The WLCC 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.
Lux-Scaping: The Rise of Strategic Luxury Travel
In 2026, travelers are rethinking how they spend on luxury. Instead of booking an entire high-end holiday, many now add a short luxury stay to the beginning or end of a standard trip. This approach delivers stronger memories, a better sense of value, and less financial strain. Behavioral insights show travelers remember peak and final moments most, making these short upgrades especially impactful. The trend is especially popular in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where travelers seek iconic hotels and standout experiences. It also supports more intentional travel by focusing spending on fewer, higher-quality stays.
Via: Hotel & Catering
Damiani Group to Acquire Baume & Mercier from Richemont
Richemont and the Damiani Group have reached an agreement for the Damiani Group to acquire full ownership of Swiss watchmaker Baume & Mercier in a private transaction. The acquisition strengthens Damiani’s hard luxury portfolio and adds a watchmaking Maison with nearly two centuries of heritage. Both groups agree Baume & Mercier is well-suited to Damiani’s strong presence in Italy and its multi-brand distribution model, as well as the brand’s accessible position within luxury watchmaking. Damiani plans to grow the Maison through wider distribution and select boutiques, while Richemont will support operations during a transitional period. Completion is expected in summer 2026.
Via: Richemont | Image via Baume & Mercier LinkedIn
L’Oréal Invests €326 Million in India Beauty-Tech Hub
L’Oréal will invest approximately €326 million to build its first global beauty-tech hub in India, located in Hyderabad. The facility will serve as a central base for technology-led work across data, analytics, and supply chain operations, supporting L’Oréal’s global business while creating around 2,000 jobs locally. Announced following meetings at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the move reflects L’Oréal’s long-term commitment to India, where it has operated since 1994 and manufactures most products locally. The investment builds on strong sales growth and complements existing research, development, and manufacturing sites across the country.
Via: Luxury Tribune
Global Luxury Real Estate Outlook 2026 by Sotheby’s International Realty
Sotheby’s International Realty’s 2026 Luxury Outlook shows that high-end property continues to operate independently from the wider housing market. While affordability pressures weigh on mainstream real estate, luxury transactions remain supported by equity-rich buyers, international demand, and cash-driven purchases. Shifting demographics, especially the transfer of wealth to younger generations, are reshaping buyer profiles and priorities. Lifestyle, security, and long-term family considerations now outweigh short-term returns. Global buyers are increasingly selective, favoring stable markets with strong legal frameworks and enduring appeal. For luxury stakeholders, success depends on timing, pricing discipline, and a clear understanding of cross-border capital flows and evolving lifestyle expectations.
Via: WLCC | Sotheby’s International Realty
Luxury People Podcast | Episode 4 with Iyad Rasbey
In Episode 4 of the Luxury People Podcast, António Paraíso speaks with Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, on what gives a luxury destination lasting relevance. Rasbey explains why authenticity, rather than scale or spectacle, has become the key differentiator in global luxury travel. The conversation explores Ras Al Khaimah’s rapid evolution, its focus on nature-led experiences, and the importance of safeguarding local culture while expanding internationally. Insights also cover leadership during crisis, collaboration across sectors, and how meaningful travel experiences are replacing status-driven consumption in today’s luxury landscape.
Via: WLCC / YouTube
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