Erke Names New Ambassador, SMCP Reports Q1 Growth and Kering Unveils Water Strategy

Crocs and Swarovski Launch New Collaboration

Crocs has teamed up with Austrian crystal brand Swarovski for a new high-end collection. The designs reinterpret classic Crocs silhouettes with crystal embellishments and nature-inspired elements. Highlights include a pearl-white clog with iridescent dragonfly wing motifs and a dual-layer whale-themed shoe featuring dew-like crystals. The collection launches on May 7 through Crocs’ official online store and at the Nanjing Deji Plaza location.

Erke Names Actor Yu Shi as Global Ambassador

Chinese sportswear company Erke announced actor Yu Shi as its new global brand ambassador, launching a campaign to promote its apparel line. The collaboration emphasizes cultural storytelling and youth empowerment. Erke also introduced in-store promotions nationwide, offering limited-edition cards and gifts with purchases. The brand aims to connect traditional Chinese culture with the energy of a new generation.

SMCP Reports Q1 2025 Sales Growth Driven by France and EMEA

French fashion group SMCP reported Q1 2025 sales of 297 million euros, up 2.6 percent organically, led by growth in France and the EMEA region. Sandro sales rose 4.2 percent, while Maje and Other brands saw more modest gains. The group added new points of sale in Eastern Europe and India, despite store closures in Asia and Canada. APAC performance was impacted by previous network adjustments in China.

China’s May Day Concert Tourism Will Boost Travel and Hospitality Spending

According to a Meituan Travel report, over 100 large-scale concerts and music festivals are scheduled across China during the 2025 May Day holiday, expected to attract over 2 million attendees and drive more than RMB 2 billion in related spending. Top destinations include Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, with outbound travel focused on Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. Bookings for concert-linked travel products and early hotel reservations have significantly increased, especially among post-1995 users.

Former Alibaba Executive Appointed CEO of Shangri-La China

Chinese hotel group Shangri-La has appointed former Alibaba CMO Dong Benhong as its new Chief Marketing Officer and CEO of China, according to the company’s website. Dong joined the group in 2025 and now oversees global marketing and communications, along with China operations. His past roles include leadership positions at Alibaba, VML China, P&G, and L’Oréal.

Decathlon Considers Sale of 30 Percent Stake in China Business

French sports retailer Decathlon is reportedly in talks to sell around 30 percent of its China business, with several potential investors expressing early interest. The company is working with an advisor, though the final stake size remains under discussion. Valuation of the China unit could exceed $1 billion. Decathlon, with over 200 stores in China, may also consider alternative strategies to support its continued expansion in the market.

Kering Unveils Water Strategy Aiming for Net Positive Impact by 2050

Kering Group has announced a new water stewardship strategy, pledging to achieve a net positive water impact by 2050 and measurable improvements in key regions by 2035. The plan includes sustainable material sourcing, improved water management across operations and supply chains, and the establishment of Water Resilience Labs in 10 priority river basins. The first lab will launch in Italy’s Arno Basin in 2025. The initiative addresses water, climate, and biodiversity challenges through a holistic, science-based approach.

Septwolves Reports Q1 Net Profit Growth Despite Revenue Decline

Chinese apparel company Septwolves posted a net profit of RMB 150 million in Q1 2025, up 40.6 percent year-on-year, while revenue fell 5.5 percent to RMB 844 million. Core net profit excluding non-recurring items dropped 36.4 percent to RMB 38.65 million. Operating cash flow declined by 20.7 percent to RMB 108 million. The company continues to focus on product structure optimization, multi-channel sales strategies, and financial initiatives including a share repurchase plan to enhance shareholder value.

Pelliot Files for Hong Kong IPO

Chinese outdoor apparel company Pelliot has filed for an IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with proceeds aimed at boosting R&D, branding, and digital capabilities. Founded in 2012, the company reported strong revenue growth from RMB 379 million in 2022 to RMB 1.77 billion in 2024. Its product range spans performance-focused clothing, supported by proprietary technologies and global material partners. Tencent recently acquired a 10.7 percent stake, becoming the fourth-largest shareholder.