Month: August 2025

The World Luxury Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the Senior Management Program 2025, a program in partnership with SDA Bocconi School of Management and ESMT Berlin. This program is thoughtfully constructed to provide senior executives with the strategic foresight and fresh approaches necessary to navigate the intricate and unpredictable global business environment of today. 

How does the Program Address Today’s Leadership Challenges? 

In a period where leaders are increasingly called upon to balance immediate demands with long-term viability, the Senior Management Program aims to broaden perspectives and introduce new viewpoints for those at the pinnacle of their professional journeys. It assists senior managers in foreseeing and adjusting to rapid shifts by interpreting the evolving business context and its wider influence. These principles reflect the vision of the Open Programs Division at SDA Bocconi, led by Associate Dean Emanuela Prandelli, which is deeply committed to supporting the transformation of business and work in a truly sustainable way. At the core of this mission is the belief that managerial education is a key driver of change—equipping leaders to build organizations that are both economically sound and socially responsible.  

Learning Approach 

The 2025 edition, extending over six days and structured into two distinct modules (totaling 48 equivalent hours), will be hosted in two prominent European cities: Berlin and Milan. Module I, titled “Looking outside: making sense of the context of senior leadership,” will run from September 10 to 12, 2025, at ESMT Berlin. This segment will explore the broader macro environment and emerging trends, including geo-economics, geopolitics, financial dynamics, technological advancements, and environmental and social factors. Participants will reflect on how these elements shape the evolution of senior management and learn to formulate non-market strategies, managing stakeholders and their concerns within this larger context. Experiential games will introduce “ambidextrous leadership,” setting the foundation for the subsequent module. 

Module II, “Looking inside: setting the stage for sustainable value creation and change,” will be conducted from September 29 to October 1, 2025, at SDA Bocconi in Milan. This part of the program concentrates on moving from strategy formulation to successful implementation. Key areas of study include a scientific approach to strategic decision-making, utilizing risk management to enable precise execution and foster innovation in complex settings, corporate governance, data management, and the crucial role of innovation. Furthermore, it addresses how to achieve outstanding performance and well-being by leveraging human and social capital. The learning methods are diverse and interactive, incorporating lectures, executive coaching, action planning, self-assessments, simulations, webinars, business cases, project work, and peer coaching, all designed to ensure direct applicability of concepts. 

Apply to Meet Your Goals  

This program is specifically designed for seasoned executives boasting more than 15 years of experience. This includes individuals currently serving as or aspiring to be CEOs, Managing Directors, Business Unit Leaders, Country Managers, C-level executives, plant managers, or heads of various functions. It is ideal for those seeking to explore new career avenues and strengthen their leadership abilities.. A significant advantage of joining is gaining entry to the extensive Bocconi Alumni Community, including: 

• A wide-reaching international network  
• Comprising over 140,000 professionals  
• Spanning 133 countries.  

Gabriella Bagnato, Tenured Lecturer in Leadership and SDA Bocconi Director of the program, highlights that “Continuous learning is not just a necessity but a strategic imperative for senior managers, to stay ahead of industry trends, refine their strategic vision, and drive organizational success.” 

Why Choose SDA Bocconi?  

SDA Bocconi consistently ranks among the world’s leading business schools, recognized for its continuous advancement and the development of individuals and organizations. It holds a strong global presence, with its main campus in Milan, a new location in Rome, and a pan-Asian hub in Mumbai. The institution’s commitment to academic rigor and its openness to the world ensure a learning experience that is both deep and globally relevant.  

Through this collaboration with ESMT Berlin, SDA Bocconi offers a distinct chance for executives to lead with purpose and guide organizational prosperity in a constantly changing world. 

For more information or to apply, please visit: https://worldluxurychamber.com/events/senior-management-program/  

To see upcoming programs, visit https://worldluxurychamber.com/development/  

It is said that prestige labels may have grown used to raising prices without much resistance, but that momentum is slowing. The era of automatic markups may be giving way to a more cautious, buyer-sensitive approach.

High-end brands are beginning to ease off on price increases after years of upward momentum. Companies such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton have been more measured with their pricing in 2023 and 2024, especially in regions where shoppers are growing more cautious. This follows a period during the pandemic when luxury prices rose steadily. While the sector overall remains healthy, the pace of price hikes is now slower, a shift that reflects changing consumer behavior and growing pushback.

Key takeaways from the article:

• Slower price growth: Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton have applied more moderate or paused increases in 2023–2024, especially in Asia and Europe.
  
• Consumer resistance: Some shoppers are beginning to delay purchases or express concern over perceived value, especially when quality and materials remain constant.
  
• Regional price sensitivity: Markets like South Korea and Japan are showing signs of fatigue, while Chinese buyers, once known for their willingness to pay a premium, are becoming more cautious.
  
• Customer feedback matters: Analysts suggest that luxury buyers are now more vocal about their expectations. Pricing decisions are increasingly influenced by online sentiment, peer reviews, and market mood.
  
• Luxury still holds value: While price growth is softening, most shoppers haven’t abandoned high-end purchases altogether. The desire is still there, just with a sharper eye on justification.
  

As luxury goods become ever more exposed to global consumer scrutiny, brands are finding themselves in a more delicate balancing act: maintaining exclusivity without alienating loyal buyers.

Brands need to learn how to read the room, paying closer attention to how and when they raise costs. While exclusivity remains a cornerstone of high-end fashion, today’s consumers (empowered by information and digital access) are more likely to expect transparency and logic behind pricing. The message is clear: value still matters, even at the highest levels of retail.

Stay up to date on the latest luxury industry news: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news         

SOURCES: CNA LUXURY, FINANCIAL TIMES

The World Luxury Chamber of Commerce (WLCC) is proud to announce the induction of AirportAssist.com, a trailblazer in luxury airport concierge services, into its exclusive global community of luxury leaders. This prestigious membership reflects AirportAssist.com’s exceptional commitment to personalized, high-end travel support that redefines the airport experience for discerning travelers around the world.

AirportAssist.com offers VIP, Meet and Greet, Fast Track, Lounge Access, and Airport Pick-up and Drop-off services in over 1156 airports across 195 countries. With a multilingual and multinational team and a focus on personalization, the brand ensures smooth transitions for VVIPs, VIPs, CIPs, CXOs, HNIs, Celebrities, and Families / Travelers in airports across the world. Since its founding in 2014, the company has continuously elevated the standard of airport hospitality, transforming the often-stressful travel process into a seamless, indulgent experience.

Membership in WLCC offers AirportAssist.com access to a high-caliber community of global luxury innovators, opportunities for cross-sector partnerships, and expanded global visibility. Their inclusion brings fresh insight into the ever-evolving intersection of luxury, travel, and technology.

“We are honored to welcome AirportAssist.com to the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce,” said Alexander Chetchikov, President of WLCC. “Their dedication to transforming travel with meticulous, customer-first services speaks directly to the values we uphold across our global membership. We believe their expertise and global reach will greatly enrich our network.”

To explore AirportAssist.com and elevate your next journey with premium, white-glove service at airports around the world, visit www.airportassist.com.

About AirportAssist.com

Founded in 2014, AirportAssist.com is a global leader in VIP and airport assistance services providing services in over 1156 airports across 195 countries. The company specializes in providing seamless, personalized, and stress-free airport experiences for VVIPs, VIPs, CIPs, CXOs, HNIs, Celebrities, Families, and Travelers with unique needs. With a multilingual and multinational team, AirportAssist.com combines cutting-edge technology, meticulous attention to detail, and empathetic human interaction to deliver world-class services. Key offerings include Meet and Greet, Fast Track, Lounge Access, Baggage Assistance / Porter Service, and Airport Transfers (Pick-ups and Drop-offs). Committed to inclusivity and excellence, AirportAssist.com ensures every journey – whether for business or leisure – is smooth, sophisticated, exclusive, and truly luxurious.

For more information, please visit https://airportassist.com.

Above: Image from Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

Tokyo’s skyline now features a fresh symbol of refined hospitality as Fairmont Hotels and Resorts makes its first appearance in Japan. With the opening of Fairmont Tokyo, the brand invites travelers to experience a distinctive blend of global luxury and Japanese tradition, setting a new standard for high-end stays in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Fairmont Tokyo is situated in a prime location, offering impressive views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks. The hotel features a range of luxury accommodations designed to provide comfort and style for both leisure and business travelers. Guests can expect exceptional service combined with thoughtfully designed spaces that honor the cultural heritage of Tokyo.

Interesting Hotel Highlights:

• Rooms and Suites: Spacious and elegantly designed, with modern amenities and panoramic views.
• Dining Options: Multiple restaurants and bars that showcase both international cuisine and Japanese flavors, crafted by renowned chefs.
• Wellness Facilities: A full-service spa, fitness center, and wellness programs aimed at relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Event Spaces: Versatile meeting and event venues equipped with advanced technology, ideal for business gatherings and celebrations.
• Sustainability: The hotel incorporates eco-friendly practices aligned with Fairmont’s global efforts to reduce environmental impact.

The property thoughtfully integrates elements inspired by Tokyo’s rich traditions and contemporary lifestyle. Artworks and design touches throughout the hotel reflect Japan’s heritage, creating an atmosphere that respects and celebrates its surroundings.

Fairmont Tokyo’s arrival signals a new chapter for the brand in Asia, offering travelers an elevated experience that combines international hospitality standards with local authenticity. This debut reinforces Fairmont’s strategy to expand in key global cities while maintaining a strong connection to each destination’s unique character.

Stay up to date on the latest luxury industry news: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news         

SOURCES: LLM

A new wave is altering Europe’s high-end market, and it’s not coming from the usual clientele. In 2024, the sector grew to nearly €110 billion, marking a 3% increase despite global economic uncertainty. But this rise isn’t fueled by status-driven spending or legacy buyers. It’s younger consumers, especially Gen Z, who are steering luxury in a fresh direction, one shaped by emotion, spontaneity, and discovery through platforms like TikTok.

One of the most noticeable trends is the rise of “self-gifting.” Young buyers are increasingly purchasing luxury goods not to show off, but to reward themselves, boost their mood, or mark special moments in their everyday lives. The idea of buying something just because it feels good, without waiting for a special occasion, is taking hold, especially among those under 30. On TikTok, the popularity of self-gifting has surged, with creators openly sharing their purchases and the reasons behind them. This honest, personal style of communication is proving far more persuasive than traditional advertising.

TikTok’s influence goes beyond inspiration — it’s changing how people find and trust luxury brands. Many shoppers now discover products through content shared by creators rather than through ads or shop visits. This form of digital word-of-mouth helps users feel more confident in their choices, especially when the content feels relatable. A successful example of this approach was a recent Burberry campaign showing actors from The Crown doing something as ordinary as making a cup of tea. The casual setting resonated with audiences, showing that luxury can be part of everyday life.

Eastern Europe is also seeing strong results. In Poland, for example, the luxury sector grew by 24% in 2023, one of the fastest increases in Europe. Polish beauty and accessory brands are capitalizing on the current mood, utilizing storytelling on platforms like TikTok to garner broader attention. Rather than focusing on exclusivity, they often highlight daily rituals, heritage, and personal stories, which make their products feel more meaningful and easier to connect with.

Gen Z shoppers want something that resonates with them emotionally and fits seamlessly into their lives, not something that puts them on a pedestal. With TikTok shaping buying habits and emotional value taking center stage, luxury brands are rethinking how they present themselves.

Stay up to date on the latest luxury industry news: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news        

SOURCES: EURONEWS