What: Chalhoub Group marks its 70th anniversary by highlighting its evolution from a single boutique in Damascus to a leading luxury retail empire in the Middle East.

Why it is important: This milestone reflects how family leadership and strategic partnerships have driven sustained growth and innovation in Middle Eastern luxury retail.

Chalhoub Group’s 70th anniversary serves as a testament to its remarkable transformation from modest beginnings in Damascus to becoming the Middle East’s foremost luxury retail group. The company’s journey has been shaped by resilience, adaptability, and a series of strategic relocations in response to regional upheavals, ultimately establishing Dubai as its permanent base. Key to its ascent has been the seamless transition of leadership across three generations, each bringing renewed vision and energy. The group’s ability to forge enduring partnerships with global luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Sephora has not only expanded its portfolio but also redefined the region’s retail landscape. Innovation has remained central, with the launch of experiential retail concepts and proprietary brands, ensuring continued relevance amid evolving consumer expectations. As the group enters a new era under Michael Chalhoub, its commitment to digital transformation and local market engagement positions it to maintain its leadership in a dynamic and competitive sector.

IADS Notes: The Chalhoub Group’s evolution mirrors the broader rise of the Middle East as a luxury retail hub, with recent leadership transitions and digital innovation accelerating growth, particularly in Saudi Arabia and through omnichannel strategies. The group’s focus on quality, customer experience, and strategic partnerships, as highlighted in WWD (October 2025, May 2025), BoF (May 2025), RLC (September 2025), and Emirates Woman (March 2025), underscores its resilience and ability to adapt to both market opportunities and challenges.

Chalhoub Group at 70: Timeline

Chalhoub Group: A Luxury Dynasty, 70 Years in the Making

What: Galeries Lafayette is reshaping its global strategy through major investments, targeted market entries, and a renewed emphasis on digital and physical retail integration.

Why it is important: Galeries Lafayette’s evolution highlights the importance of targeted investment and market adaptation.

Galeries Lafayette, under the leadership of Nicolas Houzé, is redefining its position in the global retail landscape by combining bold international expansion with substantial investments in its flagship stores and a strong focus on digital transformation. The group’s entry into India, in partnership with Aditya Birla, marks a significant milestone, positioning Galeries Lafayette as a pioneer in a rapidly evolving luxury market. Simultaneously, the company is rethinking its approach in China and accelerating its presence in the Middle East, while remaining cautious about overextending into new territories. In Paris, a €400 million renovation of the Boulevard Haussmann flagship and further upgrades across the network have restored sales to pre-pandemic levels and reinforced the importance of experiential retail. The group’s streamlined focus on core categories such as watches, jewelry, and beauty, along with the integration of advanced digital tools and a growing e-commerce platform, demonstrates a commitment to adapting to shifting consumer behaviors and market dynamics. This multifaceted strategy positions Galeries Lafayette as a model for department store resilience and innovation.

IADS Notes: Galeries Lafayette’s recent moves, including the India entry and flagship renovations, are consistent with trends reported in October 2025 ("French luxe retailer Galeries Lafayette set for India entry," India Economic Times; "Aditya Birla celebrates their partnership with Galeries Lafayette by opening the Mumbai store," Luxury Tribune) and July 2025 ("Galeries Lafayette Haussmann's growth and strategy," Fashion Network), where international expansion, experiential retail, and digital transformation were highlighted as key growth drivers. The partnership with Aditya Birla and the appointment of a new e-commerce director in January 2025 ("Galeries Lafayette hires a new e-commerce director," Fashion Network) further illustrate the group’s commitment to market adaptation and omnichannel excellence, as seen in recent analyses from early and late 2025 ("Galeries Lafayette’s Chief Buying Officer details the company strategy," Le Figaro, February 2025).

Galeries Lafayette’s Nicolas Houzé talks big investment bets as ‘boring retail is dead’

What: Manor awards the Prix Culturel Manor 2026 to Kaspar Ludwig, reinforcing its commitment to contemporary art and brand differentiation.

Why it is important: This initiative aligns with Manor’s broader strategy of using cultural engagement to enhance brand image and attract new customer segments.

The Prix Culturel Manor 2026 has been awarded to Kaspar Ludwig, a sculptor recognised for his inventive transformation of everyday objects into playful and reflective installations. Ludwig’s background in Carrare and Basel informs his focus on craftsmanship and material beauty, resulting in works that surprise and engage audiences. As the sixth and final laureate for the 2026 edition, Ludwig’s selection highlights Manor’s enduring dedication to nurturing emerging Swiss artists. Established over forty years ago by Philippe Nordmann, the Prix Culturel Manor has become a prominent launchpad for young talent, demonstrating how Manor weaves cultural initiatives into its retail identity. By honouring artists like Ludwig, Manor not only supports the contemporary art scene but also strengthens its brand, connecting with customers through shared cultural values and innovative experiences. This integration of retail and art continues to distinguish Manor in a competitive landscape, reinforcing its reputation as a progressive and community-focused retailer.

IADS Notes: Manor’s cultural engagement, as seen with the Prix Culturel Manor, is closely tied to its strategic evolution. In June 2025, Manor generated significant excitement through experiential events like the Labubu collectable launch (Cominmag.ch, June 2025). The CHF 200 million investment plan announced in March 2025 (Zone Bourse, March 2025) and CEO Roland Armbruster’s emphasis on digital transformation and regional customisation (PME, April 2025) further illustrate how cultural initiatives are integrated into Manor’s broader strategy. The appointment of a Chief Digital Transformation Officer (ICT Journal, March 2025) and the focus on flagship store modernisation (20mn, August 2025) reinforce Manor’s commitment to brand modernisation and customer engagement throughout 2025.

Manor’s Prix Culturel 2026 highlights its strategy of integrating cultural initiatives 

What: Hendrik Pannenborg is appointed Chief Real Estate Officer at Breuninger, succeeding Prof. Michael Cesarz as of January 2026.

Why it is important: This leadership change ensures continuity in Breuninger’s real estate strategy, supporting ongoing growth and innovation across its omnichannel operations.

Breuninger has announced the appointment of Hendrik Pannenborg as Chief Real Estate Officer, effective January 2026, following the retirement of Prof. Michael Cesarz. Pannenborg, who has been with Breuninger for over thirteen years and most recently served as Director Real Estate, will now oversee all aspects of the company’s real estate operations, including the management and development of Breuninger’s diverse portfolio of locations and major projects such as the new mobility hub in Stuttgart. This transition underscores Breuninger’s commitment to continuity and strategic growth, leveraging Pannenborg’s deep familiarity with the company and its projects. Under Cesarz’s leadership, Breuninger completed significant initiatives, including the transformation of flagship stores and the expansion of logistics capabilities, which have contributed to the retailer’s strong market position. Breuninger’s focus on innovative real estate development, combined with its omnichannel approach and customer-centric services, continues to set high standards in the European premium retail sector.

IADS Notes: The appointment of Hendrik Pannenborg as Chief Real Estate Officer at Breuninger marks a pivotal moment in the company’s ongoing transformation, reinforcing its strategy of blending tradition with innovation and maintaining leadership continuity. This transition comes as Breuninger continues to excel in both digital and physical retail, achieving 6% growth and €1.6 billion in GMV for 2024, with 60% of sales generated online, as reported in July 2025. The opening of the Hamburg flagship in April 2025 and the expansion into Switzerland and the Netherlands in November 2025 underscore the brand’s commitment to experiential shopping, urban development, and omnichannel integration. Breuninger’s focus on localized e-commerce, loyalty programs, and immersive community events, such as the partnership with Monocle in September 2025, highlights its ability to adapt to evolving consumer expectations while driving sustainable growth. The leadership transition ensures that Breuninger’s real estate strategy will continue to support its role as a premium European retailer, fostering vibrant urban environments and innovative retail experiences

Hendrik Pannenborg will become Breuninger’s Chief Real Estate Officer

What: Manor Food Monthey reopens with a market-inspired design, expanded homemade and local product offerings, and enhanced in-store experiences.

Why it is important: Manor’s strategy reflects a broader retail shift toward localisation, experiential shopping, and fresh, differentiated offerings.

The newly renovated Manor Food Monthey transforms grocery shopping into a vibrant, sensory experience reminiscent of a traditional market. With a strong emphasis on local sourcing, the store collaborates with dozens of regional producers, ensuring a wide selection of fresh, high-quality products that celebrate local flavours and craftsmanship. The expansion of “fait maison” offerings, from artisanal breads and pastries to premium take-away meals, underscores Manor’s commitment to authenticity and freshness. Each department, from the colourful produce section to the premium butcher and fish counters, is designed to invite discovery and indulgence. Enhanced by personalised services, in-store tastings, and opportunities to meet local producers, the store fosters a sense of community and engagement. This approach not only elevates the shopping experience but also aligns with evolving consumer preferences for transparency, quality, and meaningful connections with food and its origins. Manor Food Monthey stands as a model for modern retail, blending tradition with innovation to create a compelling, customer-centric environment.

IADS Notes: The renovation of Manor Food Monthey exemplifies Manor’s broader transformation strategy, as the retailer invests heavily in modernizing its stores and prioritizing high-potential locations, a direction confirmed by its CHF 200 million investment plan highlighted in August 2025 (“Manor trades a supermarket to Migros to open a larger one,” 20mn) and April 2025 (“Roland Armbruster interview: 'we are shifting gears',” PME). This renewed focus on local sourcing, artisanal “fait maison” offerings, and sensory-rich environments aligns with Manor’s shift toward regional differentiation and food innovation, as the company reallocates resources to strengthen its presence in Latin regions and optimise market segmentation, as seen in August 2025 (“Manor sells 3 German-speaking side’s food departments to Coop,” VermögensZentrum). The Monthey store’s experiential approach, including in-store events and personalized services, mirrors successful engagement strategies seen in Manor’s pop culture activations (June 2025, “Manor creates the buzz thanks to Labubu dolls,” Cominmag.ch) and is echoed by international trends such as Wegmans’ integration of fine dining and immersive retail experiences (August 2025, “Wegmans' Next Door brings fine dining to Astor Place store,” Grocery Business). Collectively, these developments underscore how Manor and leading retailers are responding to evolving consumer expectations by blending local partnerships, fresh product curation, and memorable, multi-sensory shopping environments to drive customer loyalty and market relevance.

Manor supermarket in Monthey reopens

What: Siam Paragon Retail has won the Thailand Corporate Excellence Award 2025 for the second consecutive year, marking its 20th anniversary with a focus on management excellence and customer experience.

Why it is important: This achievement demonstrates how Thai retail leaders are setting new international standards through innovation and customer experience, as seen in recent industry developments.

Siam Paragon Retail’s consecutive win at the Thailand Corporate Excellence Awards 2025, coinciding with its 20th anniversary, highlights its sustained commitment to elevating Thai retail to international standards. The company’s success is rooted in a philosophy of constantly enhancing the customer experience, supported by strategic partnerships with Siam Piwat Group and The Mall Group. These collaborations have fostered a culture of innovation, integrating data-driven and tech-enabled strategies such as AI-powered hyper-personalisation and flexible operational management. Siam Paragon’s approach extends beyond traditional retail, focusing on experiential value design and aligning products, services, and activities with evolving customer lifestyles. The brand’s ability to generate the highest revenue per square meter in the country is attributed to its strategic retail engines and a continuous learning culture among its teams. As Siam Paragon celebrates two decades, it is not only commemorating past achievements but also launching new strategies to expand omnichannel experiences and further elevate service standards, ensuring its position as a model for retail experience innovation in the region. 

IADS Notes: Siam Paragon’s recognition at the Thailand Corporate Excellence Awards 2025 aligns with its major 20th anniversary revamp in November 2025, which set new standards for experiential value and digital innovation. The Mall Group’s technology awards in September 2025 and the sector’s embrace of AI-driven hyper-personalisation in March 2025 reflect a broader industry shift toward tech-enabled, customer-centric retail. The evolution toward experiential retail, noted in January 2025, and The Mall Group’s strategic wins in March 2025, further validate the sector’s commitment to innovation and leadership in Southeast Asia.

The Mall Group’s Siam Paragon Retail wins Thailand Corporate Excellence Royal Award 

What: Breuninger’s focus on experiential retail, seamless online-offline integration, and curated premium assortments sets it apart as a modern destination for fashion and lifestyle.

Why it is important: Breuninger’s approach exemplifies how legacy retailers can thrive by combining tradition with digital innovation and experiential retail.

Breuninger, established in 1881, has transformed itself into a leading European fashion and lifestyle retailer by harmonizing its historic roots with a commitment to innovation. The company invests continuously in digitalization, design, and service quality, ensuring that customers experience a seamless journey across both physical stores and digital platforms. Breuninger’s stores are more than retail spaces—they are destinations where fashion, gastronomy, and culture intersect, creating vibrant environments that encourage customers to linger and engage. This experiential approach is complemented by a curated selection of premium and luxury products, personal shopping, and made-to-measure services, all designed to inspire and delight. The retailer’s omnichannel strategy allows customers to move effortlessly between online and offline touchpoints, maintaining a consistent standard of excellence. By positioning fashion as a form of personal expression and focusing on individuality, authenticity, and quality, Breuninger continues to set benchmarks for customer experience and loyalty in the premium retail sector.

IADS Notes: Breuninger’s evolution in 2025 is a prime example of how legacy retailers can thrive by blending tradition with innovation. As reported by Fashion United in July 2025, Breuninger achieved 6% growth and €1.6 billion in GMV for 2024, with 60% of sales coming from online channels and profitability across all markets, underscoring the effectiveness of its integrated digital and physical strategy. Retail News in November 2025 highlighted Breuninger’s expansion into Switzerland and the Netherlands with localized e-commerce and loyalty programs, advancing its omnichannel approach and reinforcing its position as a premium European retailer. The April 2025 opening of the Hamburg flagship, covered by Horston, showcased the brand’s commitment to experiential shopping and curated premium assortments within a major urban development. Breuninger’s partnership with Monocle for an immersive campaign event in Zürich (Monocle, September 2025) and the “Read my Style” fashion and literature event in Düsseldorf (Lokal Büro, August 2025) further illustrate its focus on experiential, narrative-driven retail and community engagement. Collectively, these initiatives demonstrate how Breuninger leverages its heritage, digital transformation, and a customer-centric, omnichannel strategy to remain a leader in the evolving European retail landscape.

Breuninger: The Art of Retail

What: Glowbar debuts as Falabella’s innovative beauty format, combining expert advice, interactive experiences, and exclusive global brands in a digitally connected space.

Why it is important: Glowbar’s debut highlights the globalisation of beauty retail and the strategic importance of integrating digital and physical shopping environments.

 Falabella has introduced Glowbar, a new beauty retail concept in Peru that merges expert guidance, interactive product experiences, and a curated selection of over 55 international brands, including several making their debut in the country. The store, located in Real Plaza Salaverry, is designed to encourage exploration, featuring intuitive signage, mini and travel-size sections, and a K-beauty area. Glowbar’s integration of a touchscreen connected to Falabella’s digital ecosystem allows customers to browse and purchase products online, ensuring a seamless omnichannel experience. The brand selection process involved extensive research and collaboration with clients to align with emerging trends in skincare, makeup, and fragrances. Glowbar’s launch is part of Falabella’s broader regional strategy to revamp its beauty category, with plans to expand the concept to additional locations and replicate its offerings online. This initiative positions Falabella at the forefront of experiential and omnichannel retail in the Peruvian beauty market, catering to increasingly sophisticated and exploratory consumers. 

IADS Notes: Falabella’s Glowbar launch reflects a broader industry shift toward specialized, experiential, and omnichannel beauty retail, as seen in department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom (“Inside US department stores’ big beauty shakeup,” Glossy, November 2025; “Nordstrom overhauls its Beauty space in NYC,” WWD, August 2025). The concept builds on Falabella’s regional innovations, such as Beauty F in Chile (“Falabella launches Beauty F, a new cosmetics and personal care concept,” Perú Retail, November 2025), and parallels Ulta Beauty’s international expansion (“Why Ulta Beauty Scales Internationally with Space NK,” The Robin Report, July 2025) and La Samaritaine’s curated beauty approach (“Samaritaine best on beauty,” Fashion Network, April 2025). These examples underscore the effectiveness of integrating global brands, immersive experiences, and digital connectivity to meet evolving consumer expectations.

Falabella presents Glowbar, its new beauty concept with more than 55 international brands

What: Bloomingdale’s comparable sales were up 8.8% on an owned basis and 9.0% on an O+L+M (owned+licensed+marketplace) basis, the highest in 13 quarters. Bloomingdale’s sustained sales momentum reflects successful investments in customer experience, digital innovation, and luxury brand partnerships.

Why it is important: Bloomingdale’s sustained sales momentum reflects successful investments in customer experience, digital innovation, and luxury brand partnerships. The results reinforce Macy’s multi-brand strategy, showing that targeted investment in Bloomingdale’s supports long-term growth.

Bloomingdale’s has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth within Macy’s Inc., achieving its fifth consecutive quarter of comparable sales gains in the third quarter of 2025. This sustained momentum is attributed to strategic investments in customer experience, digital innovation, and exclusive luxury partnerships, which have set Bloomingdale’s apart in a competitive retail landscape. Under the leadership of Olivier Bron, the brand has focused on store renovations and immersive retail experiences, such as the high-profile “Happy Together” campaign with Burberry, which have driven both foot traffic and customer loyalty. 

IADS Notes: Bloomingdale’s performance in 2025 reflects a clear trend identified in WWD (May, September, October, and November 2025) and McKinsey (July 2025), where strategic investments in customer experience, digital innovation, and luxury partnerships have driven sustained sales growth and reinforced the brand’s premium positioning within Macy’s Inc.

Bloomingdale’s achieved its fifth consecutive quarter of comparable sales growth

What: Siam Paragon unveils Nextopia, a large-scale, sustainability-focused retail concept in Bangkok that integrates green innovation, technology, and immersive experiences.

Why it is important: This development highlights how leading malls in Asia are leveraging technology, community, and sustainability to redefine the retail experience and attract a new generation of consumers.

Siam Paragon has launched Nextopia, a pioneering retail concept in downtown Bangkok that positions itself as a prototype city of the future. Spanning over 15,000 square meters and built at a cost of more than THB 850 million, Nextopia brings together industry leaders, innovators, and environmental advocates to showcase comprehensive sustainable innovation. The project features cutting-edge infrastructure, a convergence of community-driven initiatives, and value-led offerings from over 40 brands and 300 SMEs, all rooted in sustainability, equality, and inclusivity. Interactive attractions such as a vertical farm, AR binoculars, and hands-on workshops invite visitors to engage with sustainability in practical, enjoyable ways. The space also incorporates advanced clean energy solutions, recycled materials, and healthy building practices, while art and design elements reinforce the connection between people and the environment. Nextopia’s digital extension through the OneSiam SuperApp and its collaboration with global organisations further amplify its mission to foster collective action for a better world. 

IADS Notes: Siam Paragon’s launch of Nextopia exemplifies the convergence of sustainability, technology, and experiential retail that is reshaping the Asian retail landscape. As highlighted in the Asian Retail Outlook 2025 (Inside Retail, February 2025), Thailand is positioning itself as a luxury retail powerhouse, with major players investing heavily in technological integration and smart retail solutions. This transformation is driven by changing consumer behaviours, with 63% of shoppers in Asia prioritising environmental impact and 90% valuing AI-driven personalisation. The focus on experiential retail is further echoed in the April 2025 coverage of Singapore’s City Square Mall (Inside Retail), where a $50 million renovation combined sustainability education, AI, and community engagement to create a benchmark for modern mall experiences. These developments underscore how leading Asian malls like Siam Paragon are not only responding to but also setting new standards for sustainability, digital innovation, and immersive, community-driven retail environments.

The Mall Group's Siam Paragon unveils Nextopia

What: Magasin expects record-breaking Black Friday sales, driven by strong omnichannel performance and evolving consumer shopping behaviors.

Why it is important: This trend demonstrates how department stores are leveraging omnichannel strategies and technology to outperform the broader retail market.

Magasin is poised for a record-breaking Black Friday, building on last year’s success and anticipating a 5–10 percent increase in revenue. The department store’s strong performance is attributed to the convergence of Christmas shopping, payday, and robust consumer spending. Magasin’s e-commerce director, Peter Østerhaab, highlights that both online and in-store sales are outpacing the overall retail sector, reflecting the effectiveness of their omnichannel approach. Danish consumers are increasingly shopping flexibly, seamlessly switching between digital and physical channels, with services like Buy Online Pick Up in Store and Order From Store gaining popularity, especially for larger purchases. The adoption of mobile payment devices enables staff to serve customers directly on the shop floor, reducing wait times and boosting sales. Popular categories include home goods, kitchen appliances, beauty, and fashion, with both classic Christmas gifts and self-indulgent purchases driving demand. Magasin’s strategy demonstrates the importance of integrating technology and flexible shopping solutions to meet evolving consumer expectations and sustain growth during peak retail events.

IADS Notes: Magasin’s expectations for Black Friday are consistent with industry trends observed in December 2025, where department stores saw stabilization and growth through omnichannel strategies (“Black Friday data shows online sales strong, store results mixed,” Forbes, Dec 2025; “Black Friday traffic fell short,” VMSD, Dec 2024; “US department store sales rose 1.4% amid a slowdown in January 2025,” WWD, Feb 2025). Reports from November 2025 and January 2025 emphasize the critical role of seamless digital and physical integration (“Leveraging omnichannel to win back consumer loyalty,” Journal du Net, Nov 2025; “How smart stores are boosting the omnichannel experience,” Journal du Net, Jan 2025), while advances in mobile payment and in-store technology have enhanced customer experience and operational efficiency (“Smart, Secure, Seamless: Payment Methods 2025,” Journal du Net, Jan 2025; “Shelves that inform and interact: physical commerce is reinventing itself,” Journal du Net, Jul 2025). The focus on popular gifting and self-indulgence categories mirrors broader shifts in consumer demand throughout 2025 (“US Holiday Outlook 2025: Value, meaning and generational shifts,” PwC, Sep 2025; “Chocolate trails and beauty tales: ‘Goods getaways’ are on the rise,” Visa, Feb 2025; “John Lewis preps Beauty Advent Calendar launch as searches surge 50%,” Fashion Network, Sep 2025).

Magasin du Nord expects another record-breaking Black Friday

What: Galeries Lafayette’s heritage strategy combines archiving, artistic collaborations, and inventory innovation to position the store as both a cultural and commercial leader.

Why it is important: Galeries Lafayette’s strategy demonstrates how leading retailers are redefining their roles by blending commerce, culture, and technology.

Galeries Lafayette’s approach to heritage is rooted in a comprehensive strategy that intertwines archiving, artistic initiatives, and innovative inventory management. The group’s archives, dating from 1894 to the present, are meticulously catalogued and selectively expanded through acquisitions and donations, ensuring the preservation of key historical artifacts and documents. This effort is not only about safeguarding the past but also about actively shaping the future, as seen in the lending of pieces to major cultural institutions and the inclusion of contemporary works in the collection. The store’s cultural engagement extends to patronage and artistic collaborations, positioning Galeries Lafayette as a dynamic cultural player within the retail landscape. By integrating these elements, the department store reinforces its brand identity and societal relevance, while also adapting to evolving consumer expectations and industry standards. This multifaceted strategy highlights the importance of heritage as both a commercial and cultural asset, ensuring the continued resonance of Galeries Lafayette in a rapidly changing retail environment.

IADS Notes: Galeries Lafayette’s strategy is in line with recent developments observed in the retail sector, where leading department stores are leveraging heritage, artistic programming, and technological innovation to strengthen brand differentiation and customer engagement. The store’s 2026 cultural programme and its collaboration with artists reflect a broader trend toward experiential retail, as reported by Fashion Network (Nov 2025). The integration of sustainability and creativity in visual merchandising, seen at Fortnum & Mason, is highlighted by Retail Week (Sep 2025). The modernisation of inventory processes mirrors similar shifts at Nordstrom and Macy’s, as covered by Retail Dive (Dec 2024). The broader transformation of retail merchandising, blending human insight and technology, is discussed in Forbes (Aug 2025). These initiatives underscore the convergence of commerce, culture, and technology in shaping the future of retail.

Fashion, archives and creation: how Galeries Lafayette is crafting its living heritage

What: Galeries Lafayette is transforming its flagship store into a cultural destination with a comprehensive 2026 art and performance programme.

Why it is important: Galeries Lafayette’s strategy reflects a broader retail trend of using cultural programming to build community and differentiate the brand.

Galeries Lafayette is redefining the role of its flagship Haussmann store by unveiling an ambitious cultural programme for 2026, positioning itself as a key player in Paris’s art scene. The initiative includes a series of art installations, film screenings, and artist residencies, with the store’s spaces serving as both exhibition venues and film sets. The programme is structured around three pillars: heritage, artistic actions, and patronage, and features collaborations with renowned institutions such as the Centre Pompidou. Highlights include the By Night audiovisual programme, Carte Blanche exhibitions, and the Savoir Faire Savoir artist support initiative. These efforts not only showcase established and emerging artists but also invite public participation through open calls and after-hours events. By integrating cultural experiences into its retail environment, Galeries Lafayette aims to deepen customer engagement, foster community, and set itself apart in a competitive market, reflecting a broader industry movement toward experiential retail.

IADS Notes: Galeries Lafayette’s cultural strategy aligns with recent retail trends, such as Lotte Department Store’s expansion of art courses (Maeil Business Newspaper, August 2025) and Bloomingdale’s transformation into an immersive, artist-led destination (WWD, September 2025). Forbes (April 2025) highlighted how community-driven initiatives and cultural programming are redefining department stores, while Korean retailers’ focus on cultural centres (Korea JoongAng Daily, October 2025) and insights from the World Retail Congress (Fashion Network, May 2025) emphasised the importance of authentic engagement and loyalty through experiential offerings.

Galeries Lafayette unveils its 2026 cultural programme

What: John Lewis is shifting from closures to growth, modernising stores and adding high-profile fashion brands to drive recovery.

Why it is important: John Lewis’s strategy builds on recent successes in customer satisfaction and operational improvements reported in the past year.

John Lewis’s recovery marks a pivotal moment for the UK department store sector, as the retailer transitions from a period of closures and financial losses to a renewed phase of growth and innovation. Under the direction of experienced retail leadership, the company is not only halting further closures but is actively considering new store openings in previously unserved regions. Central to this revival is a bold expansion of its fashion offering, highlighted by the addition of 100 new brands and exclusive collaborations, most notably with Topshop. These partnerships are designed to reinvigorate the brand mix and attract a broader customer base. The retailer’s £800 million investment in modernising its stores, including experiential upgrades such as revamped beauty halls and VIP lounges, reflects a broader industry trend toward enhancing in-store experiences. This strategic focus on operational excellence and customer engagement has enabled John Lewis to surpass competitors in customer satisfaction, positioning it as a revitalised leader in UK retail.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s transformation over the past year is well documented, with sources from August 2025 (“John Lewis adds 100 premium fashion brands to challenge Next and M&S,” Retail Gazette; “Despite the demise of many department stores, the format remains relevant today,” Retail Week) and September 2025 (“John Lewis revealed as Topshop’s latest UK stockist,” Press Release; “John Lewis focuses on positive momentum despite deepening losses,” Retail Week) highlighting the retailer’s addition of 100 new fashion brands, the exclusive Topshop partnership, and a comprehensive £800 million investment in store renovations and experiential retail. The relevance of the department store format is reinforced by John Lewis’s ability to maintain customer loyalty and satisfaction, as reported in August and September 2025. The approval of the Reading mixed-use development in October 2025 (“John Lewis Partnership receives green light for Reading development,” Retail Week) further illustrates the retailer’s evolving property strategy and commitment to blending retail excellence with urban regeneration.

Recovering John Lewis may open new department stores, ramps up fashion offer

What: Cristina Álvarez has been appointed as the new non-executive chairperson of El Corte Inglés, succeeding her sister Marta Álvarez.

Why it is important: The appointment signals continuity in governance while supporting the company’s focus on efficiency, financial health, and growth.

El Corte Inglés has announced a significant leadership transition, with Cristina Álvarez set to become the new non-executive chairperson, taking over from her sister Marta Álvarez in January 2026. This change is presented as part of a stable and orderly succession, ensuring continuity in the company’s direction. Marta Álvarez, who will remain involved in strategic areas, emphasised the readiness of the new management team to pursue the objectives outlined in the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. The announcement coincides with the release of strong financial results for the first half of fiscal year 2025-2026, including revenues of €8.212 billion, a 1.6% like-for-like turnover increase, and a 10.3% rise in net profit to €224 million. The group also reported ongoing debt reduction and robust performance across retail, travel, insurance, and financial services. These results reflect the company’s focus on operational efficiency, resource optimisation, and profitable growth, positioning El Corte Inglés for continued success in a competitive retail landscape.

IADS Notes: The leadership transition at El Corte Inglés is consistent with the company’s broader strategy of generational renewal and operational rigour, as highlighted in October 2025 (“A look at El Corte Inglés’ new leadership team,” El Confidencial). Recent financial results, including strong like-for-like growth and EBITDA, validate the effectiveness of its transformation initiatives and investment plans outlined in June 2025 (“El Corte Inglés posts a FY2024-25 like-for-like growth of 4.3%,” Press Release) and July 2025 (“El Corte Inglés announces €3 billion investment plan,” Modaes, Fashion Network). Ongoing asset management and debt reduction further reinforce the group’s financial health and capacity for future expansion, as reported in July 2025 (“El Corte Inglés increases the value of its real estate portfolio to €15.716 billion,” Modaes), underscoring its resilience and adaptability in the evolving retail sector.

El Corte Inglés names Cristina Álvarez its new chairperson

What: Elsa Haddad is appointed Director of Finance, Strategy, and Transformation at Galeries Lafayette, joining the executive committee.

Why it is important: Bringing in experienced leaders supports Galeries Lafayette’s efforts to modernise its network and accelerate digital and sustainability strategies.

Elsa Haddad’s appointment as Director of Finance, Strategy, and Transformation at Galeries Lafayette marks a significant step in the retailer’s ongoing evolution. Reporting directly to CEO Arthur Lemoine, Haddad will be responsible for steering the company’s transformation priorities and overseeing budget construction and monitoring. Her promotion follows a series of strategic leadership changes, including the recent appointment of Lemoine and the recruitment of Harold Israel, reflecting a deliberate effort to renew and strengthen the executive team. Haddad’s career trajectory within the group, from project management to digital and development roles, and most recently as head of Beauty, Home, and Leisure purchasing, positions her as a versatile leader equipped to drive operational excellence. The company’s current strategy involves optimising its store network, closing underperforming locations, and transitioning some franchises to the BHV brand, while also investing in digital innovation and sustainability. These moves underscore Galeries Lafayette’s commitment to adapting its business model to meet shifting consumer expectations and market dynamics.
IADS Notes: In July 2025, Galeries Lafayette underwent a major management reshuffle, appointing Arthur Lemoine as CEO and promoting several executives to support a comprehensive transformation strategy (WWD, July 2025). The group’s €400 million investment plan, detailed in February 2025, focuses on optimising the store network and modernising flagship locations, while closures in Marseille and Rosny 2 reflect ongoing consolidation efforts (Le Figaro, February 2025; Fashion Network, March 2025). The Haussmann flagship’s double-digit growth in 2025 and the launch of a new CSR strategy in April 2025 highlight the importance of digital, omnichannel, and sustainability initiatives, all of which are being advanced by experienced leaders like Elsa Haddad (Fashion Network, July 2025; Fashion Network, April 2025).

Galeries Lafayette promotes Elsa Haddad as its new Director of Finance, Strategy and Transformation

What: Falabella opens a new flagship store in Viña del Mar, introducing international brands and innovative customer experiences while prioritising local employment and community engagement.

Why it is important: This move reflects Falabella’s strategy of regional expansion and innovation, aligning with recent trends in experiential retail and community-focused growth.

Falabella’s latest store opening in Viña del Mar marks a significant step in the company’s regional expansion, reinforcing its presence in the Valparaíso Region with a modern retail space spanning over 7,000 square meters. The store not only brings a curated selection of international brands such as UGG, Clarks, Mango, and Benetton to the area for the first time but also introduces experiential features like Beauty F and Taller F, offering beauty services and clothing customisation. With a workforce of 254 direct employees and 100 external staff, the majority of whom are local women, Falabella demonstrates a strong commitment to local employment and gender diversity. The opening ceremony, attended by municipal leaders, underscored the store’s role in boosting regional economic activity and supporting the community. Additionally, the store’s sponsorship of a local school through the Haciendo Escuela program highlights Falabella’s ongoing investment in educational initiatives. These efforts collectively position the retailer as a leader in combining innovative customer experiences with meaningful community engagement.

IADS Notes: Falabella’s expansion in Viña del Mar is consistent with its broader investment and growth strategy in the region, as seen in March 2025 ("Falabella to open a new store in the Valparaiso region," Fashion Network), June 2025 ("Peru accounts for 28% of Falabella's regional revenue, with plans for further growth," Perú Retail), and August 2025 ("Falabella reports 9.2% sales growth in 2025 Q1," Modaes), where the company focused on flagship openings, regional sales growth, and multi-format retail. The introduction of exclusive brands and experiential features aligns with industry trends highlighted in November 2025 ("Falabella presents three Colombian fashion brands," Fashion Network), while the emphasis on local hiring and community programs reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and workforce diversity, as documented in May 2025 ("Falabella sets its sustainable agenda," Fashion Network).

Falabella opens a new store in Viña del Mar, Chile

What: The 20-year transformation of Siam Paragon focuses on luxury, gastronomy, innovation, and immersive experiences, positioning the mall as a global prototype for experiential retail and urban culture.

Why it is important: By integrating next-generation learning, digital literacy, and creative spaces, Siam Paragon is setting a new benchmark for how malls can drive urban development and shape consumer aspirations.

Siam Paragon, one of Bangkok’s most influential retail landmarks, has unveiled an ambitious overhaul to mark its 20th anniversary, reinforcing its role as a driver of Thailand’s tourism and retail sectors. The transformation, branded “A Journey of Extraordinary Dreams,” introduces new luxury flagships, immersive experiential zones, and a focus on innovation and learning. Anchored by more than 70 luxury maisons and over 700 restaurants and cafés, the mall is expanding its multi-storey luxury offerings and integrating art, fashion, music, and gastronomy to create a holistic lifestyle ecosystem. The launch of NEXTOPIA, a 15,000-square-metre co-creation hub, and digital literacy initiatives like SCBX NEXT TECH reflect a commitment to future-focused urban development and community engagement. With record-breaking sales, exclusive shopping privileges, and a renewed emphasis on personalization and cultural programming, Siam Paragon is redefining what it means to be a global retail and lifestyle destination, setting new standards for experiential excellence and urban placemaking in Southeast Asia.

IADS Notes: Siam Paragon’s 20th anniversary overhaul is a landmark example of how flagship malls in Bangkok are redefining the future of retail, tourism, and urban culture. As detailed by Inside Retail (September 2025), the mall’s investment in immersive attractions, new luxury flagships, and experiential zones is part of a broader strategy to maintain its leadership in Thailand’s luxury market—where it already holds a 70% share and the country’s highest revenue per square metre. The transformation is rooted in “experiential value design,” with anchors like Beauty Hall, Gourmet Market, and Power Mall shaping a lifestyle ecosystem that mirrors evolving consumer aspirations (Inside Retail, June 2025). Siam Paragon’s integration of next-generation learning hubs, digital literacy initiatives, and creative community spaces (Inside Retail, January 2025) positions it as a model for future urban lifestyle ecosystems, blending commerce, culture, and innovation. This approach is echoed across Bangkok’s retail landscape, with Central Pattana and Central Chidlom also investing in flagship reinvention and community-centric design (Inside Retail, March 2025; The Nation, December 2024). Collectively, these developments underscore the strategic importance of flagship malls as global destinations and cultural anchors, driving both local engagement and international tourism in an era of shifting consumer behavior and rising regional competition.

Siam Paragon unveils major revamp for 20th anniversary

What: Galeries Lafayette’s CEO rejects Shein’s presence in its stores, citing a fundamental clash with the retailer’s values and standards.

Why it is important: The rejection underscores the importance of brand integrity and compliance in maintaining consumer trust and stakeholder confidence.

Arthur Lemoine, CEO of Galeries Lafayette, has firmly opposed the installation of Shein within stores bearing the Galeries Lafayette name, declaring the fast fashion giant to be in total contradiction with the department store’s values, practices, and positioning. Lemoine emphasised that Galeries Lafayette has, for over 130 years, curated products that comply with European and French regulations and uphold standards of quality and creativity, spanning from accessible to luxury segments. This stance comes amid the recent dissolution of the partnership between Galeries Lafayette and the Société des grands magasins (SGM), which will see seven provincial stores rebranded as BHV. The split follows mounting tensions over Shein’s planned entry into these locations, which also led to the withdrawal of public funding for real estate transactions and heightened scrutiny over regulatory compliance. Lemoine reiterated the group’s commitment to honoring contractual obligations with SGM until the end of the year, while signaling readiness to explore alternatives if necessary. This episode highlights the critical role of brand values and regulatory adherence in shaping strategic decisions for established retailers.

IADS Notes: In November 2025, Galeries Lafayette’s break with SGM over Shein’s entry illustrated the reputational risks and operational upheaval that can arise when legacy retailers confront ultra-fast fashion disruptors (WWD/Press Release, Nov 2025). The controversy around Shein’s presence at BHV Marais in October 2025 led to staff protests, brand withdrawals, and the loss of public funding (Fashion Network, Oct 2025; Inside Retail, Oct 2025), while Shein’s €40 million fine in July 2025 underscored the regulatory risks for partners (Fashion Network, Jul 2025). These events demonstrate how ethical, political, and compliance considerations are increasingly central to retail strategy and stakeholder relations.

Galeries Lafayette CEO’s views on Shein

What: Bloomingdale’s and Burberry have launched an immersive holiday collaboration featuring exclusive products, experiential retail, and a multi-channel marketing campaign.

Why it is important: The campaign highlights the increasing importance of immersive retail and multi-channel marketing in differentiating luxury brands.

Bloomingdale’s and Burberry have joined forces for the holiday season, unveiling a comprehensive collaboration that transforms the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship into a showcase for Burberry’s craftsmanship and British heritage. The partnership features a dramatic takeover of the store’s facade with a giant illuminated Burberry scarf, exclusive capsule collections in a signature red-check motif, and collectible holiday bears, all designed to appeal to a broad luxury audience. The collaboration extends beyond the flagship, with pop-ups and special merchandise in twelve additional Bloomingdale’s stores, and is supported by a robust digital campaign, out-of-home advertising, and targeted email marketing. This initiative not only celebrates the longstanding relationship between the two brands but also leverages immersive experiences and product exclusivity to attract diverse customer segments. By integrating storytelling, exclusive gifting, and multi-channel engagement, the campaign positions both brands at the forefront of experiential luxury retail, setting a new standard for holiday activations in the sector.

IADS Notes: The Bloomingdale’s and Burberry collaboration, launched in October 2025 (“Bloomingdale’s unveils ‘Happy Together’ campaign featuring Burberry collaboration,” WWD), exemplifies the strategic use of immersive retail and exclusive products to drive engagement and sales. This mirrors similar multi-channel holiday campaigns by Nordstrom (“Nordstrom unveils the holiday campaign,” Press Release, October 2025) and Falabella (“Falabella enhances its physical and digital offerings for Christmas 2024,” Press Release, December 2024). The approach reflects a broader industry movement toward experiential retail and innovative brand partnerships, as department stores seek to differentiate themselves and build lasting customer loyalty.

Bloomingdale’s and Burberry holiday collaboration

What: Chanel debuts its largest department store boutique at Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship, offering an immersive, service-centric environment across two floors.

Why it is important: This expansion reflects the strategic importance of experiential retail and exclusive partnerships in revitalising department stores.

Chanel has unveiled a newly expanded two-level boutique at Bloomingdale’s flagship in New York, marking a significant milestone in both brands’ partnership. The 4,260-square-foot space, designed by Peter Marino, unites all Chanel fashion categories, including ready-to-wear, accessories, watches, and fine jewelry, within a contemporary and intimate setting inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s Paris apartment. The boutique’s layout encourages discovery and personal service, featuring dedicated salons, a VIP suite, and direct access to the shoe department. Chanel’s “one boutique, one story” strategy ensures a unique assortment tailored to this location, reinforcing customer loyalty and the brand’s luxury positioning. Bloomingdale’s sees this as a transformative step in reimagining its customer experience, with the boutique serving as a centerpiece for its broader vision of innovation and premium retail. The collaboration underscores the enduring value of department stores as destinations for luxury and discovery, even as the retail landscape evolves.

IADS Notes: Chanel’s expansion at Bloomingdale’s aligns with the department store’s recent investments in customer experience and store renovations, as seen in November 2025 (“Olivier Bron on elevating Bloomingdale’s customer experience,” WWD). This move reflects a broader industry trend toward immersive, premium retail environments and exclusive brand partnerships, highlighted in July 2025 (“Bloomingdale’s CEO Olivier Bron interviewed by McKinsey on the future of the department store model,” McKinsey), September 2025 (“Multi-brand retail: independent boutiques are making a comeback,” BoF), and June 2025 (“Can US luxury department stores survive the next century, or even, decade?” Fashion Network), which have driven growth and differentiation for Bloomingdale’s amidst challenges in the luxury department store sector.

Bloomingdale’s NYC flagship unveils a two-level Chanel store

What: El Corte Inglés reaches a decade-high valuation of €14 billion, driven by international investment and strong financial recovery.

Why it is important: This milestone underscores the effectiveness of El Corte Inglés’ transformation strategy and the growing influence of international investors in European retail.

El Corte Inglés has achieved its highest valuation in a decade, reaching €14 billion, following an upward revision by its Qatari shareholder, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani. This increase reflects a sustained recovery since the pandemic, with the group’s value rising by 60% since 2021. The Qatari investor, who currently holds 5.53% of the company, has seen the value of his stake rise for three consecutive years, though at a slower pace than before. The company’s financial turnaround is marked by significant debt reduction and a record dividend distribution, with €225 million approved at the latest shareholders’ meeting. Despite internal turbulence, including six CEOs in six years and the ongoing leadership of Marta Álvarez, El Corte Inglés has managed to strengthen its financial position and attract continued international investment. The group’s improved valuation comes at a pivotal moment, as it continues to modernise its operations and maintain its status as a leading European department store.

IADS Notes: El Corte Inglés’ record valuation is supported by strong FY2024-25 results, including €1.2 billion EBITDA and significant debt reduction, as noted in June 2025 (“El Corte Inglés posts a FY2024-25 like-for-like growth of 4.3%”, Press Release). The company’s €3 billion investment plan through 2030 and a 6.2% increase in its real estate portfolio, highlighted in July 2025 (“El Corte Inglés announces €3 billion investment plan”, Modaes, Fashion Network; “El Corte Inglés increases the value of its real estate portfolio to €15.716 billion”, Modaes), demonstrate a commitment to modernisation and financial stability. The growing role of international investors, such as Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani, mirrors broader trends in Spanish retail, as seen in March 2025 (“Springfield and Cortefiel in the hands of Abu Dhabi investors”, Retail Detail).

El Corte Inglés' valuation reaches a decade high of €14 billion

What: Sfera is undergoing a store network renovation and will launch its updated retail format in Mexico next year.

Why it is important: Leadership changes and continued store growth at Sfera underscore the group’s resilience and evolving approach to retail management.

Sfera, the fashion chain owned by El Corte Inglés, is in the midst of a comprehensive store renovation plan that began in 2025 and will extend into 2026, including a significant launch of its new retail format in Mexico. This initiative follows the recent introduction of the updated concept in key Spanish cities such as Barcelona, Bilbao, and Valladolid, and marks a strategic effort to rejuvenate the brand’s image and customer experience. Sfera closed the 2024 fiscal year with 529 stores, a steady increase over previous years, highlighting the brand’s sustained expansion both domestically and internationally. The company’s approach combines company-owned stores in core markets with franchised operations abroad, allowing for flexible growth. Since late 2023, Ángela Goitia has led Sfera’s store and expansion strategy, bringing experience from Parfois and supporting the group’s broader transformation. El Corte Inglés’s robust financial performance and recent leadership restructuring further reinforce its commitment to innovation and operational agility, positioning Sfera for continued growth and relevance in the evolving retail landscape.

IADS Notes: El Corte Inglés’s transformation strategy has been evident through significant investments in store innovation and customer experience, as seen in the Gen Z-focused pop-up in Madrid and a €428 million upgrade (Modaes, May 2025). Sfera’s international growth, particularly in Mexico, aligns with the group’s expansion model, with 65% of stores now outside Spain and Portugal (Modaes, July 2025). Leadership changes, including the creation of a Transformation Office and internal promotions (El Confidencial, March 2025; Modaes, October 2025), have strengthened the company’s modernization efforts, supported by a 4.3% like-for-like growth in FY2024-25 (Press Release, June 2025).

El Corte Inglés to expand Sfera into Mexico in 2026

What: Breuninger expands its localised e-commerce and loyalty program into Switzerland and the Netherlands, advancing its omnichannel strategy in premium retail.

Why it is important: Breuninger’s strategy exemplifies the shift toward data-driven, customer-centric retail, building on successful digital and physical integration.

Breuninger is accelerating its digital expansion by launching localised online shops in Switzerland and the Netherlands, while also introducing its loyalty program, Beyond by Breuninger, to Swiss customers. This move highlights the company’s commitment to providing tailored shopping experiences, with localised payment and shipping options, as well as customer journeys designed to meet the unique needs of each market. The omnichannel strategy seamlessly integrates physical retail, digital services, and loyalty initiatives, ensuring a consistent, personalised experience across all touchpoints. By combining these elements, Breuninger positions itself as more than a traditional sales platform, aspiring to be a true host for its customers in the premium and luxury segment. The international rollout of its digital and loyalty offerings signals Breuninger’s ambition to establish itself as a leading premium retailer in Europe, leveraging innovation, personalisation, and customer engagement to drive sustainable growth. 

IADS Notes: Breuninger’s digital transformation, which resulted in 60% of sales coming from online channels by July 2025, set the stage for its international e-commerce expansion (Fashion United, July 2025). The launch of new retail media formats and a self-service platform in September 2025 further enhanced its omnichannel capabilities (Press Release, September 2025), while the opening of the Hamburg store in April 2025 demonstrated the successful integration of digital and physical retail (Horston, April 2025). Personalised, immersive experiences—such as the Düsseldorf fashion and literature event in August 2025—underscore Breuninger’s commitment to customer-centric innovation and experiential retail (Lokal Büro, August 2025).

Breuninger strengthens its European presence by launching localised online shops