Fast Retailing has revealed Australian actor Cate Blanchett as its latest global ambassador for its Uniqlo brand.

The Japanese retail giant said the Academy-Award, BAFTA, and Golden Globe-winning actor will work with Uniqlo in “advancing” its LifeWear philosophy or “the continuous pursuit of excellence, humanitarian and next-generation support, and positive contribution to society,” according to a press release.

“Ms. Blanchett is among the greatest actors of her generation–on stage and on screen. But our admiration goes beyond entertainment,” ​​
said Tadashi Yanai, Uniqlo founder and chairman, president and CEO of Fast Retailing.

“Her passion and engagement is evident in her contributions as a role model for women and her mentorship of emerging film and theatre artists, as well as her long standing commitment to humanitarian and environmental causes. Through our partnership, we will work together to make positive changes in the world around us.”

The Tokyo-based company said further details pertaining to the 56-year-old’s ambassadorship would be unveiled shortly.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1969, Blanchett is best known for movie roles in “Tár”, “Carol”, “The Aviator”, “Blue Jasmine”, and “Elizabeth”, as well as her acting on Broadway and the West End. During her career, the actress has served as co-artistic director and co-CEO of Sydney Theatre Company and as co-founder of production company Dirty Films.

Beyond her work on stage and screen, Blanchett seres as a global goodwill ambassador for the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. She’s also a member of the Earthshot Prize Council, an inaugural ambassador for Wakehurst’s Millennium Seed Bank, a board member of the UK’s National Theatre, and a patron of both the Sydney Film Festival and NIDA Foundation.

“I value the ambition of Uniqlo to make life better through its LifeWear apparel: timeless design, perfected simplicity, affordable, accessible, quality clothing that lasts,” said Blanchett.

“I am energised by the opportunity to help Uniqlo advance important aspects of its LifeWear philosophy-supporting the next generation, playing a part in highlighting and combatting the ongoing global displacement crisis, giving back to communities, and finding meaningful ways to contribute to a more equitable world. On top of that, to creatively reconnect with Clare Waight Keller and to be in dialogue with Uniqlo global brand ambassador, Roger Federer, is a privilege indeed.”

In its July trading update, Fast Retailing Co. reported third-quarter earnings that fell short of expectations, as sluggish sales in China dragged on the apparel company’s results.

For the three months ending in May, operating profit totaled ¥146.7 billion ($1 billion), below the analyst consensus of ¥150 billion compiled by Bloomberg. Net income for the quarter was ¥105.5 billion.

Author Credits- Benjamin Fitzgerald
FASHION NETWORK