L’Oréal Showcases Beauty Tech at VivaTech, Miniso Expands UK Presence and Khaite Opens First Boutique in China
L’Oréal Showcases Latest Beauty Tech at VivaTech 2025
At the 2025 Viva Technology event in Paris, L’Oréal presented its largest-ever lineup of beauty tech innovations, highlighting AI-powered skincare diagnostics, vertical farming for sustainable ingredients, and tools like the YSL Hyper Look Studio and the Beauty Genius chatbot on WhatsApp. The group also introduced longevity-based skincare science and partnered with startups across North Asia, marking a new stage in its open innovation ecosystem.
Chow Tai Fook Posts FY2025 Profit Growth
Chow Tai Fook reported a 9.8 percent year-on-year increase in operating profit to HK$14.75 billion for FY2025, while revenue dropped 17.5 percent to HK$89.66 billion due to macroeconomic pressures and high gold prices. Net profit declined 9 percent to HK$5.92 billion, but net margin improved to 6.7 percent. Growth was driven by stronger margins from fixed-price gold products and expanded sales channels, including new flagship stores and digital platforms. The company continues its five-year brand transformation, focusing on product innovation, digitalization, and targeting younger consumers.
Starbucks Launches Summer Collaboration with Disney’s Zootopia in China
On June 17, Starbucks launched a summer campaign in China in collaboration with Disney’s Zootopia, marking their first-ever partnership. The initiative features three new iced shaken teas inspired by the film’s characters, alongside themed merchandise, masks, and limited-time store activations. From June 19, 36 themed locations, including a flagship in Beijing’s Taikoo Li, will open nationwide. The campaign reflects Starbucks’ continued focus on non-coffee offerings and full-day beverage scenarios.
Proya Appoints Isabel Wang to Lead Product Development and Brand Incubation
Chinese beauty brand Proya has named Isabel Wang, a former executive at L’Oréal, Beiersdorf and Amorepacific as Head of Product Development and Deputy GM of Brand Incubation. Wang brings over two decades of experience in global beauty firms and is tasked with developing a brand innovation model that integrates international frameworks like DMI and BD with Proya’s agile local operations. Her appointment reflects Proya’s broader strategy to strengthen its management team and support its global growth vision.
Khaite Opens First In-shop in China at Réel Mall, Shanghai
New York fashion label Khaite has launched its first in-shop in China, located in the heart of Shanghai’s Jing’an district at Réel Mall. Founded by creative director Catherine Holstein in 2016, Khaite offers womenswear and accessories rooted in a design philosophy shaped by cultural references and everyday encounters. The new space reflects the brand’s architectural identity created by Griffin Frazen, centered around a circular layout designed to guide a tactile exploration of the brand’s visual language.
Chanel Unveils “Reach for the Stars” High Jewellery Collection in Kyoto
Chanel’s High Jewellery Creative Studio has launched the “Reach for the Stars” collection, designed by Patrice Leguéreau. Drawing inspiration from Gabrielle Chanel’s Hollywood-era vision, the collection highlights comet, wing, and lion motifs symbolizing freedom and strength. Featuring yellow diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and intricate goldwork, the pieces debuted in Kyoto, Japan.
Miniso Expands UK Presence with New Store at Liberty Romford
Chinese lifestyle retailer Miniso has opened a permanent 2,270 sq ft store at Liberty Romford, following the success of its December pop-up. The shop features everyday goods and character-themed products from Hello Kitty, Disney, Minecraft, and more. This marks one of three UK openings in June, alongside new stores in Glasgow’s Braehead Centre and Luton Point.
Vince Reports Q1 Loss Amid Store Closures and Brand Restructuring
Vince posted a Q1 net loss of $4.8 million, down from $4.4 million in profit a year earlier, with adjusted net loss at $3.3 million. Net sales fell 2.1 percent to $57.9 million, impacted by store closures and remodels. The company completed the wind down of Rebecca Taylor and exited the Parker brand. Vince expects Q2 sales to be flat to down 3 percent, with no full-year guidance due to tariff uncertainties.
