Fila Partners with Maison Kitsuné, Mugler Appoints New Creative Director and Atour Reports Strong Growth
Mugler Appoints New Creative Director
Mugler has named Miguel Castro Freitas as its new creative director, succeeding Casey Cadwallader, who led the brand since 2018. Castro Freitas, previously associated with brands like Sportmax, Dries Van Noten, and Christian Dior Couture, expressed his excitement to bring his vision to the iconic fashion house.
Apple to Launch Chinese Version of AI
Apple has officially released the iOS 18.4 RC candidate, with the full update expected next week. The key feature of this update is the introduction of Apple Intelligence in Chinese, which will offer smart writing enhancements, context-based suggestions for emails and messages, image recognition and editing and real-time audio transcription. The update also brings 5G-A technology, enabling peak network speeds of up to 1400Mbps for iPhone 13 to iPhone 16 models (including 16e). The current English version already includes features like notification summaries and cross-app text search.
Saint Angelo Acquires Woolrich’s Global IP (Excluding Europe) and Plans Shanghai R&D Center
Chinese menswear company Saint Angelo announced the acquisition of Woolrich’s intellectual property rights outside Europe for approximately €50.83 million (RMB 3.8 billion). The deal grants Saint Angelo ownership of Woolrich-related trademarks, domain names, and copyrights in 26 countries and regions, including China, the U.S., Canada, Japan, and Australia. Woolrich retains its European IP and will continue its operations there. Saint Angelo also signed a five-year agreement with Woolrich Group for product procurement and brand consulting. The company plans to establish an R&D center and Yangtze River Delta headquarters in Shanghai, investing RMB 3-4 billion to support its global expansion strategy.
Fila and Maison Kitsuné Unveils Collaboration
Fila has teamed up with the French fashion and art brand Maison Kitsuné to launch a colorful collaboration featuring vibrant tees with playful fox motifs, perfect for summer outfits. To showcase the collection, Fila has enlisted brand ambassador Huang Jingyu, who modeled the new pieces, adding to the energetic vibe of the campaign. The collaboration is also celebrated with a pop-up space at Fila Icona in Guangzhou Taikoo Hui, where Huang Jingyu met fans and invited everyone to embrace a relaxed summer style.
Chagee Files for IPO
Chagee, a Yunnan-based bubble tea brand, has filed for an IPO. The company reported a 173 percent year-over-year increase in GMV, reaching RMB 29.5 billion in 2024, with revenue at RMB 12.41 billion and net profit at RMB 2.52 billion. By Q4 2024, its global store count had expanded to 6,440. The brand’s focus on Tea Latte products has driven growth, with 91 percent of its China market GMV coming from this category. With 156 overseas stores and plans to expand further, Chagee is accelerating its global presence, including its first North American store in Los Angeles.
JNBY’s Childrenswear Brand Collaborates with Art Institutions for Autism
JNBY’s Childrenswear Brand, jnby by JNBY, in partnership with BY ART MATTERS and the Tianmuli Art Museum, hosted its latest “Art Classroom” event in collaboration with the Xingjuexing Social Work Service Center in Hangzhou. The event, marking the official launch of JNBY’s research and education base, invited art therapist Pan Min to lead children with autism in an art session focused on space exploration. Since 2022, JNBY has worked with local organizations to offer art programs for children with autism, providing a platform for self-expression and helping these children connect with the world around them.
M Stand and AromeManpo Launch New Fragrance-Inspired Collaboration
Chinese coffee brand M Stand has teamed up with the skincare brand AromeManpo for a new collection inspired by the delicate fragrance of tuberoses. The collaboration includes the “Tuberose Latte,” blending the fresh floral notes of tuberoses with rich nutty chocolate and smooth tea undertones. Additionally, a “Tuberose Scented Body Oil” is released to complement the experience. This partnership offers a sensory escape through both coffee and skincare rituals, merging fragrance and flavor for daily moments of indulgence.
Atour Reports Strong Growth Driven by Hotel Expansion and Retail Success
Atour Group reported a strong financial performance for 2024, with revenue reaching RMB 7.25 billion, a 55.3 percent year-on-year increase, and net profit rising by 44.6 percent. The company’s growth was driven by its expanding hotel network and booming retail business, with retail sales up 126%. Atour’s “pillow and bedding” products have become a key revenue driver, reflecting the growing market potential of China’s sleep economy. Despite challenges in the hotel industry, Atour plans to continue expanding its presence in mid-range and high-end segments, while further developing its retail portfolio.
