refine. We're observing a significant shift with products from Japan, Korea, and China, like the highly sought-after Champion Japan collection, now influencing the American market. Our asset-light business model facilitates this global collaboration, ensuring all partners can access diverse products. FN: How do you manage different teams that have varying cultural dynamics? Matt Maddox: From a cultural standpoint, we deeply value listening to our local teams and understanding that operational approaches and team dynamics vary significantly by region. This philosophy extends to our regional companies, each operating almost autonomously rather than receiving top-down directives from Europe, North America, or China, ensuring they effectively cater to their respective local cultures. FN: Aside from brand management, Authentic also operates a sports and entertainment business. Are there plans to expand this business locally? Jamie Salter: Our playbook remains centered on building out sports and entertainment, encompassing live events, experiences and media, much of which is already in motion. With Sports Illustrated, for example, we have live events in Singapore, and we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. With figures like David Beckham present and Sports Illustrated established, alongside live events in Singapore, we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. This expansion will involve both existing brands and the integration of new local celebrities and athletes, with a critical focus on their global appeal. Our 'Think Global, Act Local' strategy dictates that while we adapt to local markets, any engagement—particularly brand acquisitions—must have international travel potential. We believe that what resonates in one market, such as China, can indeed find success back in America. As a global company, we may engage in collaborations for purely local ventures, but our acquisitions prioritize brands with global reach.


Fashion Network
12 hours ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
Authentic reinforces global strategy with APAC headquarters in Shanghai
Fashion Network: Over the past few years, the performance of many brands in China's market has not been that competitive. Why has Authentic still chosen to set up its APAC centre in Shanghai instead of other cities? Jamie Salter: We believe in the long-term potential of the Chinese and broader Asia-Pacific market, and Shanghai is at the heart of that vision. Shanghai is a dynamic city and is the right home for our APAC headquarters, with China presenting great growth opportunities. The opening of our Shanghai office reflects our confidence in the region and commitment to building strong, localised partnerships that unlock the full potential of our brands. This city also provides a complete ecosystem that supports the acceleration and localisation of our portfolio brands. It is our long-term commitment to this market. FN: What key brands will Authentic focus on developing in the Greater China/APAC area? Matt Maddox: Our strategic partnerships are driving significant success across our brand portfolio. Nautica is thriving through our collaboration with Tristate, whose deep expertise in China's apparel market and understanding of the brand have proven invaluable. For Hunter, our partnership with Baozun leverages their robust digital, logistics, and supply chain capabilities, perfectly suiting a brand focused on quality, performance and storytelling. Brooks Brothers is gaining renewed momentum thanks to ImagineX, a leading partner in building premium local brands. Finally, Champion 's explosive growth is a direct result of our collaboration with Belle Fashion, which has expertly positioned the brand in key retail channels and effectively connected with the right consumers. FN: What are the criteria for choosing these local partners? Matt Maddox: With nearly 1,800 global partners, our primary focus consistently centres on the product. We prioritise collaborations that effectively represent the brands and yield products genuinely valued by regional customers. This emphasis on product and quality naturally leads to considerations of operational synergy and collaborative methodologies. We are committed to fostering long-term, sustainable relationships built over many years. Our aspiration is for our global brands to also achieve local relevance, both here and in other markets, thereby significantly broadening our partnership footprint worldwide. FN: How do you manage brands with different cultural backgrounds across regional markets? Jamie Salter: Our core business model remains consistent globally; however, cultural adaptation is paramount. While product is key, we recognise the importance of localisation: approximately 50% of our product line is global, with the remaining 50% tailored to local preferences. The world is shrinking due to social media and influencers, leading to increasingly similar styles worldwide. The time lag for trends to travel, once six months from Europe to America, has significantly shortened in the digital age. Therefore, our strategy is firmly 'Think Global, Act Local,' a practice we will continue to refine. We're observing a significant shift with products from Japan, Korea, and China, like the highly sought-after Champion Japan collection, now influencing the American market. Our asset-light business model facilitates this global collaboration, ensuring all partners can access diverse products. FN: How do you manage different teams that have varying cultural dynamics? Matt Maddox: From a cultural standpoint, we deeply value listening to our local teams and understanding that operational approaches and team dynamics vary significantly by region. This philosophy extends to our regional companies, each operating almost autonomously rather than receiving top-down directives from Europe, North America, or China, ensuring they effectively cater to their respective local cultures. FN: Aside from brand management, Authentic also operates a sports and entertainment business. Are there plans to expand this business locally? Jamie Salter: Our playbook remains centred on building out sports and entertainment, encompassing live events, experiences and media, much of which is already in motion. With Sports Illustrated, for example, we have live events in Singapore, and we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. With figures like David Beckham present and Sports Illustrated established, alongside live events in Singapore, we are continuously expanding our footprint to replicate our execution model from Europe and America. This expansion will involve both existing brands and the integration of new local celebrities and athletes, with a critical focus on their global appeal. Our 'Think Global, Act Local' strategy dictates that while we adapt to local markets, any engagement—particularly brand acquisitions—must have international travel potential. We believe that what resonates in one market, such as China, can indeed find success back in America. As a global company, we may engage in collaborations for purely local ventures, but our acquisitions prioritize brands with global reach.


Time of India
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Where to find and use Myst Gauntlets in Fortnite
(Image via FN_Assist's 'X' Account) The latest season of Fortnite brings a dark power surge with Myst Gauntlets. The sinister weapons can unleash a swarm of shadowy ravens. They are perfect for aggressive players and can be used for devastating close-quarters combat. To find them is the key, and to wield them in an effective way can turn the tide of either battle. Here is all you need to know about how to find Myst Gauntlets in Fortnite and how and where to use it's shadowy energy. Fortnite Myst Gauntlets : How to find and use them The best bet for the players to secure Myst Gauntlets is within the Supernova Academy—loot the Hero Caches. To reach it, head north-central on the map and find the POI. As you reach there, make your way down to the Tech Lab basement. Go ahead and look for the vault doors; these need Hero Rank C or even higher to be unlocked. How to EASILY get NEW Myst Gauntlets in Fortnite - Myst Gauntlets Gameplay locations Inside vaults, you can find Hero Caches, the special chests that are tied to the player's rank. These are the reliable sources for getting Myst Gauntlets. If your luck is not on your side or your rank by any chance is lower, do not despair. You might even find Myst Gauntlets randomly in the regular chests, scattered all across some other named locations. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Fashion Alert: Women's Lapel Shirt zekear Shop Now Undo There's also another option to get Myst Gauntlets. At times, the floating super stations and some specific lab areas have Myst Gauntlets hovering. Just approach them and interact. But if you want to get the weapon, be ready with 300 Gold Bars for the instant purchase. As you acquire them, using them is straightforward. Just aim at the target and hold the fire button (Left Click/R2). Raven's wide cone would erupt and deal with the continuous damage to anything that's caught within. Best tips and tricks for using Myst Gauntlets in Fortnite The Myst Gauntlets can fire cones of ravens. It deals 12 damage per hit with a high fire rate. As they do not run out of ammo, they are perfect for the sustained pressure. Here is where to use them and how you can use them effectively. Ravens can ambush in the tight spaces. They excel both in the corridors and indoors, where the enemies cannot escape. To ambush the unsuspecting foes right around the corner or through the doorway is one of the brutally effective tactics. Use them in the third-party fights. The wide cone would hit multiple targets. It makes it perfect to finish the weakened squads. Use the Shadow Bombs, Grapplers, Sprint Surge mod, or Shockwaves to close the gap before you unleash the Ravens. Take cover and approach with safety. Then, unleash a shadow storm right in the face of the enemies. But to have a maximum impact, flank enemies, and not charge head-on. The Gauntlets do not have a range. So, surprise attacks will not work. Myst Gauntlets are game-changers for an aggressive gameplay in Fortnite. Also, now that you know how to get and use the Myst Gauntlets in Fortnite effectively, grab them, master them, and dominate the battlefield. Just remember, be mobile and pick the fights wisely. Let the Ravens handle the rest.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Nike Has a New Chief Innovation Officer
Nike Inc. has a new chief innovation officer. Tony Bignell, the vice president for running footwear, has been promoted to chief innovation officer. He will report to Phil McCartney, executive vice president, chief innovation, design and product officer. According to an internal memo obtained by FN, Bignell has started transitioning into his new role, in partnership with John Hoke. More from WWD Every Nike Kobe Sneaker Releasing in 2025 Nike's Most Popular Air Max 95 OG Big Bubble Releases Are Getting Restocked What Nike, Hoka and Other Brands Are Doing to Celebrate Global Running Day Hoke, the departing chief innovation officer, is a 33-year veteran at Nike is retiring. He will stay on through October. Bignell's mandate is to advance the vision of the Advanced Innovation Collective across Nike's portfolio of brands, sports, products and platforms. He has 30 years experience as a product designer, developer, and innovation visionary. Most recently, he led the Footwear Innovation team for nine years, and played a role in creating new footwear platforms such as Next%, VaporMax, React and Joyride. He was also part of the core team leading Breaking2, a project aimed at breaking the two-hour marathon barrier. Bignell also spearheaded a reset of Nike's marketing for running footwear, driving gains in consumer engagement. There have been a number of recent executive changes at Nike following Elliott Hill's appointment as CEO last October. 'Elliott is absolutely the best choice for this position, and I'm so happy to see the brand make the right decision and put him in the job,' Matt Powell, advisor at Spurwink River and senior advisor at BCE Consulting, told FN at the time. 'He has all the qualities that are necessary to help the brand turn around. He has deep experience, both U.S. and global., he understands the culture, he knows of the retailers.' Some of those shifts include last month's promotion of Amy Montagne as Nike brand president and McCartney's promotion to chief innovation, design and product officer. (At the same time, the company disclosed that Heidi O'Neill, president of consumer, product and brand, will be retiring.) And Tom Clarke, who was strategic advisor to the CEO and members of the senior leadership team, took on the new role of chief growth initiatives officer. The company is expected to disclose Bignell's successor 'shortly,' according to one individual familiar with those plans. The flurry of executive moves are believed to be part of Hill's effort to 'accelerate' Nike's progress against it 'Win Now' action plan, which was developed in December. The strategy is based on new priorities centered around five fields of play, three countries and five cities. Best of WWD All the Retailers That Nike Left and Then Went Back Mikey Madison's Elegant Red Carpet Shoe Style [PHOTOS] Julia Fox's Sleekest and Boldest Shoe Looks Over the Years [Photos]