S.Coups Named Boss Ambassador, China’s Q1 Auto Exports Climb, and Saudi Aramco Partners with BYD

Boss Names Kpop Star S.Coups as Global Brand Ambassador

Hugo Boss announced on Monday the appointment of S.Coups, leader of the K-pop group Seventeen, as its new global brand ambassador. The collaboration will see S.Coups featured in Boss campaigns and styled in signature looks for public appearances. Known for his leadership and distinctive style, S.Coups has contributed to Seventeen’s global success. Hugo Boss recently reported a 3 percent increase in sales, reaching €4.3 billion in 2024.

Nio Delays Firefly EV Launch in Europe to Q3 Due to Expansion Challenges

Chinese electric vehicle maker Nio has postponed the European launch of its Firefly electric vehicle to the third quarter, citing difficulties in expanding its sales and service networks. Initially set for the first half of 2024, the Firefly brand was introduced as a competitor to Smart and Mini. Nio plans to strengthen its presence in Europe by partnering with local firms and will also offer a right-hand drive version of the Firefly by October. Additionally, the company is aiming for a global expansion, with sales expected in 20 countries, including Singapore and the UK.

China’s Q1 Auto Exports Rise 16 Percent Year-on-Year

China’s automobile exports reached 1.54 million units in the first quarter of 2024, marking a 16 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to a statement from the China Passenger Car Association. In March alone, exports totaled 570,000 units, also reflecting a 16 percent year-on-year growth. The strong export performance underscores the continued expansion of China’s automotive industry in global markets.

Swiss Watch Exports Show Mixed Performance in March and Q1 2024

Swiss watch exports totaled 2.13 billion Swiss francs in March, marking a 1.5 percent year-on-year increase. However, for the first quarter of 2024, overall exports declined by 1.1 percent. Key markets like the U.S. (+13.7 percent) and the UK (+10.6 percent) saw growth, while exports to China and Hong Kong continued to decline. In terms of materials, steel watches saw the largest increase in export volume (+4.2 percent), while gold and steel watches showed mixed results. The export of watches priced below 200 Swiss francs dropped, while those priced above 500 Swiss francs showed positive growth.

Estée Lauder Partners with Ladurée for Limited-Edition Macaron Makeup Collection

Estée Lauder has teamed up with the iconic French dessert brand Ladurée to launch a limited-edition “Macaron” makeup collection. The line features cushion foundations, lipsticks, and lip oils, all designed to be lightweight and delicate. Inspired by Ladurée’s signature macaron colors, the products’ packaging incorporates macaron textures and folds, blending the romance of French pastries with the artistry of cosmetics, making it a perfect match for the spring season.

Li Ning Launches Pop-Up to Celebrate Earth Day

In celebration of Earth Day, Li Ning has launched a limited-time pop-up event, LN Nature from April 20 to April 22. The event invites consumers to explore a space dedicated to environmental sustainability, showcasing the brand’s commitment to natural aesthetics and sustainable practices. The space is divided into four key areas, highlighting the use of bio-based materials, water-saving dyeing techniques, and recycling initiatives. Interactive activities like DIY bio-based shoelace and plant-dyeing workshops further engage visitors in sustainable practices. Through this immersive experience, Li Ning aims to bring sustainability from concept to action under the theme “Look Further, Run Further.”

Saudi Aramco Partners with BYD to Develop New Energy Vehicle Technologies

Saudi Aramco has signed a joint development agreement with BYD to collaborate on advancing new energy vehicle technologies. The partnership, led by Saudi Aramco’s subsidiary SATC, focuses on the research and development of low-carbon fuels and high-efficiency powertrains. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 goal to increase the share of electric vehicles to 30 percent. Despite facing infrastructure challenges, such as a limited number of charging stations, the collaboration aims to drive innovation in the electric vehicle sector and contribute to global climate efforts.

Mytheresa to Complete YNAP Acquisition on April 23

Mytheresa is set to finalize its acquisition of Yoox Net-a-Porter (YNAP) from Richemont on April 23, 2025, marking a key step in the development of LuxExperience, a global luxury e-commerce group. The transaction follows the European Commission’s approval and will lead to the operational integration of Mytheresa, Net-a-Porter, Mr Porter, Yoox, and The Outnet. The group aims to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and achieve €4 billion in GMV, with a focus on backend harmonization and brand-specific strategies. Full integration will take 24 to 36 months.