Candere, a lifestyle jewellery brand from Kalyan Jewellers has signed Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan as its brand ambassador.

With this association, the brand aims to expand its presence in the men’s jewellery category and banking on the actor’s popularity with Indian audiences across all age groups to boost sales.

Khan will feature in the brand’s multimedia campaigns spanning across digital, television, print, and in-store experiences.

Commenting on the association, Ramesh Kalyanaraman, director of Candere in a statement said, “In Shah Rukh Khan, we found a partner whose cultural resonance, timeless appeal, and emotional connect mirror the values we stand for. He bridges generations while remaining powerfully relevant to today’s audience. His presence will help us articulate the idea that Candere’s jewellery is no longer just about adornment – it’s a thoughtful, personal expression of identity and intent.”

Shah Rukh Khan added, “Jewellery has always been a powerful expression of love, memories, and identity. I’m excited to partner with Candere, a brand from the House of Kalyan Jewellers, which offers a modern and fresh perspective on how people wear and gift jewellery today.”

Candere retails its jewellery through its e-commerce platform and over 75 retail stores across India.

Author Credits- Maverick Martins, FASHION NETWORK

Investors can experience the 360-degree lifecycle of their investment, while agents gain deeper insights into their customers’ buying journey

Dubai, UAE: DAMAC Properties has unveiled the Middle East’s first fully experiential e-commerce property website, redefining the future of real estate transactions with a seamless blend of technology, transparency, and immersive engagement.

This world-class digital platform allows users to explore DAMAC’s luxury properties through interactive 3D virtual tours, check live inventory, and reserve units in real time all in seconds.

Ali Sajwani, Managing Director of Operations, Finance and Hospitality at DAMAC, commented: “The launch of our new e-commerce platform represents a bold step forward in redefining how real estate is experienced and transacted for our buyers in the UAE and globally. Combining immersive technology with seamless functionality empowers buyers and brokers with more access, convenience, and confidence.”

Integrated with metaverse capabilities, multilingual and geo-targeted features, and end-to-end CRM and telesales support, the platform brings unprecedented convenience to investors, home buyers, and brokers. It offers agents personalised links with lead attribution, 15-day tracking, full EOI (expression of interest), and invoicing capabilities.

Key projects in DAMAC’s portfolio, including the latest launch, Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, are now available on the portal for users to submit their EOI.

The new website also integrates with DAMAC Properties’ internal inventory management pipeline, ensuring the near real-time availability of units across its portfolio.

As DAMAC Properties continues to expand its reach and enrich its customer offer, the launch of this new platform represents our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional experiences for buyers and brokers.

Visit the website: www.damacproperties.com

About DAMAC Properties

DAMAC Properties has been at the forefront of the Middle East’s luxury real estate market since 2002, delivering award-winning residential, commercial and leisure properties across the region and internationally, including in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, the Maldives, Canada, the United States, as well as the United Kingdom.

Since then, the company has delivered more than 48,000 homes with over 50,000 more in diverse planning and development phases. Joining forces with some of the world’s most eminent fashion and lifestyle brands to create tremendous living experiences, such as with Versace, Roberto Cavalli, or de GRISOGONO. With a consistent vision and momentum, DAMAC is building the next generation of luxury living across the globe.

News Credits- ZAWYA BY LSEG

Australia Post will begin the development of six new greenfield sites in New South Wales (NSW) as part of a multimillion-dollar investment plan aimed at boosting parcel capacity and improving services across rural and regional communities.

The purpose-built facilities in Tumut, Leeton, Casino, Deniliquin, Forbes and Byron Bay are designed to increase processing capability to between 900 parcels to 2,200 parcels per day, as well as improve operational safety and efficiency.

According to Australia Post, sustainability is a key focus of the expansion, with all sites featuring 50kW rooftop solar power generation, and a number also investing in rainwater harvesting and electric vehicle-charging capability.

Shane Plant, Australia Post general manager – network development and support services, said, “In New South Wales, we’ve seen online purchases increase by 2.8% year-on-year, with data indicating that 82% of NSW households are now shopping online [according to Australia Post Group parcels data, 2018 to 2024].

“As regional areas increasingly depend on e-commerce due to fewer physical retail offerings, these purpose-built sites will enable Australia Post to meet the growing parcel demand in these regions.

“Beyond speed and efficiency, we’re focused on providing safer workplaces for our team members and building environmentally responsible infrastructure that can serve communities well unto the future.”

The details and timelines for each of these new sites are as follows:

• Tumut: Construction has commenced on the 600m² site, with plans to open in late 2025.
• Leeton: Construction on the 1,105m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening toward the end of that year.
• Casino: Construction on the 1,350m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening toward the end of that year.
• Deniliquin: Construction on the 1,335m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening toward the end of that year.
• Forbes: Construction on the 1,796m² site will begin in early 2026, with an expected opening toward the end of that year.
• Byron Bay: Construction on the 3,072m² site will begin in mid-2026, with the site expected to open by mid-2027.

As part of this regional expansion, a brownfield site has also been secured in Narrandera. Further brownfield sites in Cooma and Ballina are in lease negotiations.

Author Credits- HAZEL KING, Parcel and postal technology INTERNATIONAL

Flipkart’s fashion arm Myntra has expanded into Singapore to bring Indian fashion and lifestyle labels to the desi diaspora and beyond, as the business sets its sights on the global market. “Hello Singapore, we’ve arrived,” announced Myntra on Facebook on May 19.

“We have launched Myntra Global in Singapore, focused on presenting Indian fashion to the world,” said Myntra’s CEO Nandita Sinha, the Press Trust of India reported. “Made in India brands, which cater to the Indian diaspora, especially around Indian needs, are what we are bringing to the customers.”

The Myntra Global website will house more than 100 Indian brands with approximately 35,000 shoppable styles, ETRetail reported. With categories including apparel, accessories, footwear, and home décor, the site will feature brands such as Rare Rabbit, Global Desi, Aurelia, Anouk, and House of Pataudi among others.

“We have a huge Indian diaspora in a country like Singapore- almost 650,000 Indians live in Singapore,” said Sinha. “As we were going through our data… we realised that almost 30,000 of these users are actually visiting us every month. We then decided to launch Myntra Global in Singapore.”

Orders made on the Myntra Global website will be shipped out from India and routed through cross-border logistics services. Delivery from India to Singapore is expected to take between four and seven days.

Author Credits- Isabelle Crossley, FASHION NETWORK

Dubai, UAE – Apparel Group, a leading fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate in the region, proudly announces the opening of Koton’s renovated concept store at Dubai Mall, marking a strategic milestone in the brand’s growth journey across the region. Located on the first floor of one of the world’s most iconic shopping destinations, the store showcases an evolved retail identity with a curated focus on women’s and teen fashion.

This elevated store design reflects both Koton’s global brand direction and Apparel Group’s regional expansion strategy, combining trend-led collections with a modern shopping environment tailored to the UAE’s dynamic fashion consumer. The store offers a refined layout, immersive visual merchandising, and collections that reflect the brand’s signature blend of elegance, accessibility, and seasonality.

Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group, commented: “The opening of Koton’s reimagined concept at Dubai Mall underscores Apparel Group’s long-term vision to strengthen our global brand partnerships through focused regional expansion. The GCC retail landscape is evolving rapidly, and with this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional brand experiences that resonate deeply with our customers in the UAE and beyond. Koton is well-positioned to lead in the value-driven fashion space, and we are proud to support its next chapter of growth in the region.”

Speaking at the opening, Chairman Yılmaz Yılmaz stated: “The Gulf region is of strategic importance for Koton’s international expansion. We are proud to launch our new store concept in such a prestigious location as Dubai Mall, in collaboration with Apparel Group. This partnership sets a strong foundation for future growth. We will soon launch Koton.com in the region as well and aim to expand our store network with nine new openings by the end of 2025.”

Currently operating 18 stores across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, Koton, in partnership with Apparel Group, is charting a regional growth strategy that includes upcoming market entries into Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. This expansion reflects a joint ambition to accelerate performance, elevate customer experience, and establish Koton as a regional fashion mainstay.

Globally, Koton operates 449 stores in over 70 countries, offering accessible, trend-driven collections with a strong commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment in the workforce. The opening at Dubai Mall not only strengthens Koton’s global momentum but also reflects Apparel Group’s pivotal role in accelerating the brand’s presence across the high-growth Gulf retail sector. This partnership brings together Koton’s international appeal and Apparel Group’s regional expertise to deliver a retail experience tailored to the evolving needs of GCC consumers.

About Koton:

Koton, a pioneer in fashion and retail in Türkiye, stepped into the ready-to-wear retail market with its first store opened in Istanbul in 1988. Today Koton trends and fashion reaches over 70 countries worldwide through 449 stores and online channels.

Creative and innovative, with a customer and technology focus, Koton merges seasonal trends with unique designs and follows a policy of offering them at suitable locations. Koton has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability with its “Respect Life” manifesto, and in 2022, 30% of its revenues came from sustainable products. With a 72% female employee rate and a 54% female managerial rate, Koton has proven its dedication to women’s participation in the workforce and their presence in professional life.

About Apparel Group LLC

Apparel Group is a global retail powerhouse based in Dubai, UAE, strategically positioned at the crossroads of the modern economy. With a network of over 2,300 retail stores and more than 85 brands, the company serves countless shoppers worldwide, supported by a multicultural workforce exceeding 27,000 employees.

The company has established a significant footprint in the GCC, including Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, while expanding into markets such as India, South Africa, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Egypt. Apparel Group is also preparing to enter emerging markets like Hungary and the Philippines, reflecting its forward-looking vision.

With a diverse brand portfolio spanning the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia, Apparel Group offers an omni-channel experience featuring renowned names like Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Skechers, ALDO, Crocs, Nine West, Calvin Klein, Aéropostale, Jamie’s Italian, Tim Hortons, Cold Stone Creamery, Inglot, and Rituals. This versatility underscores the company’s adaptability and broad appeal.

Guided by the vision of its dynamic Founder and Chairwoman, Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, Apparel Group has experienced remarkable growth over the past two decades, evolving into a global leader in retail. For more information, visit www.apparelgroup.com.

About AppCorp Holding:

AppCorp Holding, led by Founder and Chairman Nilesh Ved, is a multi-billion-dollar transnational holding that, through its flagship company Apparel Group, operates across 14 countries, managing 2,300+ stores and representing 85+ international and homegrown brands with a workforce of 27,000+ employees. The holding has built a diverse portfolio spanning retail, food and beverage, real estate, logistics, healthcare, education, and investment.

News Credits- ZAWYA BY LSEG

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday that Walmart should “eat the tariffs” instead of blaming duties imposed by his administration on imported goods for the retailer’s increased prices.

His comments were in response to the world’s largest retailer saying this week it would have to start raising prices later this month due to high tariffs.

“Walmart should STOP trying to blame Tariffs as the reason for raising prices throughout the chain. Walmart made BILLIONS OF DOLLARS last year, far more than expected,” Trump said in a social media post.

“Between Walmart and China they should, as is said, ‘EAT THE TARIFFS,’ and not charge valued customers ANYTHING.”

Walmart said it has always worked to keep its prices as low as possible, adding that this practice will not stop.

“We’ll keep prices as low as we can for as long as we can given the reality of small retail margins,” the company said in a statement to Reuters.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said on Thursday the retailer could not absorb all the tariff costs because of narrow retail margins. Even so, he said, the company was committed to ensuring that tariff-related costs on general merchandise, which primarily comes from China, would not drive food prices higher.

Many U.S. companies have either slashed or pulled their full-year expectations amid friction between the U.S. and its trading partners, particularly China, as consumers curtail spending.

As a bellwether of U.S. consumer health, Walmart’s explicit statement about the impact of tariffs is a signpost for how the trade war is affecting the retail sector. Walmart is noted for its ability to manage costs more aggressively than other companies to keep prices low.

Every week, 255 million people shop in its stores or place orders online around the world, and 90% of the U.S. population lives within 10 miles (16 km) of a Walmart.

Walmart’s disclosure comes about three weeks after a published report that Amazon, opens new tab planned to disclose how much Trump-imposed tariffs were adding to the costs of its products. The White House blasted Amazon over the report, which the company promptly denied.

News Credits- FASHION NETWORK

According to founder and managing director Samir Modi, India’s Colorbar Cosmetics plans to go public in early 2027, after doubling its revenue this financial year through design upgrades, new product launches and store expansions.

Brands that cater to affluent Indian consumers have largely withstood the cost-of-living-driven slowdown in spending, as wealthier shoppers continue to invest in luxuries and personal care.

Colorbar expects to reach revenue exceeding 10 billion rupees (approximately $117 million) in the financial year beginning April 1. Growth strategies include updated packaging and continued investment in store enhancements, Modi told Reuters.

The company, currently valued between 25 billion and 35 billion rupees, intends to use proceeds from the IPO to strengthen its skincare and fragrance segments and pursue acquisitions, including international beauty brands.

Shares of comparable listed beauty players like Nykaa and Honasa Consumer have struggled since debuting, as analysts question their profitability amid rising market competition.

Colorbar, which roughly broke even last year, also faces intense competition. Its rivals include local independent labels such as Sugar Cosmetics and MyGlamm, as well as global heavyweights like Estée Lauder’s Bobbi Brown and MAC.

Established two decades ago, Colorbar offers a wide range of cosmetics—from lipsticks and foundations to skincare products such as serums and moisturizers.

The brand operates over 100 exclusive outlets and distributes through over 1,200 multibrand retailers, including major chains like Shoppers Stop and Lifestyle. It also plans to open an additional 15 to 20 stores this fiscal year.

Looking ahead, Modi said the company aims to generate up to 25% of its revenue from exports within the next five years by expanding in markets such as the United States and the Middle East.

News Credits- FASHION NETWORK

The sports company Puma has appointed Dominique Gathier as vice president of its Teamsport business unit, effective May 15. He succeeds Matthias Bäumer, who assumed the position of chief commercial officer earlier this year, and will report directly to chief product officer Maria Valdes.

The 45-year-old executive, who holds both French and German citizenship, has been with the Herzogenaurach-based company for 19 years.

Over nearly two decades, Gathier has held several key roles in marketing and product development. Most recently, he served as senior director of product line management for Teamsport footwear and equipment. In this role, he oversaw the development of Puma’s top-performing football boot models, including the Future, Ultra and King lines. He earned a degree in management from Kedge Business School in Bordeaux, France.

“With Dominique, an experienced leader will take over our Teamsport business unit, as he played a key role in developing some of our most successful performance products,” said chief product officer Maria Valdes. “I’m confident that Dominique will continue to build on Puma’s strong momentum in the Teamsport segment and bring exciting new products to market—products that will inspire athletes, whether professional or amateur, as well as teams and fans around the world.”

Gathier will lead the entire product team within the business unit in his new role. “He will be responsible for ensuring the successful development and execution of product strategies, working closely with Puma’s many external partners, including clubs and associations,” the company stated.

Puma’s Teamsport unit produces footwear, apparel and accessories for football, as well as other regionally significant sports, such as handball, rugby and cricket.

News Credits- FASHION NETWORK

German footwear maker Birkenstock raised its annual forecasts on Thursday, as second-quarter sales grew more than expected and the company sees strong demand for its pricier range of sandals and clogs.

Shares of the company were up about 5% in premarket trading.

Newer iterations of Birkenstock products such as Arizona Essentials and Madrid Big Buckle have been helping in attracting more shoppers, in turn lifting sales momentum even amid lingering tariff uncertainty.

Stronger demand for its comfort-driven designs, especially from younger customers, at retail stores such as Nordstrom and Foot Locker, have also been strengthening Birkenstock’s partnership and new store opening plans.

“We expect the tariff situation may create a unique shift in consumer behavior in the footwear category with a split between the few brands, like Birkenstock,” said Birkenstock’s CEO Oliver Reichert.

Birkenstock said it invested about 21 million euros ($23.53 million) in capital expenditure in the second quarter as it looks to expand its production capacity to cater to growing demand in regions such as the Americas.

Net revenue in the Americas, its biggest market, was up 23% in the quarter ended March 31, compared with 19% a year earlier.

The company now expects its fiscal 2025 revenue to be at the high end of its previous forecast range of 15% to 17% in constant currency basis.

It also said its annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margin would be between 31.3% and 31.8%, up from the 30.8% to 31.3% previously forecast.
The company posted quarterly revenue of 574.3 million euros, compared with analysts’ estimates of 567.7 million euros as per data compiled by LSEG.

On an adjusted basis, the company posted quarterly profit of 0.55 euros per share, compared with analysts’ estimates of 0.54 euros as per data compiled by LSEG.

News Credits- FASHION NETWORK