Friday 15 March 2019

MCM brings Angelino flair to Rodeo Drive

German luxury brand MCM has opened its first global flagship store in Los Angeles. The new 4,427sq ft store is located on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills.

The two-storey polished brass façade, designed by Kenneth Park, derives from the signature studs and gems on MCM merchandise, aiming to bring flair to Rodeo Drive while still using the brand's heritage in a luxurious Angelino style. This design element is highlighted by the brass facets on the upper portion of the storefront, mirroring the classic design of the MCM logo plate. Flanking the façade on either side are large LED displays with dynamic ever-changing imagery.

MCM's flagship store in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles

"MCM Beverly Hills global flagship location brings the brand's luxury German heritage, innovative design, thoughtful architecture and cutting-edge technology to one of the most iconic shopping destinations in the world, Rodeo Drive," said Patrick Valeo, President, MCM, the Americas. "We are so excited to be on Rodeo Drive as we continue our aggressive US expansion. This is our fifth location in California alone."

DJ booth and bar in VIP event space

Inside, the brand has integrated technology with an interactive photobooth by Hypno. Bringing a new meaning to "Instagrammable moment", the brand has incorporated an oversized custom MCM Visetos bear into the photobooth frame, giving customers the option of uploading their photo to their own Instagram account at that moment. 

In addition, a glass mosaic handcrafted in Italy that mimicks the brand’s logo is featured on the wall by the main staircase. In keeping with the brand's dedication to music, and its role in hip-hop culture, a DJ booth and bar are located on the second floor, creating a vintage feel to a secluded VIP event space. 

The Rodeo Drive store will carry exclusive products, including an MCM Visetos Vespa, Visetos ping pong rackets and branded balls, a Visetos chess set, and MCM/Rodeo Drive belt bags, backpacks, T-shirts, polos and sweatshirts.

This is MCM's 17th store in the US. The German brand operates more than 650 stores worldwide with locations in over 40 countries.

Sunday 10 March 2019

The Glenlivet marks Dubai Duty Free milestone

French liquor group Pernod Ricard has introduced an “incredibly rare” The Glenlivet Dubai Duty Free 35th Anniversary edition whisky, to mark the leading travel retailer’s 35th birthday. Only 35 bottles have been made. 

This rich and characterful single malt Scotch, retailing at $10,000 per bottle, is exclusive to travellers visiting Dubai Duty Free stores.

The Glenlivet Dubai Duty Free 35th Anniversary edition whisky

This rare and luxurious bottling was matured in a hand-selected cask for over 35 years, carefully chosen for its rich character. The resulting liquid boasts complex layers of flavour, aroma, colour and texture, supported by The Glenlivet’s signature distillery character.

The unhurried maturation has produced a beautifully balanced whisky, teasing ripe sweet peach, pear and strawberry jam notes on the nose before gracing the palate with notes of luscious tropical sweet kiwi, honey dew melon and a hint of cinnamon with ginger biscuits. A long, sweet lingering finish with a touch of spice leaves a lasting taste experience, the company said.

Just 35 bottles of The Glenlivet Dubai Duty Free 35th Anniversary edition whisky are available to purchase now, exclusively from Dubai Duty Free.