Valentine’s day and Chinese New Year’s are traditionally the first two sales milestones of the year, an overview of the luxury industry’s pulse. And this year, both dates were under particular scrutiny. Can we finally talk about a recovery in 2021?

To better understand the technological battle playing out on the other side of the world, Luna Rossa has agreed to let Luxury Tribune in on a few secrets.

After a year-long break in their growth, LVMH and Kering have to answer challenges linked to recovery, while facing changes in the luxury fashion sector. To do so, their fashion brands seem to have opted for opposite strategies.

Even though more and more counterfeit products are being seized at customs all the time, and despite the boom in digital certificates for luxury products, counterfeit sales remain a growing problem in the luxury sector. Even more worrying: purchasing fake products online is actually appealing to the younger generations.

In the age of transparency, consumers are looking for meaning. Increasingly, luxury brands are obliging by integrating social engagement into their storytelling.

Philanthropy has rapidly become a quick fix to the Covid-19 pandemic. Companies, foundations and other private donors have redirected important amounts of money in favor of the healthcare sector. As well as towards the poorest.

On the auction market, 2020 showed mixed results. Led by the charismatic Aurel Bacs, the house Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo is however holding its own, with a record year in the watch sector. A performance that contrasts with a struggling watchmaking industry.

While blockchain is increasingly used as a certification tool, it still isn’t sufficient enough against counterfeit goods. Luxury brands also need to ensure a solid client relationship combined with strong values.

Watchfinder &Co, leader in pre-owned watches, is multiplying partial exchange programs with brands. Its cofounder Matt Bowling sees here the best option for watchmaking to increase its new watch sales.

In order to adapt, the tourism sector is now focusing on new formulas. Long stays at unbeatable prices and new isolated destinations for maximum safety.

Shortly before the start of the first regatta of the America’s Cup, the captain and skipper of the Luna Rossa Max Sirena boat gives his impressions.

The role of merchandising has been greatly affected by Covid-19 restrictions. New strategies are emerging to strengthen the interrelationship between a physical shop and digital platforms.

Doraemon, Totoro, Donald Duck or Pikachu, cartoon characters are the new safety blankets of luxury brands. By incorporating them in collections, they aim at attracting the Z generation, as well as adults that still are big children.