What: The Hong Kong-based group Bluebell is strengthening its position in China through the duty-free market in Hainan Island after completing the acquisition of Star Brands Travel Retail.

Why it is important: The acquisition makes Bluebell Group the sole owner of travel retail operator, Star Brands Travel Retail, in Hainan’s duty-free hub, an important location for luxury shopping in China.

While tax-free shopping has been allowed on Hainan Island since 2011, its activity has boomed since 2020 becoming the preferred destination of Chinese shoppers, deprived of international travel since the pandemic. This trend has continued and accentuated, allowing many houses to achieve strong increases in the region, making Hainan Island a strategic location for the luxury industry.

Star Brands Travel Retail operates 14 brands, has 50 employees, and has seen retail sales under its management grow 300% in 2022 compared to 2021.

Bluebell Group fully acquires Star Brands Travel Retail