Retail in Asia

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Bluebell Group helps Manolo Blahnik to expand in-store presence in Asia

manoloFootwear brand Manolo Blahnik is expanding operations in select Asian markets through a new distribution and retail partnership with Bluebell Group.

From Autumn-Winter 2016 Bluebell group will be responsible for distribution and retail development of Manolo Blahnik in Japan, Singapore and Malaysia. They will also manage and provide support service for the existing 41 locations already operating out of Japan.

These new points of distribution will be added to Manolo Blahnik’s 290 points of sale in 33 countries worldwide. Now Manolo Blahnik has 11 existing standalone stores, including 2 in Hong Kong, 1 in Seoul, and an E-commerce platform.

hk storeManolo Blahnik Store in Hong Kong

“We are delighted to now be working with the Bluebell Group in Asia. Manolo Blahnik is a global brand but with comparatively small distribution in Japan, Malaysia and Singapore. With Bluebell now as our partners we are excited about exploring and building the business in these regions and further territories.”

Kristina Blahnik, Chief Executive Officer Manolo Blahnik.

“With a career rolling over 45 years, Manolo Blahnik has indisputably become one of the world’s most influential footwear designers. The lines and silhouette of his distinctive designs remain instantly recognizable as inimitable and chic across Asia. The brand has been at the top of our fantasy list for a long time, so today we are extremely proud and excited by our partnership in Japan and South East Asia. We see Manolo Blahnik as having a so far untapped potential, given its heritage and perfection in craftsmanship, and believe it easily talks to our sophisticated Asian clientele.”

Ashley Micklewright, President and CEO of Bluebell group.

In Japan, Bluebell Group will help Manolo Blahnik to launch its first shop-in-shop and corners in the market leading department stores. Additionally, the brand is planning its first flagship in Tokyo for 2017.

In Singapore, the longstanding Manolo Blahnik shop-in-shop in Takashimaya will now be operated by Bluebell Singapore with an interior refitting planned in autumn 2016.

In Malaysia, Manolo Blahnik will open its first standalone store in Autumn-Winter 2016. The 95 square meters’ store will be located in Pavilion Mall, Level 2 in the Speciality Retail area.

rihanna Rihanna X Manolo Blahnik capsule collection

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