Luxury Headlines – 05/05/2026
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Estée Lauder Expands into Science-Driven Luxury with 111Skin Investment
The Estée Lauder Companies has acquired a minority stake in 111Skin, a London-based luxury skincare brand founded by plastic surgeon Dr. Yannis Alexandrides, distributed at Harrods, Bluemercury and Aman, among others, alongside the DTC business. This strategic move aligns with Lauder’s "Beauty Reimagined" vision, targeting the growing intersection of medical procedures, longevity, and high-performance beauty. 111Skin is renowned for its proprietary NAC Y2 complex and treatment-inspired formulas, with products priced up to $1,000. While the terms of the sale were not disclosed, the brand generates estimated annual sales of $40 million to $50 million, with North America accounting for 40% of revenue.
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Puig Q1 2026 Performance Highlights Resilient Market Growth
For Q1 2026, Puig posted revenues of €1,215 million. This performance represents a +4.7% like-for-like increase (+0.8% reported), with significant gains in Makeup (+9.2%) and Fragrance and Fashion (+3.9%), driven by niche brands. Skincare also saw a steady +4.7% rise. Regionally, Asia Pacific outperformed with an increase of +26.1%, while EMEA and the Americas grew by +3% and +2%, respectively. On the corporate front, Puig confirmed potential merger discussions with The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. The group reaffirmed its FY 2026 outlook, aiming to exceed premium market growth while holding Adjusted EBITDA margins stable against a difficult cost backdrop.
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Aston Martin Delivers In-Line Q1 2026 Results
In line with its full-year guidance, Aston Martin delivered Q1 2026 results with total revenue reaching £270.4 million, representing a +16% increase year-over-year. While total wholesale volume remained stable at 939 units, the group achieved a gross margin expansion to 35%, driven by product mix and the successful execution of its transformation program. By region, the Americas led with a +11% increase in volume, reflecting strong demand for Specials. Although the UK experienced a -26% decline due to delivery timing, core retail demand remained exceptionally strong, outpacing wholesale volumes by over 50%. Despite a complex macroeconomic and geopolitical landscape, Aston Martin remains confident in its unchanged FY 2026 guidance.
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Prada Group Delivers Solid Q1 2026 Growth Despite Regional Instability
In Q1 2026, Prada Group delivered +14% revenue growth of €1.428 billion at constant exchange rates (+3% organic) . Revenue growth occurred despite a high prior-year comparison base and geopolitical instability, driven by a +84% increase in royalties, +40% in wholesale, and +10% in retail. Regionally, the Americas led with a +34% increase, while Asia Pacific grew +13% supported by strong performance in Greater China and Korea. Europe and Japan remained resilient at +2% and +1% respectively, though the Middle East saw a -22% contraction. By brand, Prada revenues were flat, while Miu Miu achieved +2.4% growth against demanding benchmarks. Meanwhile, Versace’s integration continued via organizational optimization, positioning the Group for top-tier competitive growth.
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Alaïa Opens a New Boutique in Bangkok, Thailand
Expanding its global footprint, Alaïa launched its first Thai boutique within Bangkok’s Central Embassy mall. The new space, designed by Halleroed, features a signature perforated facade, Carrara marble, and collectible furniture by Philippe Malouin and Sergio Rodrigues. Under Richemont's ownership, the house has quadrupled its retail network to 20 locations, with upcoming flagships planned for the Miami Design District and Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles. While further Asian expansion targets Japan and South Korea, this milestone is happening during a leadership transition following Pieter Mulier’s departure, as the brand continues its "step-by-step" growth strategy.
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Chanel Debuts First Coco Beach Pop-Up in Shanghai
Chanel has launched its inaugural Coco Beach pop-up in Shanghai’s historic Hengshan-Fuxing district, showcasing Matthieu Blazy’s first summer collection for the house. Set in a three-story Spanish-style villa, the space features immersive underwater-themed decor and exclusive items like a Chanel surfboard. The retail experience includes dedicated zones for swimwear, footwear, and beach essentials.
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Maria Grazia Chiuri Returns to Rome for Fendi Debut
Maria Grazia Chiuri will present her debut fall 2026 couture collection for Fendi in Rome on July 9, 2026. This event marks a significant homecoming for both the brand and the designer, who began her career at Fendi in 1989 before her 10-year tenure at Dior. This show will be Fendi’s 3rd time hosting in Rome, following iconic shows at the Trevi Fountain (2016) for Karl Lagerfeld and the Temple of Venus (2019) for Silvia Venturini.
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Nobu 619 Brickell Sets a New Standard for Wellness in Miami
Nobu Hospitality, in partnership with 13th Floor Investments and Key International, has unveiled its inaugural residential project in Miami: 619 Brickell. This 75-story tower, designed by Foster + Partners and Sieger-Suarez Architects are scheduled for completion in 2031. The development features 300 residences, including exclusive sky villas and penthouses, with pricing ranging from $3 million to $60 million. Distinguished by a $25 million investment in biohacking and longevity, the Nobu Wellness & Longevity spa offers cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and IV peptide therapy. Beyond world-class fitness and aquatic facilities, residents enjoy curated dining experiences, including a private Nobu restaurant and poolside café. This project seamlessly integrates high-end hospitality with cutting-edge health optimization and panoramic Biscayne Bay views.
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Montenegro Aman Sveti Stefan to Reopen
Aman Sveti Stefan has announced its highly anticipated return to Montenegro’s Adriatic coast for the 2026 season. The mainland retreat, Villa Miločer, along with the Aman Spa and private beaches, will reopen on 22 May 2026, followed by the iconic fortified island of Sveti Stefan on 1 July 2026. The resort offers a blend of historic 19th-century elegance and restored medieval architecture. It prioritizes wellness and longevity through its standalone spa, where hydrotherapy and local botanical treatments are offered. A high-tech fitness Centre and indoor-outdoor pool are available, while the cucina del raccolto dining philosophy focuses on fresh, seasonal harvests for optimal nutrition.
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Charles Leclerc Joins L’Oréal Paris as Global Ambassador
L'Oréal Paris has appointed Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc, known as Mr. Pole Position, as its newest global ambassador for the Men Expert and hair care collections. He will appear in campaigns across grooming and hair, beginning with a June launch for Men Expert Hydra Energetic.
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