Latest news with #Luxury
Campaign ME
a day ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
The future of luxury packaging
Packaging in the luxury sector is undergoing a quiet revolution – and it's getting smarter, greener, and more purposeful. A new report from Bain & Company, in collaboration with Fedrigoni Group, the global manufacturer of speciality papers, self-adhesive materials, and RFID (radio-frequency identification tags), reveals that sustainability is no longer a trade-off in the world of high-end packaging – it's becoming a competitive edge. In a compelling forecast, the report, Luxury Packaging: Resolving the Tension Between Creativity and Impact, projects that, within the next three years, more than 30 per cent of all luxury packaging sales are expected to use sustainable solutions. The findings, unveiled today at the 'Explore – Fedrigoni Creative Summit' event, held in Paris, draw on a survey of more than 500 executives across the luxury packaging value chain in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including designers, suppliers, converters, and leading brands. 'Packaging is evolving from a static container into a dynamic brand touchpoint,' said Claudia D'Arpizio, senior partner and global head of the Fashion and Luxury practice at Bain & Company. 'It's no longer about choosing between beauty and responsibility. Today, you can – and must – deliver both.' From indulgence to innovation Luxury has long been defined by sensory experiences – the feel of a hand-crafted box, the gleam of a bespoke bottle. But as environmental concerns and regulations reshape the industry, luxury brands are now reimagining their packaging not just as a container but as a statement of values. Marco Nespolo, Fedrigoni Group CEO, said: 'Every day, through our close collaboration with brands, designers and converters, we witness the evolution of what luxury truly means: no longer just about aesthetics and exclusivity, but increasingly about responsibility, transparency and positive impact. In this context, packaging becomes a powerful cultural symbol – beauty that reflects values and innovation that embraces sustainability. As manufacturers of premium papers and self-adhesive and RFID materials, our role is to enable this transformation by delivering high-performance, creative and sustainable solutions. Being a true partner means co-developing with our clients an ecosystem where every material choice becomes a strategic, sustainable and narrative touchpoint.' The report emphasises how leading brands are applying the 'four Rs' (reduce, reuse, recycle, recover) with a luxury twist – substituting traditional materials with advanced papers, biodegradable polymers, and even mycelium-based solutions (a sustainable alternative harnessing the root structure of fungi) that feel as exclusive as they are eco-conscious. Slimmer glass bottles and modular packaging designs are also helping brands cut emissions without compromising elegance. Aesthetic meets ethics Rather than restraining creativity, sustainability is unlocking a new frontier for luxury storytelling and customer connection. Packaging is now being viewed not as the end of the journey but the beginning – especially in the digital realm. Think QR codes embedded in boxes that reveal a garment's origin story, smart labels that verify authenticity, and augmented reality overlays that enhance the unboxing experience. At the centre of this digital evolution is the Digital Product Passport (DPP) – a soon-to-be-standard offering full transparency into a product's lifecycle. 'For today's luxury consumer, knowledge is part of the reward,' said D'Arpizio. 'They want to know where something came from, how it was made, and what happens to it next. Packaging is now the portal to that story.' However, integrating sustainability as a core focus requires brands and packaging manufacturers to collaborate more closely in developing innovative and cost-effective alternatives. By engaging early in the process, both parties can align on creative solutions that not only meet environmental goals but also support the overall operating model more efficiently. Reducing packaging weight and volume is seen as a top priority for sustainable supply chains Reducing packaging volume and weight to optimise transport efficiency and minimise trips is viewed as the most significant factor in improving the sustainability of the supply chain, with 43 per cent of respondents to the survey ranking it as their top priority. Promoting reusable packaging to minimise waste and environmental impact, cited by 25 per cent, was the second top priority. Using lightweight, durable materials to prevent damage during transport ranked third, at 17 per cent, while adopting modular and stackable designs for better space and logistics management was selected by 10 per cent. The integration of smart technologies into packaging for real-time tracking and condition monitoring was considered the least significant, with only 5 per cent prioritising it. Regulation as a catalyst, not a constraint Beyond changing consumer expectations, evolving regulations – such as the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation – are accelerating the shifts detailed in the report. While regulation remains a central focus in discussions about industry transformation, what stands out prominently from the survey responses is the belief that customers are the true catalysts for change. The survey found half of respondents predicted that sustainable packaging will make up more than 30 per cent of industry sales within three years. The materials are improving, the digital tools are in place, and the customer appetite is growing. Forward-thinking luxury brands are not just adapting to these changes; they're using them to get ahead, the report finds. It suggests that the best-positioned companies are those that invest in material science, redesign supply chains, and work closely with packaging experts to create more meaningful – and more compliant – solutions. The report concludes that the future of luxury packaging isn't just lighter and smarter but increasingly is symbolic of the luxury industry's broader transformation toward transparency, responsibility, and deeper emotional connection.
Web Release
5 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
Luxury packaging goes greener, lighter and smarter—Bain & Company and Fedrigoni report
Packaging in the luxury sector is undergoing a quiet revolution—and it's getting smarter, greener, and more purposeful. A new report from Bain & Company, in collaboration with Fedrigoni Group, the global manufacturer of specialty papers, self-adhesive materials, and RFID (radio-frequency identification tags), reveals that sustainability is no longer a trade-off in the world of high-end packaging—it's becoming a competitive edge. In a compelling forecast, the report, Luxury Packaging: Resolving the Tension Between Creativity and Impact, projects that, within the next three years, more than 30% of all luxury packaging sales are expected to use sustainable solutions. The findings, unveiled today at 'Explore – Fedrigoni Creative Summit' event, held in Paris, draw on a survey of more than 500 executives across the luxury packaging value chain in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including designers, suppliers, converters, and leading brands. 'Packaging is evolving from a static container into a dynamic brand touchpoint,' said Claudia D'Arpizio, senior partner and global head of the Fashion and Luxury practice at Bain & Company. 'It's no longer about choosing between beauty and responsibility. Today, you can—and must—deliver both.' From indulgence to innovation Luxury has long been defined by sensory experiences—the feel of a hand-crafted box, the gleam of a bespoke bottle. But as environmental concerns and regulations reshape the industry, luxury brands are now reimagining their packaging not just as a container, but as a statement of values. Marco Nespolo, Fedrigoni Group CEO, said: 'Every day, through our close collaboration with brands, designers and converters, we witness the evolution of what luxury truly means: no longer just about aesthetics and exclusivity, but increasingly about responsibility, transparency and positive impact. In this context, packaging becomes a powerful cultural symbol—beauty that reflects values, and innovation that embraces sustainability. As manufacturers of premium papers, and self-adhesive and RFID materials, our role is to enable this transformation by delivering high-performance, creative and sustainable solutions. Being a true partner means co-developing with our clients an ecosystem where every material choice becomes a strategic, sustainable and narrative touchpoint.' The report emphasizes how leading brands are applying the 'four Rs' (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover) with a luxury twist—substituting traditional materials with advanced papers, biodegradable polymers, and even mycelium-based solutions (a sustainable alternative harnessing the root structure of fungi) that feel as exclusive as they are eco-conscious. Slimmer glass bottles and modular packaging designs are also helping brands cut emissions without compromising elegance. Aesthetic meets ethic Rather than restraining creativity, sustainability is unlocking a new frontier for luxury storytelling and customer connection. Packaging is now being viewed not as the end of the journey, but the beginning—especially in the digital realm. Think QR codes embedded in boxes that reveal a garment's origin story, smart labels that verify authenticity, and augmented reality overlays that enhance the unboxing experience. At the center of this digital evolution is the Digital Product Passport (DPP)—a soon-to-be-standard offering full transparency into a product's lifecycle. 'For today's luxury consumer, knowledge is part of the reward,' said D'Arpizio. 'They want to know where something came from, how it was made, and what happens to it next. Packaging is now the portal to that story.' However, integrating sustainability as a core focus requires brands and packaging manufacturers to collaborate more closely in developing innovative and cost-effective alternatives. By engaging early in the process, both parties can align on creative solutions that not only meet environmental goals but also support the overall operating model more efficiently. Reducing packaging weight and volume seen as top priority for sustainable supply chains Reducing packaging volume and weight to optimize transport efficiency and minimize trips is viewed as the most significant factor in improving the sustainability of the supply chain, with 43% of respondents to the survey ranking it as their top priority. Promoting reusable packaging to minimize waste and environmental impact, cited by 25%, was the second from top priority. Using lightweight, durable materials to prevent damage during transport ranked third, at 17%, while adopting modular and stackable designs for better space and logistics management was selected by 10%. The integration of smart technologies into packaging for real-time tracking and condition monitoring was considered the least significant, with only 5% prioritizing it. Regulation as a catalyst, not a constraint Beyond changing consumer expectations, evolving regulations—such as the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation—are accelerating the shifts detailed in the report. While regulation remains a central focus in discussions about industry transformation, what stands out prominently from the survey responses is the belief that customers are the true catalysts for change. The survey found half of respondents predicted that sustainable packaging will make up more than 30% of industry sales within three years. The materials are improving, the digital tools are in place, and the customer appetite is growing. Forward-thinking luxury brands are not just adapting to these changes; they're using them to get ahead, the report finds. It suggests that the best-positioned companies are those that invest in material science, redesign supply chains, and work closely with packaging experts to create more meaningful—and more compliant—solutions. The report concludes that the future of luxury packaging isn't just lighter and smarter but increasingly is symbolic of the luxury industry's broader transformation toward transparency, responsibility, and deeper emotional connection.
Japan Times
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Japan Times
Outgoing Renault boss de Meo set for CEO job at Gucci owner Kering: report
Renault CEO Luca de Meo is leaving the French carmaker to pursue a role outside the auto industry, the company said on Sunday; newspaper Le Figaro reported he would become the new chief executive of Gucci owner Kering. De Meo turned around the troubled French automaker in his five years at the helm, overhauling strategic alliance with Nissan spanning two decades and doubling down on hybrid motors while shifting toward electric vehicles. The Italian will replace Kering CEO Francois-Henri Pinault, whose family controls the heavily indebted luxury conglomerate and who has been leading it for 20 years, Le Figaro reported. Kering declined to comment on Le Figaro's report. Renault said in a statement, "Luca de Meo has expressed his decision to step down in order to take on new challenges outside the automotive sector." De Meo will leave Renault in mid-July, the automaker added. The French state holds a 15% stake in the company. If confirmed, de Meo's move to Kering, which has lately failed to convince stock market investors of its plans to turn around its Gucci label, would mark a dramatic change at the group. Pinault would remain Kering's chairman. Speculation about the leadership of the group, which also owns the Yves Saint Laurent and Balenciaga labels, accelerated last week after French media reported Pinault was poised to give up the CEO role. A person familiar with the thinking of Pinault said on Friday he was actively working on his succession, which includes splitting up his two roles to hire a new CEO. Kering shares have lost more than 60% of their value in the last two years, marked by a string of profit warnings and designer changes at Gucci, a former cash cow for the company and still its most important brand by sales and profits. De Meo's unexpected departure marks the second top-level exit from a European carmaker in six months, after Carlos Tavares resigned from Stellantis, at a time the sector in Europe is reeling from U.S. President Donald Trump's trade tariffs and fierce competition from Chinese rivals. De Meo joined Renault from Volkswagen in 2020, a year when the French carmaker reported record losses after a pandemic-induced hit to sales. In the years since, De Meo launched wide-ranging cost cuts that sharply reduced headcount and production capacity worldwide and turned the firm into a smaller but nimbler company. Renault's focus on European markets has largely shielded it from the upheaval tied to U.S. trade policies that German carmakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz are facing. Renault was one of only a few automakers not to issue a profit warning last fall. Its shares are up about 90% over the past five years — the best performing carmaker in Europe. Rival Stellantis is up 15% and VW is down 38%. Kering faces its own turnaround needs. Under Pinault's leadership, the group became a pure luxury player and enjoyed years of spectacular growth, largely thanks to Gucci. But since the COVID-19 pandemic, Kering has struggled to reinvigorate the brand and also took on more than €10 billion ($11.5 billion) in debt, which now exposes it to the risk of another credit downgrade. Kering unexpectedly cancelled an event with analysts planned for Monday, without saying why, a person familiar with the matter said.
ArabGT
5 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
2025 Nissan Patrol Review
Marking the debut of its seventh generation, the all-new 2025 Nissan Patrol represents a significant leap forward for the iconic SUV. Unlike a quick first-look, our ArabGT team chose to spend extended time with the vehicle, collecting real-world feedback from actual owners to offer a well-rounded, in-depth review. The result is a comprehensive look at a model that's not just refreshed—but redefined. Exterior Design While this review focuses primarily on performance and features, it's worth noting the 2025 Nissan Patrol's exterior matches its elevated mechanical evolution. The design aligns more with premium global SUVs, drawing comparisons to luxury American and German rivals in presence and quality. 2025 Nissan Patrol Interior Inside, the 2025 Patrol shows substantial upgrades in comfort and technology. The seats, redesigned using NASA-inspired Zero Gravity technology, offer superb comfort bolstered by excellent cooling, an effective massage system, and two generous 14.3-inch rear entertainment screens. Nissan's air conditioning system remains world-class, now enhanced with a Biometric Cooling feature that individually adjusts airflow based on each passenger's body temperature. The cabin is quieter and more refined, with better material quality throughout. Mechanical Specifications Two engine choices are available for the new Patrol. The flagship Platinum Full Option model features a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 425 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque. This engine offers robust performance and impressive daily driving dynamics. However, repeated high-performance demands revealed a drop in acceleration consistency, likely due to heat management software that prioritizes durability. The second option is a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6, producing 316 hp and 386 Nm of torque. Though more modest on paper, it proves reliable and consistent under load, making it ideal for off-road enthusiasts and those who prefer simpler, time-tested technology. Suspension The 2025 Patrol introduces Adaptive Air Suspension in higher trims, which dramatically enhances on-road stability and reduces body roll in corners. Front-seat comfort is excellent on highways and uneven surfaces. However, rear-seat passengers in the air-suspended variant reported discomfort over small bumps, hinting that the system still needs refinement. Conversely, models with traditional spring suspension offered a smoother experience for rear occupants, though they lack the dynamic advantages of air suspension during sharp turns. Transmission and Brakes A nine-speed automatic gearbox handles power delivery smoothly and efficiently. Shifts are seamless, and the system feels well-tuned for various driving conditions. The braking performance is also commendable, with responsive, confident stopping power and no noted faults. Safety and Driver Assistance The Patrol is equipped with an updated suite of safety and assistance technologies, including Nissan's ProPILOT system. While functional, the system can be overly sensitive—particularly around lane markings. Other features include front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag. A Head-Up Display and vastly improved 360-degree cameras further enhance safety and driver awareness. 2025 Nissan Patrol Price In the UAE, the naturally aspirated 2025 Patrol starts at $65,320 (AED 239,900), rising to $87,920 (AED 322,900). The twin-turbo version begins at $81,120 (AED 297,900) and goes up to $105,900 (AED 388,900), depending on trim and options. 2025 Nissan Patrol Images Gallery
Newsweek
12-06-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Number of Areas With Luxury Homes Under $1 Million Collapses
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The number of U.S. metropolitan areas where buyers can purchase a luxury home for less than $1 million has shrunk from 30 in 2020 to only seven today, according to a new Redfin report, as home prices have skyrocketed over the past five years. Redfin defines luxury homes as those in the top 5 percent of their respective metro area by value, based on a rolling 12-month period. Why It Matters A chronic lack of inventory across the U.S. has driven up prices in both the traditional housing market and the luxury market, especially after low interest rates during the pandemic sparked a nationwide homebuying frenzy. The annual price of a single-family home in the U.S. luxury marketplace grew by 7.6 percent between 2023 and 2024, twice the rate of the traditional market at 3 percent, according to the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program's 2025 Trend Report. Luxury condo prices grew by 6.5 percent in the same time frame, compared to 3 percent in the traditional market. Since 2020, according to Redfin, the median sale price of a U.S. luxury home has gone up by a staggering 88 percent. For those unconstrained by higher costs, the recent surge in luxury home prices might not have made a difference, but for aspirational luxury buyers, the recent price hike has made a difference between purchasing their dream home or having to delay their plans. According to a recent report by Redfin, pending sales of luxury homes collapsed to the lowest level in a decade in April, as volatility in the financial markets added uncertainty to wealthy peoples' investments. What To Know The typical price of a U.S. luxury home was $1,348,065 in April, according to Redfin data, up 6.5 percent from a year earlier, but down slightly from the record high set in March. There are only seven major U.S. metros where buyers can find luxury homes for less than $1 million. These are, in order of affordability: Detroit, Michigan: $753,851 Cleveland, Ohio: $757,046 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: $846,715 Indianapolis, Indiana: $914,276 St. Louis, Missouri: $914,276 Cincinnati, Ohio: $931,145 San Antonio, Texas: $957,854 Despite currently having the most affordable luxury homes in the country, prices in these cities still surged significantly over the past five years. In 2020, the median sale price of a luxury home was $532,706 in Detroit (up 81 percent); $531,461 in Cleveland (up 59 percent); $618,837 in Pittsburgh (up 53.2 percent); $616,613 in Indianapolis (up 65.3 percent); $677,578 in St. Louis (up 51.9 percent); $600,709 in Cincinnati (up 70.2 percent); and $656,438 in San Antonio (up 68.7 percent). A home listed for $10 million sits on a lot on April 18, 2024, in Miami. A home listed for $10 million sits on a lot on April 18, 2024, in Cleveland and Pittsburgh were also the most affordable homebuying metro markets overall, with the median sale price of a typical home in these cities at $195,000, $235,000 and $250,000 respectively in April. What People Are Saying Redfin senior economist Sheharyar Bokhari said in a news report: "The Rust Belt's relative affordability has preserved opportunities for luxury buyers that have all but disappeared in much of the country. "These metros haven't seen as much explosive investor demand or speculative buying, which has helped keep prices grounded. Buyers can get historic charm, large lots, and upscale finishes—often in walkable, tree-lined neighborhoods—for a small fraction of what a similar home would cost in cities like San Francisco or New York." What Happens Next In April, the luxury market suffered the biggest decline in pending home sales, at -9.9 percent year-over-year, since August 2023, according to Redfin. Bokhari said "many luxury buyers are adopting a wait-and-see approach because of volatility across financial markets and shifting tariff policies." But growing inventory in the luxury market is also starting to shift its dynamics toward buyers. In April, the number of luxury homes on the market jumped by 7 percent compared to a year earlier, the highest supply since 2021.
