Iconic luxury footwear brand, Manolo Blahnik Group, has announced a new joint venture in the Hong Kong market with Bluebell Group, a prominent luxury brand operator in Asia, with the first store located in Lee Gardens.
This partnership marks an expansion of Manolo Blahnik and Bluebell Group’s collaborations across various Asian markets, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan, which have flourished since 2016.
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By entering the Hong Kong market, Manolo Blahnik aims to bolster the brand’s strategic growth plans in the Asia Pacific region, supported by Bluebell Group.
“We are delighted to be entering the next phase of our relationship with Bluebell Group as we look to develop Manolo Blahnik’s presence in Hong Kong and consolidate our position in this dynamic market. Bluebell Group has been our established partner since 2016 and the mutual trust we have in each other has given us this wonderful new opportunity to enhance our offering in Hong Kong and tell the incredibly rich story of our heritage and craft,” said Kristina Blahnik, CEO of Manolo Blahnik.
Ashley Micklewright, president and CEO of the Bluebell Group, said, “We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Manolo Blahnik, a name that represents true artistry and luxury in the fashion world. Our strong relationship with the brand in other key Asian markets and our ongoing mutual trust has paved the way for this exciting partnership into Hong Kong.”
The joint venture officially commenced over the weekend, coinciding with the opening of the Manolo Blahnik boutique in the prestigious Lee Gardens shopping mall in Causeway Bay on March 22.
Two additional store openings are planned for 2024, including a boutique in the upscale Pacific Place shopping mall, slated for the final quarter of the year. The location of the third store has not been disclosed.
Overseeing the brand’s operations in this market is Samy Redjeb, Greater China managing director at Bluebell Group. “Through our shared values and passion for delivering excellence and a superior shopping experience, we are confident that the people of Hong Kong will continue to embrace Manolo Blahnik’s unique blend of craftsmanship and creativity,” Redjeb said.
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Designed by the esteemed Nick Leith-Smith Architecture and Design, the Lee Gardens boutique features a geometric design, highlighted by a striking square panelled shelving system visible through the curved glass storefront. Inspired by the original concept employed at the Manolo Blahnik boutique in Burlington Arcade, this design has been updated with an oriental twist, featuring silk colour gradient lining on the shelves where classic, seasonal, and exclusive products are elegantly displayed.
The store occupies a prime retail location, aiming to provide an exceptional shopping experience, unparalleled customer service, and a thoughtfully curated product selection.
Retail in Asia is part of Bluebell Group.