Welcome to The Weekly Edit, your curated digest of the latest in the world of luxury. Each week, WLCC brings you a handpicked selection of industry news, insights, and stories influencing the future of high-end fashion, design, travel, real estate, and beyond. Consider this your insider’s guide to the latest in luxury.
The Hidden Value Gap Blocking AI Adoption in Luxury
Daniel Langer argues that luxury brands struggle to scale AI because most initiatives focus on efficiency rather than emotional impact. While companies test tools like virtual stylists, tagging systems, and clienteling apps, these pilots rarely grow because they fail to align with Added Luxury Value (ALV), the psychological premium that fuels desire and loyalty. Many projects improve speed or accuracy but don’t strengthen brand meaning or deepen emotional connection. Younger clients also expect AI to function quietly in the background. Langer says real progress requires designing AI around a brand’s cultural code, emotional relevance, and signature service moments.
Via: JINGDAILY
IHG Signs Dual Agreement to Grow Portfolio in Key Saudi Markets
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed a dual management agreement with Mosa bin Abdul Aziz Al-Mosa and Sons Real Estate Holding Co. to open two new properties in Saudi Arabia: Crowne Plaza Al Khobar Al Bandariyah and Holiday Inn Riyadh Rose Yard. Together, they will add more than 330 rooms to IHG’s national portfolio and support the country’s Vision 2030 tourism goals. The Al Khobar hotel, opening in early 2027, will be located near the Corniche, with strong regional connectivity. The Riyadh property, opening in late 2026, will feature the brand’s updated Open Lobby concept. Both hotels will join IHG’s existing 46 properties across Saudi Arabia.
Via: IHG
New Multi-Property Four Seasons Journeys Bring Travelers Closer to Local Culture
Travelers craving deeper cultural meaning now have a new way to explore the world: Four Seasons has introduced Insider Itineraries, a series of multi-property journeys in Bali, Spain, and Mexico shaped directly by local Four Seasons teams. The programs combine stays across multiple hotels with exclusive access, regional expertise, and experiences that connect guests to traditions, landscapes, cuisine, and community. Each itinerary includes activities such as private museum access, wellness rituals, chef-led cooking classes, nature immersion, and behind-the-scenes artistic encounters. With a dedicated point of contact managing every detail, the collection offers an elevated approach to multi-destination travel.
Via: Four Seasons
Above: Image from LALIQUE
Paris Welcomes Lalique’s New Flagship Space
Paris sparkles anew as Lalique reimagines its historic flagship at 11 rue Royale, reopening on 18 November 2025 to mark 90 years since its first establishment at the iconic address. Designed as the apartment of a cosmopolitan artist couple, the 115 m² space blends heritage and modernity, light and material, emotion and artistry. Visitors are greeted by sixty crystal swallows in motion, luminous arches, and floral-inspired floors, exploring seven pillars of the Maison: decorative objects, interior design, tableware, jewellery, art, fragrances, and hospitality. The boutique celebrates René Lalique’s legacy while projecting a contemporary vision of the art of living.
Via: LALIQUE
Beyond the Surface: Dynamics of Extreme Wealth in 2025 By Altrata
The ultra-wealthy are reshaping global luxury. Altrata’s World Ultra Wealth Report 2025 shows that individuals with ultra-high net worth now hold unprecedented levels of wealth. Concentrated in major cities and fueled by finance, industry, and technology, this elite group drives demand for high-value goods, private jets, yachts, fine art, and experiential luxury. Younger wealth creators favor technology and innovative assets, while legacy holders focus on preservation. Beyond spending power, UHNW individuals form networks of dozens of peers, amplifying influence and opportunity. For luxury brands, understanding these trends, generational shifts, and concentrated hubs is essential to capture both consumption and connections.
Via: WLCC
LPS Shanghai
LPS Shanghai, Asia-Pacific’s leading luxury real estate exhibition, features over 180 luxury real estate developers and companies from more than 50 countries that will showcase unique properties to Chinese luxury homebuyers at the historical downtown monument – Shanghai Exhibition Center. With support from FERRETTI GROUP, HANG SHENG BANK, and over 220 Official Partners, this global event offers the perfect platform for buyers to establish connections with leading property experts, facilitating seamless interactions and business opportunities.
Information: 5-7 December | Real Estate | Shanghai, China
Via: WLCC
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