<rss version="0.91">
<channel>
<title>www.bi-me.com RSS feed for &#8211; Luxury Goods &amp; Duty Free</title>
<link>http://www.bi-me.com</link>
<description>Middle Eastern Business News and Data</description>
<language>en-us</language>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Saks shares rise on report it hired Goldman Sachs for strategic options]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61931</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The luxury department store chain hired Goldman Sachs to explore strategic alternatives, including a possible sale, according to a source briefed on the matter.
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Louis Vuitton loses ground as world&#039;s most valuable luxury brand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61908</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Louis Vuitton&#039;s brand value declined 12% from a year ago to US$22.7 billion as competitors including Gucci and Prada gain, a new research report shows.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Global luxury goods market to cool in 2013, says Bain]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61904</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The total size of the market, which was 212 billion euros (US$273 billion) in 2012, would reach 250 billion by mid-decade.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Duty Free expands luxury retail portfolio]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61692</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Emporio Armani fashion boutique opens in Abu Dhabi International Airport.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[PPR sales miss casts cloud over luxury sector]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61674</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. PPR&#039;s disappointing first-quarter sales have reinforced fears that the luxury goods sector has run out of steam and reached a turning point.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dufry completes acquisition of majority stake in travel retail operations of Folli Follie ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61607</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The payment for the 51% equity stake as well as certain transaction and shareholder structuring cost were made out of Dufry Group&#039;s liquidity.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[What&#039;s in a Brand?]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61543</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Tradition, culture, craftsmanship all contribute to the brand you buy. But how much more are you willing to pay for that label and how can companies convince the consumer that these values are inherent in the (generally higher) price they pay?]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Egypt increases duties on food imports, luxury goods ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61317</link>
<description><![CDATA[EGYPT. Egypt, struggling with economic and political turmoil, is increasing custom duties for expensive food items such as shrimps as well as luxury consumer products.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[PPR to be renamed Kering to mark transformation]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61296</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. PPR, the French owner of Gucci and Puma, will change its name to Kering to cap the company&#039;s transformation into a luxury and sporting goods specialist.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[BranIndex: Hermes, Intercontinental Hotel, Subway and Dubai Mall top rankings during Dubai Shopping Festival 2013]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=61024</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. YouGov&#039;s BrandIndex highlights the five brands that witnessed the highest increase in Buzz Score during DSF 2013, by examining consumer perception across four sectors (malls, hotels &amp; resorts, dining and fashion). ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Lanvin opens new boutique in Beirut]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60892</link>
<description><![CDATA[LEBANON. Lanvin announces the opening of its new men&#039;s store in Beirut&#039;s Park Avenue which will also be offering to customers the Lanvin made-to-measure service. 
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Emirates Airlines, Samsung and Apple top 2012 YouGov BrandIndex Buzz rankings in the UAE]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60878</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Personal care brands dominate the 2012 &#039;Buzz Improvement&#039; list, with Givenchy seeing the largest increase.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Samsung &amp; Galaxy chocolate top 2012 YouGov BrandIndex rankings in Saudi Arabia]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60879</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. BrandIndex Buzz scores rate over 500 brands in 17 different sectors, revealing which brands have the most positive Buzz score in Saudi Arabia.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bentley Motors announces record sales across the Middle East ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60862</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Sales up 44% for Bentley in the Middle East; Global sales growth of 22%; Bentley remains the leading manufacturer of luxury vehicles in the world.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[LANVIN opens new boutique in Kuwait]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60861</link>
<description><![CDATA[KUWAIT. The boutique presents the new concept of Lanvin stores under the artistic direction of Alber Elbaz]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[&#039;Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience&#039; comes to the city in October]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60857</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Event marks Dubai&#039;s evolution as an international hub for fashion with the global initiative by Vogue.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Duty Free revenue rises 24% to US$220 million in 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60792</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The announcement was made today at the opening of Trinity Forum 2013, during the welcome speech from Abu Dhabi Airports Company Chief Commercial Officer, Mohammed Al Bulooki.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Alain Mouawad becomes Guardian of the Mouawad Watch Division]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60773</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Alain Mouawad, a fourth-generation member of the Mouawad family, developed an early passion for horology and the luxury watch business. This passion, coupled with his marketing expertise, has enabled him to make his mark in the timepiece industry. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Rolls-Royce Wraith unveiled ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60740</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The graceful silhouette gives expression to a bold and thoroughly contemporary luxury motor car.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Rolls-Royce Motor Cars sales up 26% in the Middle east]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60667</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Abu Dhabi and KSA in the top 5 best selling dealers around the world; Bespoke content at highest-ever levels with Middle East boasting the highest uptake globally.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Burberry third-quarter revenue up 9%]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60664</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Third quarter retail revenue was up an underlying 13% to 464 million pounds, with scarves, men&#039;s tailoring and accessories outperforming]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Swatch says will buy Harry Winston for up to US$1 billion]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60657</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The Swiss group will pay US$750 million to acquire the company and add a maximum of US$250 million to take over its net debt, a statement said.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Lady Gaga to launch first fragrance]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60655</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. LADY GAGA FAME released through the Artist&#039;s own Haus Laboratories in association with Coty.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Maserati awarded &#039;Best Italian Company in the UAE&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60612</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The iconic Italian luxury vehicle manufacturer, received the annual award following a successful year of sales growth and increased brand penetration across the Emirates. 

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bentley reveals new performance flagship convertible ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60538</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL.  The Continental GT Speed Convertible, the world&#039;s fastest four-seat convertible, makes its international debut on 14th January at the North American International Auto Show, Detroit.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Middle East is now the 10th largest luxury goods market globally, finds Bain report]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60484</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Middle East market expands by up to 15% from 2011 to 2012;  Personal luxury goods spending in the Middle East has reached US$8.2 billion.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Legendary Tiffany Diamond unveiled in Dubai]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60405</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. A Legacy of Diamonds, featuring jewelry from the Tiffany Archives, surrounding the company&#039;s greatest icon - the 128.54-carat Tiffany Diamond, celebrate Tiffany&#039;s 175th anniversary.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Italian fund buys 37.5% stake in Aston Martin]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60343</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Investindustrial is investing US$240 million in the car-maker which is owned by Kuwait-based finance firm Investment Dar, which bought it from Ford Motors for US$767.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dubai Duty Free: Best Practice case in Global Report on Innovation ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60250</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Dubai Duty Free to represent UAE in the Best Practice Report on Innovation Capacity: Best Practices in Competitiveness Strategy Issued by Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Jaguar Land Rover MENA registers best sales growth in four years]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60211</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. 12MY line-up drives sales increase of 21% and 33% for Jaguar and Land Rover respectively]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Aston Martin said to get bids for 50% stake in sports carmaker]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60199</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Investment Dar has received competing bids from Investindustrial and Mahindra &amp; Mahindra for half the sports-car maker, three people familiar with the matter said.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dubai to host newly revamped Middle East Exclusive 2012 during &#039;Duty Free Week&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60182</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Region&#039;s largest travel retail, duty free and luxury goods trade fair now linked to MEDFA Conference and Dubai Duty Free Golf World Cup.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Qatar, Italy set up joint venture to invest in Italian firms]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60147</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. Italy&#039;s strategic investment fund FSI and Qatar Holding have signed a joint venture agreement to invest in Italian companies in sectors including food, fashion and luxury.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Middle East luxury spending on the rise, reveals American Express study ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60039</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Qatari residents are biggest spenders on luxury, according to American Express Middle East Luxury Spending Tracker; Fashion accessories, cars and high-end electronic goods are preferred luxury purchases in 2012; Dubai is Middle East&#039;s preferred luxury shopping destination. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Rare Patek Phillipe up for auction in Geneva]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=60021</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Antiquorum auctioneers offers a steel Patek Philippe Ref. 1463 with asthmometer dial, the only one known, made and owned by r&Atilde;&copy;gleur Jacques Golay.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Diane von Furstenberg and evian celebrate life ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59990</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The iconic fashion designer joins forces with evian to unveil a new design for its 2013 limited edition bottle collaboration; Available in the Middle East from November 2012. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bahrain&#039;s Investcorp to buy Georg Jensen for US$140 million]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59954</link>
<description><![CDATA[BAHRAIN. Investcorp plans to expand the Danish  luxury retailer in Asia, especially China.
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Smalto and Chalhoub announce Middle East partnership ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59915</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Under the terms of the agreement, Chalhoub Inc. will become Smalto&#039;s exclusive distributor in the UAE, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain and Oman.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Record numbers at TFWA World Exhibition]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59887</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. For the first time the number of trade visitors to the exhibition and conference event exceeded 6,000; Of that total 4260 (70%) were key duty free and travel retail operators, landlords and agents from 1726 companies.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Boots opens first store at Dubai International Airport&#039;s Terminal 3  ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59869</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Boots operates in the Middle East through a partnership between Alliance Boots and M.H. Alshaya, the leading international franchise operator. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Longchamp celebrates fifty years at forefront of duty free market]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59833</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The Company Travel Retail Strategy puts a larger focus on opening exclusive Boutiques and bigger shop-in-shops, enhancing the control and quality of the brand&#039;s presence.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Analysis: Burberry smells a chance in fragrance business]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59761</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Burberry hopes it can gain better control over its brand and eventually a bigger slice of profits by running its own perfume business, a big gamble that could change the structure of the luxury goods industry.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Hackett brings the Best of British to Dubai]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59684</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Hackett business cards were handed out, with an invitation to attend a Quintessentially British Tea party upstairs at the Hackett boutique. 

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dufry share offering prices at CHF 109 per share]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59680</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dufry announces that it has successfully priced its offering of shares to finance the acquisition of  51% of the travel retail operations of Folli Follie Group.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Luxury remains resilient in the face of economic turbulence ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59642</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Fortunes of global luxury goods will rest mainly on the performance of industry&#039;s fastest growth category - luxury jewellery and timepieces, finds Euromonitor International&#039;s latest research.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[World&#039;s biggest Bentley workshop opens in Dubai]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59635</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. 189,000 sq. ft. dedicated to Bentley vehicles; One-stop shop caters for all servicing and vehicle needs; Total investment by Al Habtoor Motors of AED 300million.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Est&Atilde;&copy;e Lauder unveils new beauty brand Osiao]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59593</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Developed and created in Asia for the unique needs of Asian skin.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Louis Vuitton risks logo fatigue as Chinese tastes mature]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59579</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. &quot;Megabrands may start to show signs of suffering brand weariness owing to their early entry into several markets,&#039; writes Erwan Rambourg, an analyst at HSBC. &quot;We term this the &#039;first-mover disadvantage&#039;.&quot; ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Longchamp celebrates opening of new Mall of Emirates boutique, unveils limited edition &#039;Dubai bag&#039; ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59522</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE &quot;Dubai bag&quot; was specifically created for the UAE and incorporates elements of the country, along with signature prints from Longchamp. 
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Jaguar F-TYPE unveiled at Paris event]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59512</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Jaguar F-TYPE, an all-new two-seater sports car, is revealed to a VIP audience at Mus&Atilde;&copy;e Rodin, Paris; F-TYPE is the first two-seater sports car from Jaguar since the iconic E-type was launched 50 years ago.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Montblanc International appoints Dr. Uwe Ellinghaus as Executive Vice President Marketing &amp; Sales]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59427</link>
<description><![CDATA[Dr. Ellinghaus, 43, will take over worldwide responsibility for all marketing and sales activities of the continuously growing international luxury brand.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Rolls-Royce unveils Phantom Venus]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59380</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. a one-of-a-kind motor car inspired by the legend of the Queen of Sheba. 
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Paris Gallery plans IPO]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59313</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The retail group is planning an initial public offering it said would provide a &quot;safety net&quot; for the family-owned business and help it expand beyond the Gulf.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Middle East spending up by 70% at European Chic Outlet Shopping Villages ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59295</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Shoppers from the Middle East make up the third largest customer sector for the Chic Outlet Shopping Villages, in terms of tax refunded sales, preceded only by China and Russia respectively.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bernard Arnault&#039;s Belgian citizenship bid spurs French rich tax debate]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59259</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The decision by Arnault has created a media frenzy over tax exiles, giving the increasingly unpopular Francois Hollande a chance to grandstand. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Porsche Design celebrates 40 years of engineered luxury]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59258</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Porsche Design is presenting a very special, exclusive model of the cult P&#039;8478 sunglasses as well as two other limited special editions for its 40th anniversary.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Burberry profit warning hits shares]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59256</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Burberry shares took a hammering after the luxury goods group warned that increasingly challenging trading conditions will leave full-year profits at the lower end of market expectations.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Mouawad unveils Larme D&#039;Amour, a new jewellery collection in 18K white gold, sapphires and diamonds ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59251</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Precious tears of love and joy captured in a stunning new collection introduced across all of Mouawad&#039;s stores in the Middle East.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Pure Gold Jewellers launch colourful Fareeha collection]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59179</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Bold designs and myriad colours of Amethyst, Blue Topaz, Citrine, Peridot, Rhodolite and many more; &quot;We have based the new collection on feedback from our customers who can now express their &#039;joie de vivre&#039; in natural colours of gemstones&quot;. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Panerai launches exclusive Dubai Limited Edition timepieces inspired by the Burj Khalifa]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59164</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Luminor and Radiomir bring to life the essence of Dubai&#039;s iconic superstructure; Available exclusively in the Panerai boutique in The Dubai Mall. (See photo inside) ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Longchamp opens new Dubai store at Mall of the Emirates]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59143</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Located on the first floor of the prestigious mall, the store houses classic Longchamp leather goods ranges alongside women&#039;s ready-to-wear collections. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[UAE ranks in Top Ten importers of Swiss timepieces ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59108</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. UAE is only Middle Eastern country to be featured in the Top 10, ahead of Saudi Arabia at number 14 and Qatar at number 21; Ahmed Seddiqi &amp; Sons underscore returning consumer confidence as driving factor.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Qatar to launch own luxury brand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59102</link>
<description><![CDATA[QATAR. The launch of the brand QELA will be boosted by the opening of numerous luxe boutiques around the world, starting with Doha, Qatar&#039;s capital city by the end of the year.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Porsche adds new exclusive collections to latest Driver&#039;s Selection range]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59062</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Launched this summer, the new additions include the Colours of 1968, Retro Spirit, and 911 Collections, all of which are inspired by Porsche&#039;s long history of combining style and quality with functionality.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Beirut&#039;s &#039;DAMAC Tower&#039; raft foundation completed]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=59063</link>
<description><![CDATA[LEBANON. The US$300 million premium project, an innovative collaboration between DAMAC Properties and VERSACE HOME, will deliver the entire VERSACE lifestyle concept to discerning residents.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bentley announces new Mulsanne vision - The world&#039;s most elegant convertible]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58989</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. With the Mulsanne Convertible Concept, Bentley&#039;s designers are providing a glimpse into the potential future of the marque&#039;s flagship family. 
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Mouawad, Premier Gem establish &#039;Premier Diamond Alliance&#039; joint venture]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58980</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Leading names in the diamond and jewellery industries unite assuring a vertical integration of the two companies through the value chain of the diamond pipeline, from rough diamond production to retail sales of polished diamonds and diamond jewelry.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Qatar buys stake in luxury handbag maker Anya Hindmarch]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58946</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Qatar Luxury Group, Sheikha Mozah&#039;s luxury goods vehicle, has bought a US$42.4 miilion stake in the British luxury handbag and accessories manufacturer.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Nespresso launches Crealto, a long roast Limited Edition Grand Cru inspired by high gastronomy]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58894</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The high intensity coffee is blended entirely from washed Arabica coffee beans, and its long roasting time cooks all the notes harmoniously, allowing it to develop round roasted notes that are long-lasting.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[L Capital Asia takes equity stake in JTG food emporium]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58887</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Private equity fund sponsored by LVMH takes an equity stake in jones the grocer (JTG), a leading food emporium from Australia, proven to be highly successful across geographies such as South East Asia and the Middle East.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Duty first half revenue jumps 29.1% to US$103.6 million]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58763</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The growth was propelled by ADDF&#039;s record breaking second quarter as it outperforms the recently announced increase of 22.8% in passenger traffic at Abu Dhabi International Airport.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dufry sees strong growth and margin expansion in first half 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58740</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Dufry reports turnover growth of 28.4%, gross margin increase of 0.8% and reaching 58.8%. EBITDA grew by 48.4% to CHF 220.1 million and EBITDA margin reached 14.5%, 190 bps higher than in the same period in 2011.

]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Jones Lang La Salle publishes &#039;Milan loves Shopping&#039; report on retail real estate trends ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58677</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. With Milan and Italy continuing to be a top retail destination for many UAE and Middle Eastern residents, the report analyzes the real estate market of the nine main fashion streets in Milan. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[The Est&Atilde;&copy;e Lauder Companies names Tracey T. Travis Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58634</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Ms. Travis brings a wealth of global financial experience, having worked for a number of Fortune 500 consumer product companies in a variety of industries during her career.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Middle East luxury market to grow 15% in 2012]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58617</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The Middle East remains a crucial component in the sustained growth of the global luxury market; Global luxury goods market to increase 6%-7% in 2012 according to Spring update of Bain &amp; Company&#039;s worldwide study.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Anglo Arab Alliance celebrates UK launch amidst the best in British luxury]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58602</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. &quot;British luxury is largely underrepresented in the Middle East and we feel we have now laid a solid foundation for continued growth and development as we look to promote top-end British brands.&quot;]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Shoppers speeding up shift from products to experiences in global &amp; GCC luxury markets, finds The Boston Consulting Group]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58589</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The GCC is yet to realize its full potential as a luxury tourist hub: &quot;The ever increasing importance of experiential luxury puts the GCC countries in a very good position, especially in terms of their actively developing tourism offerings.&quot;]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Burberry to end InterParfums deal]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58569</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Burberry has served notice of its intention to end its fragrance and beauty products licence agreement with InterParfums at the end of the year, though talks with the French company continue.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Sheikh Salah Al Balawi to chair Anglo Arab Alliance]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58565</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The Anglo Arab Alliance (AAA) provides British luxury brands easy and efficient access into the lucrative Middle Eastern market.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Jaguar adds local impetus to global &#039;ALIVE&#039; brand campaign]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58521</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Online films capture talented individuals from MENA region telling Jaguar what makes them feel ALIVE.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Vuitton US$11 million diamond seen elevating luxury brand]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58512</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. As Louis Vuitton products become more ubiquitous, the Place Vendome store &quot;is an attempt to anchor the brand at the highest possible level.&quot;
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Burberry&#039;s slowing revenue growth causes luxury goods wobble]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58516</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Burberry reported a slowdown in first-quarter sales growth that trailed analysts&#039; estimates as revenue from its licensing business fell, signaling a possible slowdown for the luxury-goods industry. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Rolls-Royce reports 22% increase in first half Middle East sales]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58495</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Saudi Arabia in particular has maintained an exceptional growth, with the UAE, Qatar, and other markets achieving robust growth rates individually, all fuelled by remarkably high demand for Ghost models and a sustained demand for Phantom. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Luxury retailers ride travel boom, eye new horizons]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58492</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Sales at airports and other travel venues have risen far more quickly in recent years than at regular stores for many luxury goods groups, putting this area of retailing front and center in many companies&#039; expansion plans.
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Louis Vuitton opens first Watches &amp; Jewelry store in Paris ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58484</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. The Maison Louis Vuitton opened its first store exclusively dedicated to fine jewellery and watchmaking along with its first fine jewellery workshop at 23, Place Vend&Atilde;&acute;me. 
]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Oetker Collection and Guerlain sign exclusive spa partnership]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58483</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Palais Namaskar in Marrakech, the new pearl of the Oetker Collection which opened its doors a few weeks ago, is the first hotel to benefit from this partnership.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Qatar Royal family may buy Valentino Fashion Group]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58477</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Qatar&#039;s royal family is close to buying Valentino Fashion Group from Permira Holding for GBP550 million with an announcement expected this week.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bentley sales leap by a third ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58471</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Six month results up 32%; US overtakes China to re-emerge as largest market; Sales of Bentley&#039;s flagship Mulsanne up 30%.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dubai Duty Free  secures expanded US$1.75 billion loan]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58460</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. The six-year senior, unsecured syndicated credit facility will comprise a conventional term loan facility and Islamic facilities to fund expansion of the emirate&#039;s international airport.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[First luxury boutiques open at &#039;Avenue at Etihad Towers&#039;]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58455</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Burberry, Cartier, Herm&Atilde;&uml;s, Manolo Blahnik, Van Cleef &amp; Arpels and Versace open at Abu Dhabi&#039;s first standalone high-end luxury shopping destination.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Abu Dhabi Duty Free launches largest-ever Dollar Millionaire Competition]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58402</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Region&#039;s largest ever cash draw over a period of one month with US$1million dollar grand prize and additional cash prizes.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[In US funding, even luxury names like cheap prices]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58393</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, one of the world&#039;s biggest and most prestigious luxury goods empires, is not the first name that comes to mind when you think of super-cheap prices.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Aston Martin unveils the AM 310 Vanquish]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58257</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. AM 310 Vanquish is a new Aston Martin featuring the next generation of the renowned VH architecture as well as a significantly upgraded 6.0-litre V12 engine that is considerably more potent than before.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Bentley to debut new model at 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58229</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. With a mix of contemporary and classic models, Bentley has its largest ever presence at the world-famous event, running from Friday 29th June to Sunday 1st July.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[EU bans exports of luxury goods to Syria]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58214</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Move covers  luxury shoes, boats, truffles, jewellery, caviar as well as goods with possible military applications, in an effort to step up the pressure on President Bashar al-Assad&#039;s government and family.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Dubai art market forced to shift gears]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58157</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. After a decade of success that has established it rapidly as a regional financial, trade, tourism and retail centre, Dubai has discovered there really are some things money can&#039;t buy.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Luxury goods sales to rise 7% per year, says BCG]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58155</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Growth in so-called experiential luxury, such as adventure travel, spas and hotels will outpace growth of goods such as watches and designer gowns, BCG projected.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Middle East high net worth individuals hold 41% of their treasure assets for financial motivations, ranking the region highest globally]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58116</link>
<description><![CDATA[UAE. Globally, HNWIs hold on average 10% of their total net worth in treasure assets, compared to 18% in the UAE, 17% in Saudi Arabia and 2% in Qatar; 41% of global respondents feel that there is a duty to share their treasure assets for the good of society.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[The Anglo Arab Alliance gains Royal support]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58016</link>
<description><![CDATA[SAUDI ARABIA. HRH Pince Faisal-Al-Saud lends his influence to company set up specifically to allow the best of British luxury brands gain a foothold into Middle Eastern markets.]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title><![CDATA[Clinique named &#039;Top Riser&#039; brand in the 2012 BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands report ]]></title>'
<link>http://www.bi-me.com/main.php?c=3&amp;cg=2&amp;t=1&amp;id=58008</link>
<description><![CDATA[INTERNATIONAL. Conducted by influential market research firm Millward Brown, Clinique was included among brands such as Facebook, Starbucks, MasterCard, Ralph Lauren and Herm&Atilde;&uml;s. ]]></description>
</item>
</channel>
</rss>
