Issue no. 276

Everything All Right!

Dear reader, "All clear" is the title of this issue, but nothing seems clear for people nowadays. The progression of globalization, and of course the financial crisis, which shook the foundations of the global economy, has resulted in a lot of uncertain feelings. We withdraw to within our own four walls that promise protection and security, affinity and community. There is a growing desire for the genuine, honest and unambiguous, and consumers have a clear idea about this. Poor zeitgeist imitations and artificial lifestyle concepts are recognized and rejected. Now the era is upon us of brands that stand for tried and tested, authentic values; that stimulate emotions and enjoy the trust of the people. The Edwatchword of the moment appears to be "try nothing experimental."
We have noted the general mood also has its effect on the enthusiasm of shop constructors, designers and dressers. We seek new shop concepts, but scarcely find any. We look for innovative window dressing - but instead experience a kind of déja-vu. Undertake a search for the ground-breaking design of the 21st Century and you stumble on a retro trend everywhere. We also saw this at the Global Department Store Summit in New York, where the most innovative department store is chosen. In the final rounds the choice is between Bloomingdale's, Lane Crawford (Hong Kong) and Selfridges. Names we have been familiar with for years. They stand for authenticity and credibility - but also for innovation?

We think innovation and individuality must remain the driving forces in our industry. We are not keen on a uniform global mishmash. Authentic brands must be equally innovative in their shop design and visual merchandising, in order to constantly present fresh approaches that surprise and inspire people with spectacular worlds of experience. Our industry needs that wow effect - then the consumers are more than willing to be seduced! All clear now?