Issuu

WO R LD LU XU RYCH A MBER .C O M

ISSUE 6 | SEPTEMBER 2026

World Luxury Day

2026

FROM A DAY

TO A GLOBAL MOVEMENT

EXCLUSIVE FEATURES LANCIA SOANS CHRIS & RYAN RAVEIS LUCILA AGUILAR KIRK CHAMBERLAIN

Rachel Walsh

ANU RUOHOSTO

Building Brands People Desire

& more

Contents 36

COVER STORY

ACHEL WALSH R Why Meaning Matters More Than Attention

Great companies sell products;

EXCLUSIVES

ASON MARGETTS J Building Trust in Luxury Real Estate

NU RUOHOSTO A Emotion, Memory, and Modern Perfumery

UCILA AGUILAR L Nature, Authenticity, and the New Measure of Luxury

CHILLEAS KOUKKOS A Personalized Luxury Travel in Greece

ANCIA SOANS L Beyond Status, Toward Significance

INA BUSTILLO L Authenticity Wasn't Lost. It Stopped Being Seen

ALEK SEMAR M Water Is Life, and It Is Even Better at Palace Merano

IRK CHAMBERLAIN K Why Boutique Service Still Wins Luxury Clients

ANESSA FUKUNAGA V People First, Luxury Always

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GREAT BRANDS INSPIRE BELIEF. - Jason Margetts, Group Chief Sales Officer, ROSHN Group

16 56

HRIS & RYAN RAVEIS C Five Decades, One Family Vision

ANIEL LAVENDER D Where Hospitality Meets Lifelong Wellbeing

LIZABETH JANOWSKI E The Business of Confidence and Trust

AJEEB AMIN PARDESI N Creating Places People Value

ILLY PULITZER L Lilly Pulitzer Chooses Coral Sands for Summer 2026 Campaign

AMES PHILLIPS J Why Print Still Matters

ONSTANCE BREMENT C What Luxury at Sea Means Now

A HO K Golf Has a New Dress Code with Ka Ho

DAM BUSBY A The Luxury of Attention in a World of Notifications

PS SHANGHAI L Global Property Meets in Shanghai

ARTIN BETANT M Trust Is the Currency of Luxury Media

ANTONI S Santoni's One of One Puts Personalization at the Center of Luxury

102

86 INSIGHTS

102

SG POLICY GUIDE 2026 E Insights from Positive Luxury & Baker McKenzie

106

ORLD LUXURY DAY W From a Day to a Global Movement

112

HE NEW PRIVATE LUXURY T Why Luxury Living Is Entering a New Era

118

HE LUXURY PEOPLE T PODCAST 2026 Mid-Year Review

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A M E S S AG E F RO M T H E P R E S I D E N T

Luxury has always been associated with the exceptional. But what makes something exceptional is changing. Across the conversations in this issue, one idea appears repeatedly: luxury today must mean something. Attention alone is not enough. Price alone is not enough. Increasingly, value is found in relevance, trust, craftsmanship, experience, and the human relationships behind what we create. Our cover story with Rachel Walsh captures this particularly well. Her perspective on building brands people genuinely desire speaks to a wider question facing our industry: how do we create lasting value in a world where visibility is abundant, but genuine connection is harder to earn? That question becomes even more relevant as we approach World Luxury Day on October 8. This year, we are taking the global celebration further with the first World Luxury Day Manifesto, inviting professionals across our industry to consider one important question: What does luxury mean today?

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There will not be one answer, nor should there be. Luxury is experienced differently across cultures, industries, and generations. What unites us is an opportunity to consider what we want this industry to represent. Issue 6 reflects that conversation. Across real estate, hospitality, yachting, fashion, design, media, sustainability, and craftsmanship, our features look beyond what luxury sells to consider the value it creates. I hope these pages give you ideas worth considering, conversations worth continuing, and perhaps your own answer to the question we will be asking the world this October.

President World Luxury Chamber of Commerce

ISSUE 6 | September 2026

President

Alexander Chetchikov

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor & Project Manager

Bianca Huber Layout & Design

Nick Poznyak Media Manager

Jana Vos Contributors Cover Star Rachel Walsh

Bianca Huber, Jana Vos, Mariya Ruban, Alex Hesse, Olha Kipiani

MEDIA PARTNERS A WORLD LUXURY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION One World Trade Center, Suite 8500, New York City, NY 10007, USA

www.worldluxurychamber.com The use of the website and digital magazine is subject to the following terms. All rights reserved. No part of Luxury People Magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior written permission from the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this issue, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce. Unless otherwise stated, copyright of individual contributions remains with the respective contributors. Every effort has been made to trace copyright holders of images. We apologize for any unintentional omissions and will be pleased to make appropriate acknowledgments in subsequent publications. © World Luxury Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

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C OV E R S T O RY

WHY

MEANING MATTERS MORE THAN

ATTENTION with RACHEL WALSH

Rachel Walsh has built her career across luxury, fashion and sports lifestyle, and now leads Marketing & Communications for Moët Hennessy UK & Ireland. She speaks to Luxury People Magazine about earning attention, finding an authentic place in culture, and why the smallest brand details can leave the greatest impression.

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C OV E R S T O RY

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Rachel, you’ve worked across luxury, fashion, and sports lifestyle. What do you think makes someone feel a real connection with a brand rather than simply wanting to buy a product? RACHEL WALSH: For me, the strongest brands make you feel something. Of course, the product has to be exceptional, particularly in luxury, but the product on its own isn’t enough to build a lasting connection. The brands we remember tend to be connected to a feeling, a moment, a person, or a memory. They become part of our lives in some way. That’s why I’ve always been interested in building brand worlds rather than just campaigns. What does the brand stand for? How does it make people feel? Where does it show up? What are the moments people associate with it? LPM: Culture plays an increasingly important role in how brands connect with people. How can luxury brands participate in culture in a way that feels authentic?

Attention is relatively easy to buy.

MEANING IS MUCH HARDER TO CREATE.

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RW: For me, it starts with knowing what your brand genuinely has a right to be part of. Culture moves incredibly quickly, and brands don’t need to chase every conversation or every trend. Trying too hard to be relevant often has the opposite effect. The strongest brands understand their own point of view and then find the cultural moments, communities, and occasions where there is a natural connection. I’ve always believed brands need to think carefully about the occasions they can authentically own or show up in. That could be celebration, food, music, sport, art, or simply bringing people together. For me, the question is always: are we adding something to the moment? When the answer is yes, culture can be an incredibly powerful way to create emotional connection and long-term relevance.

For me, the question is always:

ARE WE ADDING SOMETHING TO THE MOMENT?

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C OV E R S T O RY

Often it’s the smallest, most thoughtful detail

THAT STAYS WITH YOU.

LPM: We’re surrounded by more brands, content, and choice than ever. What do you think luxury brands need to do to genuinely earn people’s attention today? RW: Attention is relatively easy to buy. Meaning is much harder to create. We can reach people in more places than ever, but being visible doesn’t automatically make a brand desirable. I’m much more interested in whether something resonates. Did someone feel something? Did they remember it? Did they talk about it? Did they want to be part of it? Sometimes one brilliant experience can have far more impact than trying to be everywhere all the time. LPM: There’s so much craft and expertise behind luxury products. How can brands bring people closer to those stories without simply telling them about it? RW: Crafting exceptional experiences will always be how luxury brands can bring their clients into their brand worlds. That can be brought to life in so many ways. For example, luxury brands can partner with world-class chefs and hospitality partners to create tasting journeys that allow people to experience the product in a much richer way, through flavour, storytelling and incredible service. For me, that’s when crafting creative experiences becomes really powerful. You’re not just explaining how a particular product is made; you’re allowing

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people to experience the passion and expertise behind it, in a way that is memorable. Luxury brands should bring people genuine joy; that’s when you create a much deeper connection with the brand. LPM: If you could change one thing about how luxury brands connect with their customers today, what would it be? RW: I think sometimes we focus too much on the big moments that we forget that luxury is really the sum of every single brand touchpoint. It’s how the product feels in your hand, the packaging, how it’s presented, how you’re welcomed into a space, the service you receive, the language a brand uses, and the small details you weren’t expecting. Every one of those moments is an opportunity to reinforce what the brand stands for, make someone feel something, and create an unexpected moment of magic. And it doesn’t have to be an extravagant gesture. Often it’s the smallest, most thoughtful detail that stays with you. Those details are what excite me every day.

Connect with Rachel Walsh on LinkedIn to follow her latest insights, industry perspectives, and professional updates.

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W L C C B OA R D M E M B E R P E R S P E C T I V E

BUILDING TRUST IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE with JASON MARGETTS

Recently appointed to the Board of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce,

Jason Margetts brings experience across luxury real estate advisory, development strategy, and commercial growth. In this conversation, he discusses branded residences, leadership, global investment trends, and why reputation remains the most valuable asset in luxury real estate. 16 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Luxury real estate today is evolving far beyond property transactions. How do you define the future of luxury development, and what separates truly visionary projects from those that simply follow market trends? JASON MARGETTS: The evolution of luxury real estate now encompasses more than traditional concerns such as location or product; it is increasingly focused on cultivating comprehensive environments that foster emotional engagement, lifestyle integration, and enduring relevance. Innovative developments recognise that luxury buyers are seeking identity, experience, wellness, community, and legacy, rather than merely additional living space. Leading global projects successfully integrate hospitality, culture, retail, wellness, technology, and sustainability into cohesive, holistic solutions. A significant trend is emerging towards branded residences and hospitality-driven housing concepts. Today’s consumers demonstrate substantial confidence in internationally renowned luxury brands due to their reputation for consistency, high service standards, and prestige. Branded residences offer an attractive proposition by combining real estate with tailored lifestyle experiences, operational expertise, and reliable investment returns. Projects centered solely on prevailing trends often emphasise aesthetics. In contrast, forwardthinking developments are designed with consideration for human behavior, longevity, and the creation of emotional value. These ventures anticipate future living preferences over the next decade or two, rather than focusing solely on current popularity. LPM: You mentioned that much of your work begins long before sales – from land strategy and advisory to project positioning. What are the most critical decisions made in the earliest stages of a luxury real estate project? JM: Early decisions are crucial because they set the foundations for the entire project. Before initiating design or sales, developers must fully understand market positioning, the ideal customer base, product-market fit, and a sustainable commercial approach. A common pitfall in luxury real estate is attempting to redefine these factors after the design phase has already commenced. Luxury developments demand insight into consumer psychology, aspirational lifestyles, and local cultural influences. Developers should address key questions from the outset: • What gap does the market present? • Which emotional needs are being met? • How can we achieve unique differentiation that isn’t easily copied?

LUXURY REAL ESTATE IS ULTIMATELY A REPUTATION BUSINESS.

Long-term success comes from consistency, trust, operational excellence, and delivering on promises repeatedly over time. Operational sustainability is just as vital. Leading luxury communities worldwide are conceived as enduring ecosystems, not merely short-term sales projects. This involves placemaking, integrating amenities, enhancing mobility, forming hospitality alliances, prioritising wellness, and offering branded residences. The most successful projects consistently align strategy, design, operations, and commercial priorities right from the beginning. Several years ago, I had the privilege of spending time with the Kobayashi Group in Hawaii, where I experienced their Park Lane Ala Moana development as well as their ultra-high-end, hospitality-led community on the Big Island, Kukio. Both projects set new benchmarks in Hawaii for low-density, hospitalitydriven, ultra-luxury residential living. To this day, I remain deeply impressed by the extraordinary measures they took to address owners’ needs and the remarkable quality of their finishes. For example, at Kukio, residents enjoy personalised concierge services and customdesigned interiors tailored to their preferences, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to individualised service and design excellence. It was during this time that I truly understood what luxury real estate means. It is no surprise that their projects continue to sell out rapidly. They have built a brand and reputation that is meticulously focused on quality of execution and exceptional aftercare services.

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LPM: In your experience advising developers, startups, and real estate companies, what are the biggest mistakes businesses make when trying to enter or scale within the luxury market? JM: One of the biggest misconceptions is believing luxury is simply about higher pricing or premium finishes. True luxury is built around trust, consistency, experience, and emotional resonance. Many businesses underestimate how sophisticated today’s luxury consumer has become. Buyers are globally informed, widely travelled, and highly discerning. They compare projects internationally, not just locally. Another common mistake is scaling too quickly without building operational depth or brand credibility. Luxury is extremely difficult to sustain without exceptional execution. A single poor customer experience can damage a reputation significantly. I also see many businesses focusing heavily on acquisition but not enough on retention, community creation, and posthandover experience. In today’s market, longterm brand equity is often built after the sale rather than during it. Finally, some developers pursue trends without establishing authentic differentiation. The most respected luxury brands globally have a very clear identity and philosophy. Authenticity matters enormously in this sector. LPM: Luxury consumers today are more globally informed, experience-driven, and value-conscious than ever before. How is this changing the way developers and brands must think about positioning and long-term value creation? JM: Luxury consumers today expect far more than a beautiful residence. They expect service, convenience, wellness, exclusivity, privacy, and meaningful experiences integrated into daily life.

Great companies sell products;

GREAT BRANDS INSPIRE BELIEF.

infrastructure, and long-term resilience. Ultimately, luxury today is becoming more personal, more curated, and more experience-led. Developers who genuinely understand human experience will outperform those focused only on physical product. LPM: From your perspective, where do you see the greatest opportunities in the future of luxury real estate – whether geographically, conceptually, or through new business models and collaborations? JM: I believe the intersection of luxury real estate, hospitality, wellness, and branded living presents the greatest opportunities globally right now. Branded residences are growing rapidly, combining trusted brands with premium properties and service-led living, which buyers appreciate for quality and lifestyle alignment. Middle Eastern markets, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stand out due to national transformation programs, infrastructure investment, and rising global investor interest.

This is fundamentally changing how developers think about value creation. Long-term value is no longer defined purely by capital appreciation. It is increasingly tied to lifestyle quality, operational excellence, community management, and experiential offerings.

Mixed-use communities, wellness developments, personalised living, and hospitality-driven concepts are expected to expand further. Strategic partnerships between developers, luxury brands, operators, designers, technology firms, and cultural institutions are increasingly important, making luxury development more multidisciplinary.

We are seeing strong demand globally for developments that incorporate wellness concepts, concierge-style services, hospitality partnerships, private members’ environments, and branded residential experiences.

Read the full interview: worldluxurychamber.com/jason-margetts.

Sustainability is also evolving from a marketing feature into a core expectation. High-net-worth buyers increasingly want developments that demonstrate environmental responsibility, smart

To learn more about Jason’s work in luxury real estate advisory, development strategy, and commercial growth, connect with him on LinkedIn and follow his latest industry insights.

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EMOTION, MEMORY AND MODERN PERFUMERY with ANU RUOHOSTO

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LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: You have a strong scientific background in cosmetic chemistry and natural medicine. How does that knowledge guide your decisions when creating a new fragrance?

With more than 25 years in the beauty industry and a doctorate in Natural Medicine, Anu Ruohosto

brings scientific precision and creative intuition to fragrance creation.

In this interview, the founder of Scentsophy discusses craftsmanship, clean formulations, and

why perfume should feel personal rather than universal.

ANU RUOHOSTO: My scientific understanding of cosmetic chemistry and natural medicine is the foundation of everything I do. It allows me to understand how ingredients behave — how they interact with the skin, and how they evolve over time. When I create a fragrance, I’m not only thinking about its first impression; I’m considering its entire journey — how it unfolds, transforms, and reveals itself with each passing hour. My training enables me to select ingredients that are not only beautiful, but also safe and perfectly balanced. And yet, science doesn’t limit my imagination — it supports it. I rely on both knowledge and instinct, and it’s this balance that shapes every formula I create. LPM: Scentsophy avoids trends and mass production. What does exclusivity mean to you in today’s luxury fragrance market? AR: For me, exclusivity isn’t about how much something costs or how hard it is to find; it’s about why it was created. It’s about making something that feels special and means something to the person who uses it, not something designed to appeal to everybody. I don’t go with the flow of trends as they are fleeting, and a perfume ought to outlast them. When a small quantity is made, with real consideration and attention to detail, it has a different worth. It’s closer to the person wearing it. And that is what I think of as real luxury: something carefully considered, not thrown together quickly or made in huge numbers.

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I don’t design for a specific type of person. I COMPOSE FOR AN EMOTION.

LPM: Your formulations focus on clean and low-allergen ingredients. How do you maintain richness and longevity without relying on conventional synthetics? AR: The secret to creating a rich, long-lasting scent — without relying on synthetic ingredients — lies in understanding the hidden depth of natural materials. Many people assume that “natural” fragrances are faint or short-lived, but that isn’t necessarily true. Woods, resins, and plant extracts can linger beautifully, offering remarkable depth and nuance. My approach is to layer these elements, carefully combining ingredients to build a strong, balanced foundation. It takes more time and precision, but the result is a fragrance that feels complete and evolves naturally on the skin. Ultimately, it’s about working with the ingredients — rather than forcing them to be something they’re not. LPM: You often describe fragrance as

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something deeply personal. How do you approach creating scents that still feel individual to each person who wears them? AR: I see perfume as something deeply personal, inseparable from the individual who wears it. So when I create a scent, I don’t design for a specific type of person — I compose for an emotion. Rather than crafting a fragrance for “someone,” I build a mood, a sensation. When it meets the skin, it transforms — shaped by body chemistry, by memory, by the wearer’s own story. That’s what makes it special, every single time.

REAL LUXURY IS SOMETHING CAREFULLY CONSIDERED, not thrown together quickly or made in huge numbers.

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Science doesn’t limit my imagination. IT SUPPORTS IT. I like to leave space within the composition — room for the fragrance to respond, to evolve. In that way, the scent and the person wearing it become partners in its expression. LPM: What changes do you expect to see in the fragrance industry over the next decade, particularly in how brands balance performance, transparency, and customer expectations? AR: Over the next decade, I believe people will continue to ask more questions — and that’s a good thing. Transparency won’t be optional; it will be essential. People want to understand what’s in their perfume and why those ingredients have been chosen. At the same time, I think we’ll see a shift toward valuing quality over abundance. Rather than endless choice, there will be a greater appreciation for fragrances that are thoughtfully made and truly perform. Brands will need to strike a careful balance: creating perfumes that last, that deliver on their promise, while also acting responsibly—respecting both personal well-being and the planet. I’m confident the future of fragrance will be more honest, more intentional, and more deeply connected to the way each of us experiences scent.

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Discover the world of Scentsophy and explore Anu Ruohosto’s collection of artisanal fragrances at maisondessophys.com.

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WLCC MEMBER PERSPECTIVE

NATURE, AUTHENTICITY, AND THE NEW MEASURE OF LUXURY with AGUILAR & ESTEVE ARQUITECTS Luxury architecture is moving beyond visual spectacle and material excess. According to architect Lucila Aguilar, the industry’s next chapter will be defined by authenticity, environmental responsibility, and deeper connections to place.

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Lucila Aguilar

Ecological responsibility is not opposed to beauty or comfort. IN FACT, WE BELIEVE IT ENHANCES BOTH. Across the luxury sector, conversations around sustainability have matured from marketing language into business expectations. In architecture and hospitality, this shift is changing not only how projects are built but also how clients define value. For architect Lucila Aguilar, founder of Aguilar & Esteve Arquitects, environmental responsibility is becoming inseparable from luxury itself. She challenges the long-standing perception that sustainability requires compromise, arguing that natural materials can deliver exceptional quality, comfort, and design. “Ecological responsibility is not opposed to beauty or comfort,” she says. “In fact, we believe it enhances both.” The statement reflects a broader movement within luxury real estate and hospitality. Increasingly, value is being found in thoughtful material selection, local craftsmanship, and buildings that respond to their surroundings rather than dominate them. Materials such as bamboo, earth, wood, and stone are gaining renewed attention, not as alternatives to luxury, but as expressions of it.

Another important theme emerging from Aguilar’s perspective is the relationship between innovation and tradition. While technological advancement continues to transform architecture, she believes authenticity remains essential. “We see technology and artisanal expertise as parts of the same conversation,” she explains. Rather than viewing digital fabrication and craftsmanship as opposing forces, luxury projects are finding success by combining both. This approach allows architects and designers to introduce new efficiencies and creative possibilities while preserving cultural identity and traditional knowledge. Aguilar also points to a growing desire for emotional connection within luxury environments. As consumers become more selective about where they spend their time and money, memorable experiences are increasingly valued over visual statements alone. “A memorable luxury space is one that captures and elevates the essence of a place,” she says.

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This focus on place-making is particularly relevant in hospitality, where guests increasingly seek immersion in local culture, landscapes, and communities. Authenticity has become a competitive advantage, especially among highnet-worth travelers looking for experiences that feel distinctive rather than standardized. Looking ahead, Aguilar expects the definition of luxury to continue shifting. She believes future clients will place greater importance on wellness, culture, gastronomy, and meaningful experiences while demanding stronger environmental accountability from developers and brands.

We see TECHNOLOGY AND ARTISANAL EXPERTISE as parts of the same conversation.

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“People are beginning to prioritize authentic experiences, culture, gastronomy, wellness, and connection with nature over material excess and luxury goods alone.” For luxury architecture, the implication is clear: success will depend less on what a project displays and more on what it allows people to feel, experience, and connect with.

To learn more about Lucila Aguilar’s approach to architecture, sustainability, and design, visit www.lucilaaguilar.com and explore a portfolio of projects that connect craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep respect for place.

MEBAA Show Luxury Lifestyle Boulevard A curated marketplace connecting luxury brands and private aviation for the world’s most exclusive clientele

Learn more

8-10 December 2026 DWC, Dubai Airshow Site

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ACHILLEAS KOUKKOS

ON PERSONALIZED LUXURY TRAVEL IN GREECE For Achilleas Koukkos, Co-Founder of VILLABEAT, luxury hospitality begins with understanding the person behind the reservation. He discusses trust, local knowledge, AI, international expansion and why personal service remains central to the VILLABEAT experience.

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LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: VILLABEAT has grown from a small team into a company serving guests across Greece. Which principles have remained constant throughout that journey? ACHILLEAS KOUKKOS: Everything around us has changed since we started VILLABEAT, but the reason why we exist has not. From the beginning, we believed that hospitality is about people before it is about properties. A beautiful villa may first capture the eye, but what stays with you comes from the heart. This has always been fundamental to the way we think. We look for beauty, of course, but beauty alone is never enough. A villa needs a soul, a sense of place, and ultimately a heartbeat. In fact, this idea is reflected in our name: Villa and Beat.

something much simpler: pay attention. Before making a decision, we often ask ourselves: “If I were the guest, what would I hope someone had already thought of for me?” That question changes everything. Two families can stay in exactly the same villa and should have two completely different experiences. One may want privacy and almost no interaction; another may want us to design every day of their journey. Neither is right or wrong. Our responsibility is to understand the difference.

We have also remained committed to something very simple: treating every guest as we would want to be treated ourselves. As we grew, systems became more sophisticated, our portfolio expanded, and our team became larger, but I never wanted growth to make us less human. For me, success is not becoming bigger at the expense of who you are. It is becoming better while remaining true to why you started. LPM: Personalization is often discussed in luxury hospitality. How do you ensure it remains meaningful rather than simply becoming a standard service offering? AK: Personalization has become one of the most overused words in luxury. For us, it means

For me, true personalization is not about doing more. IT IS ABOUT UNDERSTANDING BETTER.

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W The best service is often invisible. It is anticipating something before it becomes a request, remembering a small preference mentioned weeks earlier, or solving a problem without allowing it to become part of the guest’s holiday. For me, true personalization is not about doing more. It is about understanding better. LPM: Greece offers a remarkable variety of destinations. How does local expertise influence the experiences you create? AK: Greece cannot be experienced from a desk. Mykonos is different from Paros, Paros from Crete, Crete from Sifnos. Even within the same island, two areas can offer completely different experiences. This is why local knowledge has always been fundamental to VILLABEAT. Our people on the ground are not simply there to provide services. They are our eyes and ears in each destination. They know which beach is beautiful at a particular time of day, which restaurant genuinely deserves a recommendation, where the wind may be stronger, where a family will feel comfortable, and where someone looking for complete privacy should stay. But local expertise is also about honesty. Sometimes the best recommendation is not the most famous or the most expensive one. Luxury hospitality requires the confidence to recommend what is right for that particular guest. We want our guests not simply to visit Greece, but to feel that, for a few days, they have been allowed to experience it through the eyes of someone who truly knows it.

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LPM: Trust is central to your philosophy. How do you cultivate long-term relationships with both villa owners and guests? AK: I have always believed that trust is the greatest luxury. Our guests entrust us not only with significant amounts of money, but with something much more valuable: their time. Often it is the one week of the year when an entire family is together. You cannot give that week back to them if something goes wrong. Owners place a different kind of trust in us. They give us responsibility for homes that may represent years of work, investment, and personal emotion. We have to respect that equally. Trust cannot be created through marketing. It is built slowly, through consistency, transparency and being present when something does not go according to plan. In hospitality, perfection is an aspiration, but reality occasionally surprises you. I believe people judge you most by what you do in those moments. We have guests and partners who have stayed with us for years, and I value those relationships enormously. A reservation is a transaction. A relationship is something you earn. LPM: As guest expectations continue to evolve, what qualities do you believe define exceptional luxury hospitality today? AK: Luxury today is not excess. It is relevance. It is having the right thing happen at the right moment — sometimes before you have even asked for it. It is privacy when you need privacy, attention when you need attention, and the freedom to experience a destination in your own

way. Of course, beautiful properties, exceptional design and high-quality services matter. We are in the luxury industry, and those standards are expected. But I don’t believe they are what guests ultimately remember. They remember the dinner with their family overlooking the Aegean. They remember discovering a tiny beach they would never have found themselves. They remember someone from our team answering the phone when they genuinely needed help. People may forget details, but they rarely forget how you made them feel. That, for me, is where hospitality becomes luxury. LPM: Technology continues to influence the travel industry. How do you balance digital innovation with the human element of hospitality? AK: I am very positive about technology and particularly about what AI can bring to our industry. We should use technology wherever it can make the guest journey faster, simpler and more transparent. But there is a line I don’t want us to cross. Technology should help us understand and serve people better; it should never become an excuse to stop knowing them.

A reservation is a transaction. A RELATIONSHIP IS SOMETHING YOU EARN.

A platform can show you hundreds of villas. Technology can compare bedrooms, locations, prices, and amenities in seconds. But it cannot fully understand why one particular villa will feel right for one particular family. At VILLABEAT, we want technology to handle what technology does best, so that our people have more time to do what humans do best: listen, understand, care and build relationships. And there is one thing technology will never replace at VILLABEAT: direct human contact with our guests. We will never stop answering them ourselves, whether it is after midnight or very early in the morning. For us, hospitality has no clock. If a guest needs us, we are there. That personal connection is the heartbeat of VILLABEAT. We will embrace AI and every innovation that genuinely improves the guest experience, but never at the cost of that relationship. No technology, and no AI, will replace the human heart of what we do.

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Technology should help us understand and serve people better; IT SHOULD NEVER BECOME AN EXCUSE TO STOP KNOWING THEM. LPM: Looking ahead, how do you see VILLABEAT continuing to develop while remaining true to its identity? AK: I want VILLABEAT to grow, but I have never wanted growth simply for the sake of becoming larger. We are now looking at how the model we have built in Greece can be carefully expanded beyond Greece, and there will be announcements soon. But this expansion can only happen in our own way.

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We will not enter a destination simply by partnering with local property managers and placing villas under the VILLABEAT name. Wherever we go, we will have our own on-site teams. Every villa will be personally inspected, carefully selected, and fully evaluated by us against the same standards that define VILLABEAT in Greece. For us, there is no other credible way to expand internationally. That is actually one of the greatest challenges of growth: how do you scale something that is fundamentally personal? My answer is culture, presence, and control over the experience. You can replicate technology and processes relatively easily. What is much harder to replicate is a philosophy. The day VILLABEAT becomes simply a platform for renting beautiful houses is the day we have lost our identity. That will never be our path. The villa may capture the eye. The experience must capture the heart. That is the VILLABEAT we intend to take beyond Greece — without ever losing the character, standards, and heartbeat that made us who we are.

Discover VILLABEAT’s collection of luxury villas and personalized experiences across Greece at www.villabeat.com.

Internationally acclaimed named Internationally acclaimed andand named the number one new restaurant the number one new restaurant Internationally acclaimed and named in in America by e Times, America by e NewNew York Times, o yao ya the number one new restaurant inYork is a Boston omakase restaurant where a Boston omakase restaurant Americais by e New York Times, o ya where Japanese discipline becomes a platform Japanese discipline becomes a platform is a Boston omakase restaurant where Internationally acclaimed and named for global invention. e twenty-course global invention. twenty-course Japanesefordiscipline becomese a platform the number one new restaurant ina setlist, progression is composed like progression composed like a setlist, for global invention.ise twenty-course America by e New York Times, o ya and within it each bite is built in deliberate and within it eachlike biteaissetlist, built in deliberate progression is composed is a Boston omakase restaurant where layers: abite torched seafood, a fermented layers: a torched a fermented and within it each isseafood, built in deliberate Japanese discipline becomes a platform sauce, a note of citrus, an herb, a nishing a note of citrus, an herb, a nishing layers: asauce, torched seafood, a fermented global invention. eaacid, twenty-course oil, sweet, salt, smoke, oil, with sweet, salt, acid, smoke, andand heatheat sauce, afor note ofwith citrus, an herb, nishing progression is composed like a setlist, balanced with intention. Nothing is ller. with intention. oil, withbalanced sweet, salt, acid, smoke,Nothing and heatis ller. and within it each bite is built in deliberate Led by James Beard Award winning Led by intention. James Beard Awardiswinning balanced with Nothing ller. ChefChef layers: a torched aits fermented Cushman, ya enters its third decade TimTim Cushman, oseafood, yaoenters third decade Led by James Beard Award winning Chef sauce, a note of citrus, an herb, a nishing as curious and creatively alive as ever. as curious and creatively alivedecade as ever. Tim Cushman, o ya enters its third oil, with sweet, salt, acid, smoke, as curious and creatively alive as ever. and heat balanced with intention. Nothing is ller. Led by James Beard Award winning Chef Tim Cushman, o ya enters its third decade as curious and creatively alive as ever.

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BEYOND STATUS, TOWARD SIGNIFICANCE with LANCIA SOANS

Luxury is often associated with exclusivity and craftsmanship, but for Lancia Soans, its true value lies in human connection. In this conversation, the founder of Lancia Designs shares her perspective on art, gifting, craftsmanship, and why meaningful relationships remain at the heart of luxury. 36 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

LUXURY IS MOVING BEYOND NUMBERS and toward the shared values we recognize in ourselves and others.

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Lancia, you have worked across luxury real estate, private aviation, fashion, art, and design. What have these industries taught you about the difference between luxury that feels personal and luxury that simply looks expensive? LANCIA SOANS: Luxury is always rooted in the value of relationships with people and things. There is a personal resonance of beauty, excellence, and a deep desire to create within the thread that connects each of these luxury lifestyle industries. Although the channels in each of these industries may vary, the bond is always held together within the crucible of relationships. If we look at the genesis of creation, everything has been created and endowed by our Creator within the cosmos of beauty and relationships. We begin to understand the myriad aesthetics, tastes, styles,

and values of the other. Luxury is now moving beyond the value of numbers in accounting books to what value do I see in myself that is an extension of shared values that I see in another, and how can this be translated into a space that reflects these personal values, whether it is in a home, jet cabin interior, art, or gifts. LPM: Your work often combines art with meaningful gifting for executives and highnet-worth clients. What makes a luxury gift memorable in a world where many people already have access to everything? LS: I believe the seeds we sow in a relationship and cultivate over time through observation and interaction enable us to understand the lifestyle of another, moving us to create or gift something that will be treasured in the heart.

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As an example, some years ago, I read a book entitled “Giftology” by John Ruhlin. There was a quote in his book that read “the seeds that fall on fertile ground will more than outweigh the seeds that don’t.” This resonated with me, and I created a small piece of art around the quote that centered on gifting and relationships, something close to both of our hearts. I sent the art as a gift to John, and he was deeply moved that I would choose to create something so special that reflected his values, and through this small gesture, he started to envision ways we could collaborate using our shared passion for gifting and relationships. LPM: You grew up around craftsmanship and handmade design through your mother’s work. How do those early influences still appear in the way you approach modern art and luxury design today? LS: Growing up around heritage brands, at a time when sewing and embroidery was deeply carved into my Mother’s gifted hands, helped to nurture me to appreciate the value of beauty, elegance, and style at a young age. I observed the meticulous stitching done with excellence by my mother and aunt, modeled in every piece of embroidered table cloth, cocktail napkin, pillow cover, or tea cozy. This attention to detail was ingrained in me at a tender age and has carried me through my own growth as an artist and designer. I do believe that each of us has been endowed with gifts by our Creator, and when nourished in the right environment, develops its own radiance. I have been gifted with an innate flair for style, enhancing the simplest everyday gift with elegance, turning the seemingly ordinary to extraordinary.

When everything is visible, nothing is valued. EXCLUSIVITY WILL BELONG TO THE DISCERNING EYE.

LPM: Many luxury brands are becoming more focused on visibility and fast digital attention. Do you think exclusivity still matters in the same way it once did, or has the definition of luxury changed for today’s clients?

LPM: Looking to the future, what do you think the luxury industry will value more over the next five years: heritage, technology, personal relationships, craftsmanship, or something entirely different?

LS: As the landscape of luxury has changed with the explosion of digital visibility, some of the heritage brands that were created with a refined sense of aesthetics are starting to lose their essence as they are relegated to a demographic that is still struggling with its identity.

LS: The core of Creation is Relationships, and nothing can survive outside this framework for an extended period of time. I do believe that the value of personal relationships will be the foundation of the luxury tree that will hold the branches of heritage and craftsmanship, while technology will continue to be used as a tool to move within these branches.

When everything is visible, nothing is valued. There is a saturation of digital attention, and this is giving rise to a longing to bring in the elegance of the vintage years into our modern lifestyle. We are seeing a shift in honoring ourselves and caring for how we dress each day and how we curate everything around us with simplicity in its pure form. Exclusivity will now be subtle and will only be visible to the discerning eye. Structure and value will be the backbone of exclusivity.

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Connect with Lancia Soans on LinkedIn to explore her insights on luxury, art, gifting, and meaningful client experiences. Learn more about Lancia Designs and discover how thoughtful design can create lasting impact.

ultra summit

September 16-19, 2026 AVA Resort, Cancun

Where Luxury Travel Leaders Meet Luxury Travel Advisor’s ULTRA Summit is an invitation-only event bringing together prequalified luxury travel agency owners, managers and independent contractors with the world’s leading luxury travel brands. Through curated one-to-one meetings, networking and shared experiences, ULTRA creates an environment where meaningful relationships develop naturally and long-term business partnerships begin. –

One-to-one meetings with pre-qualified advisors

–

Intimate hosted buyer format

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Curated networking, receptions and shared experiences

–

Meals, activities and a premium hostedbuyer environment

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A more intentional alternative to traditional trade shows

ltaultrasummit.com

MEMBER INSIGHTS

AUTHENTICITY WASN’T LOST. IT STOPPED BEING SEEN.

Long before the fashion industry coined the term “it bag,” the Wayuu mochila already was one; carried for generations, recognized on sight, woven by hand into something between a garment and a signature. The difference is that its value was never manufactured by a marketing campaign. In Los Cabritos, La Guajira, weaving a medium-sized mochila still takes fourteen days and the hands of two women. No machine can shorten that time without losing what the piece means. For decades, luxury has been told as a story of scarcity wrapped in heritage: a European name, a century-old house, a workshop whose location matters almost as much as its process. It’s a powerful story, and it still works. But today’s consumer has started asking a different question: not how much something costs, but where it truly comes from, and that question opens an opportunity few brands have learned to seize yet.

LUXURY WAS NEVER CENTRALIZED. We simply learned to see it that way.

Behind that piece, and behind the brands born from Wayuu communities like this one, among them Tierra Coulit, Yosuu, Sheira, and Junna, supported by Fundación Hilo Sagrado for the past eleven years, lies more than a brochure detail. It’s a real economy, sustained across generations, that narrows the income gap between men and women and funds housing, health, and education within the community. This is what real traceability reveals when followed all the way through: luxury was never centralized; we simply read it that way. Decentralization isn’t a new market trend; it’s the correction of an incomplete reading. And in that correction, Latin America doesn’t occupy the place of raw-material supplier or exotic inspiration; it occupies the place of unrecognized origin, waiting to be named with the same seriousness as any European maison. Naming it is not a symbolic gesture. It’s an open invitation to any brand that wants to sustain its luxury narrative in front of a consumer who already knows to ask where what they buy comes from, and who increasingly finds more reasons to look south. The luxury that best withstands this question won’t be the one with the longest heritage. It will be the one able to name, with precision, every hand that took part in its origin. aureum.com.co The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Luxury People Magazine or the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce (WLCC).

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lina Bustillo is the founder of Aureum Coaching, a luxury brand strategy consultancy in Latin America, a board member of Fundación Hilo Sagrado, Positive Luxury’s representative for the region, and a luxury management lecturer at Universidad ESAN in Peru.

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OPINION

WATER IS LIFE, AND IT IS EVEN BETTER AT PALACE MERANO By Malek Semar, WLCC Board Member and Founder of No Water No Us *

In a world where water is becoming a constrained resource, Palace Merano serves as a model of frugality, adaptability, and restoration for both nature and humanity, thanks to a holistic view of resources. Opened in 1906 and unmatched to this day, this is a place where nature is key, and personalization is the rule. I am talking to you about a brand that is always pioneering and never follows trends in health. Here lies the secret to true longevity: renewing yourself while maintaining your core essence. Like the murmur of the Alpine torrent Passirio, which has flowed alongside the palace for more than a century, the water changes constantly, but the river remains. Nestled in the Italian Alps, Palace Merano benefits from a unique microclimate and water, both of which offer many benefits. Health is more of a journey than a goal, and each trip to Merano signifies advancement toward sustained wellbeing. Sustainability is not enough. In luxury, attention to detail counts, and the exclusivity and worth of those details enhance the value of the experience. Luxury hospitality can no longer depend solely on protecting nature and offering unique experiences; it must be regenerative, benefiting the environment through revitalization and improving both guests’ physical and mental wellbeing. The answers are within the water. Palace Merano has known this for a long time, with numerous international awards confirming it. Water is everywhere: outdoors, indoors, in catering, in care, in the maintenance of green spaces, and in swimming pools. Water is crucial for nutrition and prevention. Every single drop is important, and

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none comes from afar. Across every level, Revital Detox Waters, both flavored and vitaminized, are provided to promote hydration and facilitate internal cleansing. Water stands apart from the other elements. If it sustains human life, it also makes our business models viable. In Merano, your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is taken care of. Every guest enjoys a customized experience. I am talking to you about a place outside time and space due to its uniqueness, and inside the body and mind due to its complementarity, a place with a positive emotional impact. To tell the story of Palace Merano differently, I followed the path of a drop of water, a journey in three dimensions toward longevity. From top to bottom, health begins in the mind and extends to the body through the middle, with the stomach, since staying well means eating well. And, of course, moving well. At the top, there is water from the sky, which you see when it rains. The miracle of rain allows us to endure over time. The future stands as the pinnacle, and it is imperative to anticipate it with a preventive approach.

* This article reflects the author’s personal experience and perspective following his visit to Palace Merano.

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OPINION Miracles require the skills of a rainmaker. In Merano, Dr. Massimiliano Mayrhofer is the rainmaker, known for his Revital® method. This well-being philosophy, now two decades old, is anchored in a holistic health treatment approach focused on rebalancing. In addition to improving your health, it also aims to establish a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. At Palace Merano, a 1,500 m² medical center houses a laboratory for medical analyses, a scanner, an infirmary, and areas for health check-ups. Here, we cover preventive and functional medicine, along with areas such as nutrition, naturopathy, osteopathy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, and ozone therapy. This floor belongs to the miracle of Revital®, a term that conveys revitalization or rebirth. Like the refreshing rain that initiates a new beginning, Palace Merano acts as a call to inner, outer, and spiritual wellness.

At the lower depth, our future energy storage lies beneath the ground. This is the groundwater; these are our reserves. Doing consistent shadow work could potentially decrease the necessity of going to the higher floors. Here, time is invisible, yet results become visible over time and through the suffering endured by athletes. Water needs decades to cleanse itself; adopt a similar longterm, consistent, and enduring perspective for sports and wellness therapies.

Zinedine Zidane serves as an ambassador for Palace Merano

The top is often associated with the mind. To stay true to the spirit of the game, who fits this role better than the legendary Zinedine Zidane, the football champion who adopted the Revital® method and serves as an ambassador for Palace Merano? Loyal for 30 years, Zidane says, “If I had to sum up Palace Merano in three words, I would say: the team, because it’s the most important; wellbeing, and then nature, because the environment is fantastic.” The middle is made up of visible and tangible surface water. That is us in the present. Freshwater offers us nutrition and hydration. Here, we dine healthily with local ingredients and drink healthily, using only water from Merano.

On this floor, heightened senses are needed, merging sight and taste to better disconnect from both the past and the future. Antioxidants are key in a dietary approach to sustained health. To address these challenges, three exclusive nutritional programs, using seasonal ingredients, are crafted to maximize bodily regeneration and maintain its equilibrium.

Maximilian Newiger, General Manager, explained: “Merano is unique and impossible to replicate because of the microclimate and our human touch, the manpower, and the experience. From a technical perspective, we reuse the water; it is directed into a tank specifically designed for cleaning the water before it is reused in the pool. And, instead of plastic bottles, we supplied aluminum bottles to each guest.”

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Keeping employees is also an indicator of longevity. For over 25 years, Chef Günther Pirhofer has been a mainstay of dietary cuisine.

↑ Palace Merano – Restaurant Historique In Palace Merano’s basement, you will find wellness and sports facilities. The strategy relies on focused hydrotherapy, therapeutic hydration, and the circulation of bodily fluids. These treatments include hydro-aromatherapy, hydro-fangotherapy, hydro-jet, cryotherapy, and massages. In addition, there are indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, a hammam, a Kneipp course, and more. Dry Floating is a sensory weightlessness system that mimics the soothing effects of water immersion without requiring direct contact, helping to reduce water retention and stress.

The fitness area, offering an incredible view of the park, is equipped with the latest Technogym® technologies, allowing for both indoor and outdoor exercise supervised by personal trainers. It covers cognitive, physical, and postural performance. As a long-time customer and now an Ambassador for Palace Merano, global alpine skiing icon Deborah Compagnoni always visits the resort post-season to gather the physical and mental energy needed for her next challenge.

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OPINION MALEK SEMAR: This experience was lasting and enjoyable. Thank you. To best appreciate the Palace’s advantages, one must come here. So, I would really value hearing your personal viewpoint regarding the water in Merano. To finish, please conclude with the Water Anecdote, a personal experience related to water. STEFANO PLOTEGHER, CEO: Earth, air, water, and above all, people. Let’s call it fire, the warmth of humanity. The essential components of our method are here. Part of the secret of Palace Merano is the water, and you cannot export its climate. The benefits of the air and water have attracted famous people since the 18th century. After a few weeks of drinking the local water, I truly noticed its beneficial effects on my body. All our programs use Merano water, and even our mud is made from it. I have worked around the world, but what I found here was extraordinary. I mean, it is something that I would never have expected. Good water leads to a better life. My Water Anecdote: Florence faced a hot summer in 1999, leading to public water supply restrictions. Since then, saving water has been on people’s minds. It was like a message. We fill a plastic bowl with cold water drawn from the shower while we wait for the hot water to start. Previously, users were advised to allow the first liter of tap water to run before consumption. Since then, it has been retained for plants or cleaning, even though this is no longer required today and even the first drop is drinkable. My son was born in 2004 and grew up with this practice, and we continue, out of habit, not to throw away water. DR. MASSIMILIANO MAYRHOFER, SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR: I’m also a hydrologist, and I can assure you that everything in Palace Merano is connected to water. Beyond the treatments and food, Merano’s water is very rich, for example, in radon, which transmits calmness. This place was also frequented by Kafka and Princess Sisi for that purpose. I like to say that the river relies on us all, and I believe that brings positive energy to both the land and the rooms of the Palace. I would like to add one word about Technogym®: we frequently discuss the importance of sports with its President, Nario Alessandri. This is due to our pioneering role in this field, integrating physical exercise with dietary habits. Sports are a lifestyle.

Dr. Massimiliano Mayrhofer and Malek Semar For my Water Anecdote, I will tell you about the “lemon waters.” Merano is a village where everyone knows each other. If a guest is seen eating or even just drinking coffee in town, they call me to tell me that “a lemon water” has deviated from the diet. I enjoy this story because our guests drink substantial amounts of lemon water at the Palace.

To conclude, water is life, and indeed, it is of the highest quality at Merano. Palace Merano’s commitment to the significance of water is internationally notable. Indeed, the institution actively promotes this vision of water as an essential public health resource, for example, during the No Water No Us 2026 Summit, held in Geneva. On this occasion, the Palace highlighted the crucial role of water in global health, an issue that is also closely related to network and resource management concerns. Water quality significantly impacts health. Merano stands out as a place with particularly beneficial water. Explore Palace Merano’s approach to water, well-being, and longevity at www.palace.it, and learn more about the No Water No Us initiative at www.nowaternous.com.

It is something that I would never have expected. GOOD WATER LEADS TO A BETTER LIFE. 46 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

At ALTA Real Estate Development, we are dedicated to shaping exceptional lifestyles and building a legacy defined by innovation, quality, and lasting impact.

altadevelopment.ae

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WHY BOUTIQUE SERVICE STILL WINS LUXURY CLIENTS with KIRK CHAMBERLAIN

For Kirk Chamberlain, luxury real estate is built on informed

decisions, local expertise, and understanding what motivates buyers beyond the property itself. The founder of Chamberlain Property Group discusses pricing, client relationships, and why the Okanagan continues to attract Canada’s luxury market.

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Kirk, you have over three decades of experience in sales and marketing, along with deep local knowledge of the Okanagan Valley. How has this combination influenced your approach to pricing and positioning luxury properties today? KIRK CHAMBERLAIN: Over the past three decades, I’ve learned that luxury real estate is never just about the home itself — it’s about understanding the lifestyle, the market timing, and the emotional connection buyers are searching for. My background in sales and marketing taught me early on that strategic positioning is everything. In the luxury market especially, pricing is not simply based on square footage or comparable sales; it’s about identifying what makes a property

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truly unique and understanding how that value resonates with qualified buyers. Having deep roots in the Okanagan Valley has also been a major advantage. I’ve watched our communities evolve from primarily recreational destinations into highly sought-after lifestyle and investment markets. That local knowledge allows me to speak confidently about not only the property, but the surrounding lifestyle — whether that’s waterfront living in Osoyoos, vineyard estates in Summerland, or luxury lakefront homes throughout the Valley. Today, my approach combines data-driven pricing strategies with high-level marketing tailored specifically to each property. Luxury buyers expect

more than exposure; they expect a story, a lifestyle, and a seamless experience. My goal is always to position a home in a way that maximizes both visibility and perceived value while ensuring the pricing strategy creates strong market interest and ultimately delivers the best possible result for my clients. LPM: Chamberlain Property Group was recognized as the Best Luxury Boutique Real Estate Agency in Canada by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. What do you believe sets your agency apart to earn this distinction, and how will it impact your brand and client relationships? KC: Being recognized as the Best Luxury Boutique Real Estate Agency in Canada by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards is an incredible honour and a reflection of the commitment our entire team brings to every client relationship. I believe what truly sets Chamberlain Property Group apart is our combination of personalized service, local expertise, and a modern, results-driven marketing approach. As a boutique agency, we intentionally focus on quality over volume. Our clients are never treated like transactions — every property receives a customized strategy tailored to its unique features, target audience, and market position. We pride ourselves on being highly accessible, detail-oriented, and deeply invested in helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome. Our strong understanding of the Okanagan luxury market also plays a major role. We know

the communities, the lifestyle, and the nuances that influence buyer behaviour across the region. Combined with professional branding, high-end digital marketing, and strategic exposure, we’re able to position luxury properties in a way that stands out both locally and internationally. This recognition further strengthens our brand credibility and reinforces the trust our clients place in us. For our clients, it provides added confidence that they are working with a team recognized at an international level for excellence in luxury real estate. For our brand, it opens the door to broader exposure, stronger industry relationships, and continued growth while staying true to the personalized boutique experience that defines who we are. LPM: The luxury real estate client often expects a highly personalized experience. How do you ensure that the level of service is consistent across your team while maintaining strong performance and results? KC: In the luxury market, clients expect a level of service that is proactive, personalized, and seamless from start to finish. Maintaining that standard consistently across our team starts with culture and communication. At Chamberlain Property Group, we’ve built our business around relationships, professionalism, and accountability, ensuring every client receives the same high level of care and attention regardless of which team member they are working with. We have clear systems and processes in place for client communication, marketing execution, and transaction management, which helps create a consistent experience while still allowing for

Luxury buyers expect more than exposure. THEY EXPECT A STORY, A LIFESTYLE, AND A SEAMLESS EXPERIENCE.

Kirk Chamberlain, founder of Chamberlain Property Group

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W a personalized approach tailored to each client’s goals. Attention to detail is critical in luxury real estate, so we work collaboratively as a team to ensure nothing is overlooked. At the same time, we place a strong emphasis on performance and staying ahead of market trends. We regularly review marketing strategies, pricing data, and client feedback so we can continuously refine our approach and deliver the strongest possible results. Every property is unique, and luxury clients expect innovation, responsiveness, and discretion — qualities we prioritize in every interaction. Ultimately, consistency comes from having a team that shares the same standards, values, and commitment to excellence. When clients work with us, they know they’re receiving not only experienced representation, but a highly coordinated team dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience and outcome. LPM: With your background in development projects as well as residential sales, how do you advise clients differently when they are investing in luxury developments versus purchasing a primary or secondary residence?

KC: My background in both development projects and residential sales allows me to provide clients with a broader perspective when evaluating luxury real estate opportunities. The approach is often very different depending on whether a client is purchasing for lifestyle purposes or as part of a long-term investment strategy. When advising clients on luxury developments, the conversation tends to focus more heavily on market timing, future value, developer reputation, location growth, and overall investment potential. I help clients look beyond the initial presentation and evaluate factors such as resale demand, construction quality, strata structure, carrying costs, and the long-term vision for the area. In many cases, luxury developments offer strong appreciation potential, but understanding the details and risks is critical to making a sound investment decision. With primary or secondary residences, the focus shifts more toward lifestyle alignment and personal goals. Luxury buyers are often purchasing an experience as much as a property — whether that’s waterfront living, privacy, entertaining space, recreational access, or multi-generational functionality. My role is to help clients identify not only what fits their current needs, but what will continue to serve them well years into the future. Having experience on both sides of the industry also helps me anticipate challenges and opportunities that others may overlook. I’m able to guide clients through the practical and financial considerations while still keeping the emotional aspect of luxury homeownership in mind. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure every client feels confident that their purchase aligns with both their lifestyle and their long-term objectives. LPM: Looking to the future, what key changes do you anticipate in the luxury real estate market in Canada, and how are you preparing your business and clients to navigate what’s coming next?

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As a boutique agency, WE INTENTIONALLY FOCUS ON QUALITY OVER VOLUME. Every property receives a strategy built around its unique position in the market. KC: Looking ahead, I believe the Canadian luxury real estate market will continue evolving toward a more lifestyle-driven and globally connected market. While economic conditions and interest rates will always influence consumer confidence, luxury real estate tends to perform differently than the broader market because many high-net-worth buyers are driven more by lifestyle, long-term wealth preservation, and investment diversification than short-term financing pressures. One of the biggest shifts we’re already seeing is that buyers are becoming far more selective and informed. Presentation, pricing strategy, and overall property quality will matter more than ever. Homes that offer unique experiences — waterfront access, privacy, wellness amenities, sustainability features, and turnkey living — will

continue to command premium attention. At the same time, technology and digital marketing will play an even larger role in how luxury properties are showcased and discovered globally. I also believe the Okanagan will continue to benefit from migration trends, lifestyle-focused buyers, and generational wealth transfer. More people are prioritizing quality of life, flexibility, and destination living, and the Okanagan offers a combination of natural beauty, recreation, wineries, and luxury lifestyle opportunities that are difficult to replicate elsewhere. To prepare our business and clients for what’s ahead, we stay highly focused on market intelligence, innovation, and adaptability. We continuously refine our marketing strategies, invest in digital exposure, and closely monitor both local and national trends so we can provide informed guidance in changing conditions. For our clients, that means helping them make strategic decisions based not only on today’s market, but on long-term value and future positioning. Ultimately, I think the future belongs to professionals who can combine strong local expertise with a sophisticated understanding of evolving buyer behaviour, technology, and global luxury trends. That’s where we continue to focus our energy as a brand and as advisors to our clients.

Learn more about Chamberlain Property Group and its luxury real estate services: www.chamberlainpropertygroup.ca

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PEOPLE FIRST, LUXURY ALWAYS with VANESSA

FUKUNAGA

For Vanessa Fukunaga,

luxury is defined by the quality of relationships,

not the price of a product. She discusses how service, authenticity, technology, and purpose are influencing

luxury real estate, media, and brand leadership.

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: You often say that luxury is defined by service rather than price. What does exceptional service look like today, and what do the most successful luxury brands consistently get right? VANESSA FUKUNAGA: I believe luxury has evolved beyond products and price points. Today, luxury is about how you make people feel. Exceptional service is deeply personal. It’s about anticipating needs before they’re expressed, creating trust through consistency, and delivering experiences that feel effortless while requiring extraordinary attention behind the scenes. The most successful luxury brands never stop listening. They understand that every client is different, and they remain committed to authenticity, excellence, and relationships long after the transaction is complete. When clients return years later, refer their family and friends, or simply call because they trust that you will always be there, that is when luxury as a service has truly succeeded.

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LPM: You lead one of Mexico’s most successful luxury real estate brokerages and a global luxury media platform. How has working across these industries changed the way you approach brand building and client relationships? VF: Leading both businesses has reinforced one important belief: every brand has a story, and every client wants to feel part of it. Real estate isn’t simply about buying and selling property, just as media isn’t simply about publishing content. Both are about building trust, creating meaningful relationships, and delivering value that extends well beyond a single interaction. Media allows us to educate, inspire, and create conversations, while real estate allows us to guide some of life’s most significant decisions. Working across these industries has taught me to think more holistically about brand building. Every property we represent and the way it is marketed, every event and experience we curate, every edition of Ocean Blue Magazine, every podcast conversation, every media interview, every philanthropic initiative, and every client interaction should contribute to one consistent story that reflects who we are, what we stand for, and the value we bring to people’s lives. Ultimately, strong brands aren’t built through marketing alone – they’re built through authenticity, consistency, and the relationships you nurture over time. Whether someone connects with us through Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate or Ocean Blue World, every touchpoint should reinforce the same promise: excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful experiences. LPM: Ocean Blue World has become a respected global platform spanning luxury lifestyle, business, travel, and media, with Ocean Blue Magazine at its core. What is your editorial vision, and how do you ensure it delivers meaningful value to both readers and the luxury brands you feature?

VF: I’ve always believed that the best luxury publications do more than showcase beautiful places or remarkable products – they tell stories that inspire, educate, and create meaningful connections. At Ocean Blue World, our editorial vision is to celebrate the people, businesses, destinations, and ideas that are shaping the future of luxury. Through Ocean Blue Magazine, our digital platforms, curated events, social media, Mod Pod With Fukunaga, and other strategic initiatives, we aim to create content that is both aspirational and purposeful – content that people genuinely enjoy reading because it offers insight, authenticity, and value. For our readers, that means discovering inspiring entrepreneurs, visionary leaders, extraordinary destinations, luxury real estate, wellness, philanthropy, sports, and cultural experiences from around the world. For the brands we feature, it means becoming part of a trusted editorial environment where thoughtful storytelling builds credibility, strengthens reputation, and creates lasting connections with a highly engaged global audience. Our goal is not simply to publish content. It’s to build a platform that connects people, elevates brands, and creates opportunities through meaningful storytelling. LPM: Los Cabos has become one of the world’s leading luxury destinations. What has driven its international appeal, and what are today’s discerning buyers and investors looking for when choosing a market like this? VF: Los Cabos has achieved something very few destinations have. It has evolved from a beautiful vacation destination into a globally recognized luxury market. Its appeal certainly begins with its extraordinary natural beauty, year-round climate, accessibility from major North American cities, world-class hospitality, championship golf, exceptional culinary scene, and growing wellness offering. But what has truly driven its success is the confidence people have in the lifestyle and long-term value the destination provides.

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Today’s luxury buyers are investing in far more than a home – they’re investing in how they want to live. They are looking for security, privacy, exceptional amenities, strong investment fundamentals, and authentic experiences that enrich both their personal and family lives. What continues to set Los Cabos apart is its ability to offer all of those qualities while maintaining a genuine sense of place. It has matured into a destination where luxury feels effortless, the lifestyle is exceptional, and the long-term outlook continues to inspire confidence among buyers and investors from around the world. LPM: Beyond your business success, you’ve invested significant time in philanthropy and community initiatives. Why is giving back such an important part of your leadership philosophy, and how does it strengthen a luxury brand over the long term? VF: I’ve always believed that success comes with responsibility. Building a successful business is important, but using that success to create opportunities for others is what gives it lasting purpose. Giving back has never been about recognition – it’s about making a meaningful difference. Whether we’re supporting children’s charities, education, healthcare, community initiatives, or local organizations, our goal is always the same: to contribute in ways that create lasting, positive impact. I also believe leadership is about showing up, inspiring others to get involved, and using the platforms we’ve built to amplify causes that genuinely matter. I don’t see philanthropy as something separate from business. I believe the strongest luxury brands understand that true leadership extends beyond commercial success. People increasingly want to support businesses that contribute positively to their communities and lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose. At the end of the day, a brand isn’t remembered solely for what it sells – it is remembered for the difference it makes in people’s lives. To me, that’s one of the greatest measures of success. LPM: Looking ahead, what trends do you believe will have the greatest impact on the luxury real estate and luxury media industries over the next five to ten years, and how should businesses prepare for them? VF: I believe we’re entering one of the most exciting periods the luxury industry has ever experienced. Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly transform the way we communicate, market, analyze data, and serve our clients. It will help businesses become more efficient, more personalized, and more responsive than ever before. But I don’t believe technology will replace the human

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element. In luxury, it will actually make authentic relationships even more valuable. At the same time, clients are becoming increasingly discerning. They want transparency, personalization, meaningful experiences, and brands that genuinely reflect their values. Whether they’re purchasing a home, choosing a destination, or engaging with a media platform, they’re looking for authenticity as much as excellence. For businesses, my advice is simple: embrace innovation without losing your identity. Invest in technology, continue learning, and remain adaptable – but never lose sight of the relationships, trust, and service that define true luxury. Technology should enhance the human experience, not replace it. The businesses that will lead over the next decade won’t necessarily be those with the biggest budgets or the newest technology. They’ll be the ones that combine innovation with authenticity, lead with purpose, and never stop putting people at the heart of everything they do.

Connect with Vanessa on LinkedIn to follow her latest insights on luxury real estate, media, and leadership, or visit Ocean Blue World at www.oceanblueworld.com to learn more about its global luxury platform.

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FIVE DECADES, ONE FAMILY VISION with CHRIS RAVEIS and RYAN RAVEIS For more than five decades, William Raveis has built its reputation on family ownership, long-term relationships, and a full-service approach to luxury real estate. Co-Presidents Chris Raveis and Ryan Raveis discuss what today’s high-net-worth clients expect, the role of technology, and why personalized service remains central to their business.

This 7,394-square-foot modern estate in Southport, Connecticut, was sold for $12 million in April 2026

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$135 million estate in Manalapan, Florida

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: William Raveis is named Best Luxury Full-Service Real Estate Brokerage in the USA by the global experts at Luxury Lifestyle Awards. What does that recognition mean to you both, and how does it reflect the standards and client experience your company has created over the years? CHRIS RAVEIS: We are proud to set the highest standard in real estate. Our company is built on family values. At William Raveis, we live by the motto, “Our sales associates are our customers.” This is what distinguishes us from the competitors. RYAN RAVEIS: Chris and I represent the next generation of leadership. Both of us grew up in the real estate industry, watching the drive and resilience that our father, Bill, demonstrates, and what it takes to thrive and survive the ups and downs, every economic cycle and market condition. These lessons are invaluable for building a successful family business for 20, 30, and 50 years from now. LPM: Luxury buyers today expect far more than a real estate transaction. From in-house mortgage and insurance companies to wealth management and concierge assistance, how do you decide which services add real value, and what do clients appreciate most about an integrated approach? RYAN RAVEIS: We surpass the real estate transactional model. William Raveis Mortgage is a Top Mortgage Lender, ranked by Scotsman Guide,

Ryan Raveis and Chris Raveis a highly respected U.S. industry source. Likewise, William Raveis Insurance partners with over 50 national carriers for the best insurance coverage with premium savings. Our clients enjoy seamless experiences through Elite Concierge Services for home utility connections, moving logistics, and wealth management – all under one roof. This suite of services sets us apart in the marketplace. LPM: Ryan, you’ve led the latest technology advancements with AI and Raveis365+ while Chris spearheaded expansions to your company footprint across the East Coast’s most competitive luxury markets. How do technology and personal relationships work together to deliver results without losing the human element that high-end clients expect? CHRIS RAVEIS: It speaks volumes that our sales associates stay with our independent family company nearly twice the national average in years compared to other brokerages. We have a unique business model. As their operating partner, we help them grow their businesses. This commitment builds very strong personal relationships with our agents. This mindset also translates to how William Raveis’ agents outperform the marketplace and maintain clients for life.

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Philippe inspire us to be the best, we never follow trends. Being an independent brokerage gives us the freedom to pivot with the real estate market. It is reputation and doing what’s right by the client, that’s really what buyers and sellers should expect from their real estate advisor. William Raveis also partners with the leading global network, connecting our clients to over 129,000 agents, 500 companies, spanning 70 countries. LPM: Looking ahead, what do you believe will define success for luxury real estate companies over the next five to ten years, and what priorities will be most important for William Raveis as the market continues to change? RYAN RAVEIS: Vision and agility. This occurs naturally because we’re a privately held company that has catered to the luxury real estate sector for more than five decades. With over 4,500 sales associates and 140 offices throughout the Northeast, Florida, and South Carolina, we continue our disciplined expansion across strategically connected markets, aligning with high-performing agents that share the same long-term vision and high standard of service. RYAN RAVEIS: We’ve created a novel advertising campaign that beautifully ties with our luxury brand. Our series showcases Fine Art and messaging around William Raveis founding principles. As innovators, we’re always finding new ways to elevate the customer experience. One recent example is Raveis365+, our proprietary technology platform, powered by AI and virtual assistant, Maia, to help agents streamline the process of buying and selling a home. We use AI thoughtfully and always to strengthen these relationships.

Learn more about William Raveis: www.raveis.com Follow Chris Raveis and Ryan Raveis on Instagram.

LPM: Luxury real estate is closely connected to wider trends in travel, design, architecture, finance, and lifestyle. Which changes outside the property sector are having the biggest influence on what high-net-worth buyers and sellers are looking for today? CHRIS RAVEIS: The theme for our new marketing campaign is: Who Represents You Matters. Our clientele requires utmost attention, discretion, in addition to local connections and market insights. Our sales associates deliver this and more every day. Whereas luxury brands like Chanel and Patek

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WHERE HOSPITALITY MEETS LIFELONG WELLBEING with DAN LAVENDER Luxury senior living today is about far more than beautiful residences and premium amenities. Dan Lavender, CEO and President of Moorings Park Communities, discusses what affluent residents expect, why wellness and belonging matter as much as hospitality, and how the sector is preparing for the next generation of retirees.

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Dan Lavender, CEO and President of Moorings Park Communities

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Moorings Park Communities was recently recognized with a Luxury Lifestyle Award for Best Luxury Senior Living Development. What do you believe sets Moorings Park’s communities apart in a market where residents increasingly expect both exceptional hospitality and comprehensive care? DAN LAVENDER: First, thank you. Winning the Luxury Lifestyle Award truly is an honor for Moorings Park Communities. I believe what truly sets us apart is that we never view luxury as an end in itself. For us, luxury means creating an environment where people can live where they can belong, connect, and flourish. Moorings Park’s communities serve some of the most accomplished people in the world who don’t believe they should have to compromise on lifestyle just because they are older. They are looking for thoughtfully designed residences, exceptional dining, rich cultural and social experiences, and a wellness-forward lifestyle. They also want the added assurance of having access to a full continuum of care should their

health needs ever change. In senior living, that combination is incredibly important. Residents want elegance and hospitality, certainly, but they also want trust, security, and the assurance that they will be supported for the long term. Our goal has always been to bring those elements together in a way that feels seamless, personal, and deeply respectful of each individual. LPM: Having spent most of your career serving seniors and leading organizations through periods of growth, how has your perspective on luxury changed when it comes to retirement living, and what do today’s residents value most? DL: My perspective on luxury has evolved quite a bit over the years. I think today’s residents certainly appreciate beautiful surroundings, excellent service, and high-quality amenities, but they are also looking for something deeper. They want a lifestyle that supports independence, purpose, wellbeing, and meaningful connection. In many ways, luxury in retirement living has become less about excess and more about intentionality — how well a community anticipates needs, how personalized the experience feels, and whether people feel truly known and valued. The affluent residents we serve, typically within the top 10% of net wealth in the country, are sophisticated and discerning. They want wellness opportunities, strong social engagement, lifelong learning, excellent healthcare access, and the confidence that they can continue living life fully. To me, that is the modern definition of luxury senior living.

LUXURY MEANS CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT

where people can belong, connect, and flourish.

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W LPM: Moorings Park Communities combines high-end residences, wellness services, fine dining, and active social programming. How do you balance delivering a luxury experience while maintaining the strong sense of community and purpose that residents seek? DL: That balance is essential because the most beautiful community in the world only goes so far if people do not feel they belong. We have created a proprietary program called TrueSpan to make sure the resident experience is both elevated and deeply human. The residences, dining venues, wellness spaces, and programming all matter, but what makes them meaningful is the sense of connection they help create. We want residents to enjoy exceptional surroundings while also building friendships, pursuing passions, and remaining engaged in the life of the community. Purpose is a very important part of successful living. So while we are committed to delivering a refined and hospitality-driven experience, we are equally committed to fostering belonging, dignity, and opportunities for residents to continue growing, contributing, and living with intention. LPM: Sustainability, wellness, and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important across the luxury sector. How do initiatives such as your LEED-certified developments and community health programs contribute to the overall resident experience and the organization’s long-term vision? DL: Those priorities are becoming central to the future of luxury, and I believe they are equally important in senior living. Our LEED-certified buildings reflect a commitment to thoughtful design, environmental responsibility, and creating healthier places to live. At the same time, wellness is not something we view as a single program or amenity — it is part of the everyday experience. It influences how we design our campuses, how we approach fitness and healthcare, how we encourage social connection, and how we help residents remain active in mind, body, and spirit. As a nonprofit organization, social responsibility also has a broader meaning for us. We want to serve not only our residents but also contribute positively to the larger community. Over the long

term, I think that combination of sustainability, wellness, and purpose-driven service will continue to define what leading senior living organizations should aspire to be. LPM: Looking ahead, what changes do you expect to see in the senior living industry over the next decade, and how should leading communities prepare to meet the expectations of future generations of residents? DL: Over the next decade, I expect the senior living industry to become even more personalized, wellness-oriented, and experiencedriven. Future residents will likely arrive with very high expectations around design, technology, hospitality, preventive health, and flexibility. They will want communities that feel vibrant and contemporary, but also adaptable to their changing needs. I also believe there will be a growing emphasis on longevity, cognitive wellbeing, sustainability, and integrated healthcare models that help people stay healthier for longer. For leading communities, preparation starts with listening carefully to what residents value, investing in talented team members, embracing innovation thoughtfully, and remaining committed to service excellence. The industry has a real opportunity to redefine what aging can look like, and I think the communities that succeed will be the ones that combine sophistication with compassion and innovation with a very human touch.

Learn more about Moorings Park Communities: www.mooringspark.org

The most beautiful community in the world only goes so far

IF PEOPLE DO NOT FEEL THEY BELONG.

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Bea Sajon

Markus Venzin

Jean-Claude Messant Chief Operating Officer Royal Mansour Collection

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Vincenzo Pujia

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General Manager, Continental Europe Virtuoso

Chief Executive Officer EHL Group

President & Chief Executive Officer The Leading Hotel of the World

Sustainability and Special Projects Manager Il Borro

Chef 14 stelle Michelin

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THE BUSINESS OF CONFIDENCE AND TRUST with ELIZABETH JANOWSKI

Luxury today is less about exclusivity and more about authenticity, trust, and meaningful relationships. Elizabeth Janowski, CEO of Sonata Aesthetics, explains why genuine care, emotional intelligence, and long-term client connections remain the strongest differentiators in a rapidly growing industry. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: What does luxury mean to today’s aesthetics client, and how has that changed the way Sonata Aesthetics approaches its products and brand experience? ELIZABETH JANOWSKI: Our industry has been overrun by chains and faceless experiences with fancy names. At Sonata, you get who you see on our webpage - and we are your friends, neighbors, and contemporaries. There is saying you offer concierge care and a luxury experience, and then there is delivering it - by following up with clients, standing by your word, and being what and who you say you are. LPM: As CEO, how do you balance scientific credibility, innovation, and the expectations that come with operating in the premium beauty and aesthetics market? EJ: I believe in leading by having a bigger vision of why we do what we do. The med spa industry seems superficial, but has a mission of meeting people where they are at and helping them claim the beauty and confidence they desire. It’s a delicate and thoughtful process and requires keen emotional awareness. I look for that in my staff and encourage them to have empathy for each and every client.

Elizabeth Janowski, CEO of Sonata Aesthetics

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LPM: The luxury sector is becoming more focused on personalization and long-term customer relationships. How is that influencing the way you think about growth and client engagement? EJ: Personal experiences and long-term care have always been how we have run our business.

over the next five to ten years, and what opportunities or challenges do you expect to have the greatest impact? EJ: I think people are seeking deeper meaning and more connection in all of their encounters - and with how they spend their dollars. I think people who can speak to the emotional complexity of the med spa industry and the beauty journey will survive, while other trends fall to the side.

Discover more about Sonata Aesthetics: www.sonataskinandbody.com LPM: The aesthetics industry continues to attract new competitors and technologies. What do you believe separates brands that build lasting trust from those that simply follow market trends? EJ: There was a moment in 2020 and 2021 when our industry exploded with nurses wanting to exit their traditional health care jobs and become aesthetic injectors. It is possible to become an aesthetic injector with just a weekend course under your belt. However, this bloated the industry with people with very little experience and a lack of understanding of total facial beauty and symmetry, the complications that can arise, and how to see the aesthetic journey as a longterm one. LPM: Looking ahead, what do you think will define success in the luxury aesthetics industry

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CREATING PLACES PEOPLE VALUE with NAJEEB AMIN PARDESI

For Najeeb Amin Pardesi, luxury is measured

by the everyday experience of the people who live within a development, not simply by its finishes or amenities. The Giga Group Vice Chairman and CEO discusses customer trust, continuous improvement, and why long-term value remains the company’s defining priority.

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We always strive to commit less and DELIVER MORE. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Giga Group has built a strong presence across real estate, retail, and global markets. How do you balance delivering luxury developments while maintaining scale and operational efficiency across such a diversified portfolio?

LPM: Your projects like Goldcrest Views and Giga Mall have received international recognition at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards. What specific elements or decisions do you believe set these developments apart in terms of design, experience, and long-term value?

NAJEEB AMIN PARDESI: At Giga Group, passion is at the heart of every process. Without passion, it becomes difficult to pursue excellence beyond the minimum requirements. Passion is what drives the desire to continuously improve, refine, and elevate every aspect of a project.

NAP: The most important thing would be the passion to deliver excellence and a commitment to constant improvement. Even when a project is complete, it remains a living project for us. We continue adding value to it and enhancing its overall quality and experience. What differentiates us from other projects and developers is the value we place on our clients’ trust. We understand the challenges people have faced through global shifts, economic uncertainty, wars, and pandemics. We know that this is their hard-earned money, which is why we always strive to commit less and deliver more. Our clients are not just investors; they are like family to us. In fact, the level of trust they place in us sometimes feels overwhelming because it creates a responsibility to deliver the level of satisfaction they expect from us.

We believe that every habitat has its own unique purpose and requirements. These are not just buildings; they are environments where people live, work, play, and prosper. That is why we do not sell square feet; we sell habitats. Each of our projects is developed with care, attention, and a genuine commitment to the people who will experience it. This philosophy is what enables our communities to stand apart. Our commitment to improvement does not end when a project is delivered. Even after completion, we continue to identify opportunities to enhance quality, functionality, and the overall resident experience. If there is room to make something better, we believe it should be improved. Excellence is not a milestone that is reached once – it is a continuous journey. At Giga Group, every prototype, every sample, and every stage of construction becomes an opportunity to learn and improve. By testing, refining, and enhancing each element, we ensure that the final outcome is significantly stronger than the original concept. This process of continuous evolution enables us to deliver communities that are more thoughtful, more functional, and more valuable than what was initially envisioned.

As far as the experience is concerned, Views Community is not just going to be a place to live; it is going to be a place where people will come to relax and enjoy life, almost like a vacation destination. It will have more swimming pools than the number of towers within the development. The community will feature multiple spas, multiple play areas, and over 300,000 square feet of dedicated lifestyle space on top of the podium.

Goldcrest Views

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Giga Boutique Mall

Residents will have access to cuisines from around the world, along with cafés, entertainment, retail outlets, toys, jewelry, and much more. It will feel like a mini city of its own. What will truly set it apart, however, is its ambience and environment. Every place has its own vibe, and we believe that vibe is created by how the people living there feel. If people feel safe, the place feels safe. If they feel happy, content, prosperous, and are genuinely enjoying their lives, that energy becomes part of the community itself. We want residents to live without worrying about maintenance, security, backup systems, daily necessities, groceries, or where they can entertain their guests. That is why we have created a variety of spaces for social gatherings and family interaction. Children will be able to move around freely throughout the community, and the scale of the recreational offering – 300,000 square feet of lifestyle and recreation space – is something that is rarely found elsewhere. When we design a project, we think from the perspective of a customer. We ask ourselves what we would want if we were living there. That is why we focus on details that are often overlooked. For example, apartment storage solutions are rarely provided at this level, even in many developed countries. Features such as dedicated storage spaces may seem small, and they require additional planning and safety systems, but they make everyday life significantly more comfortable. Similarly, we pay close attention to practical aspects such as wardrobe space and functionality, areas where many developments fall short. The

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When we design a project, WE THINK FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF A CUSTOMER. project will continue to improve even before delivery. As construction progresses and samples are developed, we will continue refining and improving every aspect of the project. LPM: Customer satisfaction is clearly a priority for Giga Group, with a reported 99.99 percent rate. What practical strategies do you implement to ensure clients not only invest with confidence but also feel a strong sense of trust and longterm connection to your brand? NAP: When it comes to our relationship with clients, we do not operate solely by what is written in the agreement. For example, if a customer faces unforeseen circumstances and wishes to cancel their investment, the contract may state that a penalty applies and that the refund is only processed upon project delivery. However, Alhamdulillah, we have always tried to approach such situations from a human perspective. If a genuine case arises, we do our best to support the

customer, even if it means going beyond the strict terms of the agreement. After all, that person trusted us with their investment, and we place immense value on that trust. Our commitment to clients does not end once they have invested. We continuously look for ways to create additional value for them. A good example is our older buildings, which were not originally designed with Sky Parks. Later, we introduced Sky Parks as an added feature, giving residents an unexpected enhancement to their living experience. As a result, those properties experienced significant appreciation in value years after they had already been delivered. This philosophy benefits everyone. Every improvement we make strengthens the value of our existing developments while also raising the standard for the projects we undertake in the future. Continuous value creation becomes part of the entire ecosystem we are building. At its core, this comes from a progressive mindset – the belief that you should always strive to be better than you were before. It is a principle we draw from our religion: each day should be better than the last. In the same way, every project should be better than it was yesterday. We should never stop improving, refining, and adding value. That continuous pursuit of improvement is probably where the real satisfaction comes from. LPM: Looking ahead, what major changes do you expect in the luxury real estate and commercial development space over the next decade, particularly in emerging markets like Pakistan, and how is Giga Group preparing to respond to them? NAP: Luxury real estate, particularly in the vertical development segment, is likely to become even rarer in Pakistan over time. If we look at the country’s history, there have been

very few truly large-scale vertical communities. Developments of this scale and complexity are difficult to find, and that rarity is only expected to increase. As we witness shifts in global economic and social dynamics, the need for resilience is becoming more important across every sector. This is not limited to real estate development; it applies to every industry. Any sector that fails to continuously improve, adapt, and build resilience into its operations will gradually struggle to remain competitive and relevant. What is being delivered today, however, has the potential to redefine the status quo of Pakistan’s real estate landscape. The projects we are currently delivering, those under development, and those we have already completed are setting a benchmark that is difficult to match. With over 3,000 families already living in our Downtown community, it is hard to find another vertical community in the country that compares in terms of scale, execution, and lived experience. Looking ahead over the next decade, anyone undertaking projects of this nature will need to be prepared for significant challenges. Greater market exposure and increasing awareness will undoubtedly help developers create betterdesigned and more sophisticated communities. At the same time, they will need the resilience, determination, and long-term commitment required to navigate inflation, economic pressures, and changing market conditions while still delivering projects on time. Developments of this scale require more than vision alone. They require the ability to adapt, persevere, and execute consistently through changing circumstances. That is what will separate those who succeed from those who do not in the years ahead. Learn more about Giga Group’s developments: www.gigagroup.com

Giga Mall

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At a Glance Brand: Lilly Pulitzer Campaign: Summer 2026 Location: Coral Sands Inn & Cottages, Harbour Island, Bahamas Collection: Swimwear, Resort Wear & Accessories Photography: Gabor Jurina Website: www.lillypulitzer.com

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BRAND SPOTLIGHT

LILLY PULITZER CHOOSES CORAL SANDS FOR SUMMER 2026 CAMPAIGN A fashion campaign that brings together resort heritage, boutique hospitality, and destination marketing on Harbour Island. Fashion and hospitality partnerships have become an important part of luxury marketing, with brands selecting destinations that complement their identity as much as their collections. Lilly Pulitzer’s Summer 2026 campaign, photographed at Coral Sands Inn & Cottages on Harbour Island, Bahamas, pairs one of America’s best-known resort wear brands with one of the Caribbean’s most established boutique hotels. Known for its pastel architecture, pink sand beaches, and relaxed island atmosphere, Coral Sands provides a setting that reflects Lilly Pulitzer’s colorful aesthetic while reinforcing the hotel’s position as a destination for luxury travelers. The collaboration also connects two brands with a shared history. Coral Sands opened in 1968, the same year Lilly Pulitzer introduced its Harlillyquin print. For Summer 2026, the archival design returns in two new colorways and scales, linking the latest collection with one of the brand’s most recognizable prints.

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W A SHARED HERITAGE Photographed throughout the recently refreshed Coral Sands property, the campaign features the hotel’s striped beach cabana, tropical gardens, and oceanfront setting. Recent renovations have retained the property’s original character while introducing contemporary updates that complement the collection. Harbour Island’s pink beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical landscape appear throughout the campaign in bold prints, crisp stripes, and relaxed silhouettes. Images move between Coral Sands, Dunmore Town, and the shoreline, giving the collection a clear sense of place. Captured by photographer Gabor Jurina, the Summer 2026 collection includes swimwear, resort wear, and accessories designed for coastal travel and leisure. THE BUSINESS OF DESTINATION PARTNERSHIPS

The idea of emotional dressing, fashion chosen for how it makes you feel, is central to this collection. Mira Fain

Chief Creative Officer, Lilly Pulitzer

Luxury brands continue to use destination campaigns to strengthen their identity while extending their reach through hospitality and travel. For boutique hotels, collaborations with established fashion houses offer international visibility beyond traditional travel marketing. For fashion brands, carefully chosen locations add depth and credibility to campaign imagery. “Hosting Lilly Pulitzer’s Summer 2026 campaign at Coral Sands was a natural partnership, bringing together two brands that share a deep appreciation for bold, colorful design, timeless storytelling, and effortless sophistication,” said Ruben Navarro, Chief Brand Officer at AJ Capital Partners. For Coral Sands, the campaign places Harbour Island before a global luxury audience. As part of the partnership, the hotel will also carry a curated assortment of Lilly Pulitzer products, extending the collaboration beyond the campaign. For Lilly Pulitzer, it reinforces the brand’s connection to resort living through a destination that has long been associated with relaxed elegance.

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WHY PRINT STILL MATTERS with JAMES PHILLIPS Photos by Grace Rose

As the owner of JWP Media Group and publisher of Relentless Magazine, James Phillips believes that premium print remains one of the most powerful ways to build credibility and meaningful connections. He shares why luxury publishing is entering a new chapter in which print, digital media and strategic partnerships work together to create lasting value. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: Luxury People Magazine: Relentless Magazine was recently recognized in the WLCC Selection: TOP Luxury Media of the World 2026. What does this recognition mean to you personally, and what do you believe distinguishes Relentless in today’s luxury media landscape? JAMES PHILLIPS: It’s a fantastic honor to be recognized. It represents the culmination of countless late nights, hard work and investment, not just from me, but from our entire team and our incredible contributors. From the outset, Relentless has always been about meaningful journalism: strong interviews with successful and inspiring people, alongside stories of relentless drive, dynamic lives and resilience. We have deliberately sought to create something with substance rather than simply producing pages of advertising. I believe diversification is essential in modern publishing, particularly when operating within an already saturated luxury media landscape. You have to understand what makes your publication different and find your own niche. For me, the word “luxury” is applied to so many publications. True luxury isn’t simply about expensive products or destinations; it’s about the look, the feel, the experiences and, most importantly, the people behind them. It’s the individuals who create, shape and deliver those exceptional lifestyle experiences, and those are the stories I want Relentless to tell.

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LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: LPM: In an era dominated by digital content and social media, what role do you believe a premium print magazine still plays in creating meaningful connections with luxury audiences? JP: Around 20 years ago, print publishing took a significant hit. With the arrival of Kindle, digital media and the explosion of social media, there were countless predictions that print was dead. But everything moves in cycles, and I think we’re now seeing a real resurgence. People are increasingly yearning for a simpler, less complicated life and a more tangible experience, and print delivers exactly that. Our latest issue is a great example. It features the founder of a gourmet aviation food company that supplies exclusive cuisine to private jets around the world, and Atoessa is our front-cover star. As a result, Relentless is now being placed on the private jets her company services across the Caribbean, Nice, Paris, and the UAE. That creates an incredibly powerful distribution model and puts the magazine directly in front of the international audience we want to reach. There is also something inherently special about a physical magazine. The visual appeal, the feel of the paper and the simple act of flicking through the pages create a sensory experience that digital media simply can’t replicate in quite the same way. And, of course, there is the novelty and privilege of seeing yourself on the front cover of a magazine. That feeling is timeless, and I don’t think it will ever fade.

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Magazines, and increasingly digital magazines and social media, are fundamentally about the visual experience. We live in a world of instant visual gratification, where attention is limited, and people are constantly consuming content at speed. That’s why it still surprises me when someone tells me they have read one of our magazines cover to cover.

LPM: Luxury brands today are navigating a rapidly changing communications landscape, with AI-powered search and content discovery becoming increasingly important. How do you see the role of trusted editorial media evolving as brands seek both visibility and credibility? JP: The ultimate credibility is still print because you have to be chosen to appear in it, even when there is a commercial element involved. With the cost of producing quality print now incredibly high, we have to be highly selective about the content and the people we feature. That selectivity is part of what gives the magazine its value and credibility. At the same time, we’re not putting all our focus on a single print publication. We’re building a portfolio of platforms, services and opportunities around the magazine. The idea is to make the magazine a powerful marketing tool, rather than relying on it to be the only tool in your arsenal. For us, the future of publishing is about creating an ecosystem where print, digital, social, PR and strategic partnerships all work together to create far greater value and reach. LPM: Over the years, you’ve worked across several media platforms with different audiences and formats. What qualities do you believe define outstanding luxury journalism, regardless of whether it appears in print or online? JP: For me, it’s all about access: the access a journalist can achieve to uncover and tell stories that people simply haven’t seen before. That’s where the real value lies.

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I think that says something quite powerful. In an age where everyone is competing for a few seconds of attention, if you can create something compelling enough that someone wants to slow down, turn the pages and genuinely immerse themselves in the content, you’ve achieved something special. Increasingly, I’m noticing Instagram posts where people deliberately showcase themselves as being well-read and worldly, often with a magazine under their arm or positioned as a prop within the image. It’s interesting because the magazine becomes more than just something to read; it becomes a visual symbol of culture, sophistication and aspiration, helping to position the individual within a world where they are perceived as informed, well-read and worldly-wise. In that sense, print still carries a certain cultural currency. It can become part of the image, the identity and the lifestyle being portrayed. LPM: Looking ahead, what opportunities and challenges do you believe will define the next chapter for luxury media? JP: Cost. This is undoubtedly the biggest challenge. Printing costs continue to rise year after year, while distribution costs have remained relatively stable, aside from increases caused by Brexitrelated import taxes. Print production, however, continues to become more expensive. Selling print advertising is another significant challenge. This is why, as I mentioned earlier, you cannot put all your eggs in one basket with a magazine. Instead, your publication should form one part of a broader portfolio of products and services. By packaging your magazine alongside complementary marketing opportunities, you can create a far more compelling proposition that delivers greater value to clients and makes your offering much more attractive. In over 30 years’ experience in publishing, there has never been more choice or more opportunity to be successful. At JWP Media Group, we are here for it.

Discover Relentless Magazine in the WLCC Media Hub and explore exclusive media opportunities available to WLCC members.

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WHAT LUXURY AT SEA MEANS NOW with CONSTANCE BRÉMENT

As Cannes Yachting Festival prepares for its 49th edition, Director Constance Brément reflects on what is driving demand, how luxury at sea has changed, and why the next generation of owners is asking for something more personal, flexible and responsible. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: For someone visiting the Cannes Yachting Festival for the very first time, what do you hope they will take away from the experience? CONSTANCE BRÉMENT: It is always a genuine pleasure to welcome new visitors to the Cannes Yachting Festival, whether they are industry professionals, boating enthusiasts, yacht owners or simply curious to discover the world of yachting.

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What I hope first-time visitors will feel from the moment they arrive is a true sense of wonder, a source of inspiration and exploration. The Cannes Yachting Festival is Europe’s leading in-water boat show and the first major event of the international boating season. That status takes on its full meaning when you find yourself surrounded by a fleet of more than 700 boats displayed across the iconic harbors of the Bay of Cannes: the Vieux Port and Port Canto.

Above all, I hope that after spending a day exploring our pontoons, every visitor leaves with one simple conviction: the sea is within reach, boating is vibrant, and there is a place for everyone in this world. One of the Festival’s greatest strengths is its ability to showcase the full breadth and diversity of the boating industry. LPM: The 2025 edition of the Cannes Yachting Festival set new records, welcoming around 56,000 visitors, nearly 680 exhibitors, and almost 150 world premieres. What do these milestones say about the current state of the yachting industry, and what can visitors look forward to in the 2026 edition? CB: The figures from the 2025 edition highlight the remarkable resilience of our industry in a market entering a phase of normalization after the postpandemic boom: 710 boats on display, 147 world premieres, a 22.5% increase, and exhibitor satisfaction up by 20%. What these figures ultimately show is that boatbuilders choose the Cannes Yachting Festival to showcase the very best of their expertise, because it brings together 56,000 qualified visitors from 130 countries, 30% of whom have a concrete purchase project. In 2026, we have also redesigned our ticketing offer to better meet the expectations and needs of every visitor. New experiences include the Sea Access – Vieux Port ticket, a dedicated concierge service, access to the VIP Clubs at both harbors, private yacht tours and even helicopter transfers from the airport. The Cannes Yachting Festival is also one of the few venues where contemporary yachting is showcased in all its diversity. Beyond the yachts themselves, we enhance stakeholders who bring the entire leisure boating industry to life: marinas, destinations, equipment manufacturers, engine builders, and the finest craftsmanship presented at the Palais des Festivals, from cabinetmaking and interior design to bespoke linens and onboard connectivity.

TRUE LUXURY IS NO LONGER NECESSARILY ABOUT OWNING THE LARGEST OR MOST POWERFUL YACHT. It is about choosing a yacht that reflects your personality, values, lifestyle and vision of life on the water.

LPM: Beyond being a showcase for exceptional yachts, the Festival has become an important meeting place for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors. How do you see its role as a platform for networking and building long-term business relationships? CB: We are fortunate to enjoy an exceptional level of exhibitor loyalty, with 75% of our exhibitors returning every year. This is an invaluable vote of confidence and clear evidence that the Cannes Yachting Festival has become a fully fledged business ecosystem, an essential event for shipyards from around the world.

The Cannes Yachting Festival is held across the Vieux Port and Port Canto, two iconic harbours in the heart of Cannes.

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W Over six days, within one unique setting, we bring together all the key players in the international boating industry, more than 600 journalists from nearly 40 countries, and over 56,000 qualified visitors. This is where decisions are made: partnerships are formed, client relationships are developed, sea trials take place, and contracts are signed. Our role is to create the best possible conditions for these encounters to grow into longlasting business relationships. LPM: What does “luxury” mean to you today, and how has that definition changed in the yachting industry over the past decade?

THIS IS WHERE DECISIONS ARE MADE: partnerships are formed, client relationships are developed, sea trials take place, and contracts are signed.

CB: Luxury in the boating world has undergone a profound transformation, and I find this evolution fascinating. Ten years ago, it was measured primarily by the size of a yacht and the power of its engines. Today, a yacht is a place to live, a customized design and an invitation to experience freedom and travel, and buyers increasingly see it that way. True luxury is no longer necessarily about owning the largest or most powerful yacht. It is about choosing a yacht that reflects your personality, values, lifestyle and vision of life on the water. It has become something more personal, more authentic. Luxury today also embraces a greater sense of responsibility: a yacht that is more efficient, more environmentally conscious and more in harmony with the marine environment in which it operates. LPM: What do you think will define the next chapter of the yachting industry, from innovation and sustainability to changing customer expectations? CB: Boating is being redefined today as a complete art de vivre, and several powerful trends are shaping the next chapter of the industry. First, there is the diversification of ways to access life on the water. Yacht clubs, shared ownership, charter and yacht management programs are attracting a new generation of boating enthusiasts who value flexibility and experiences over ownership alone. Another key trend is the increasing internationalization of the market, with regions such as Asia, the Middle East and Latin America playing an ever more significant role. Their growing presence is broadening the customer base and reshaping the global dynamics of the industry. And, of course, sustainability is no longer an option but a fundamental expectation for the new generation of buyers.

Visit the WLCC Events Calendar for event details, member benefits, and exclusive access opportunities. 80 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

DISCOVER THE BEST LUXURY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN POLAND

THE UPPER HOUSE BY ANGEL

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GOLF HAS A NEW DRESS CODE with KA HO

As Creative Director of HEAD Golf, Ka Ho brings technical performance and contemporary design into a wardrobe intended to work beyond the course. He discusses material innovation, travel as a creative influence, responsible production, and what a new generation of golfers expects from the brands they wear. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: HEAD Golf is bringing together technical performance, design, and sustainability in a category often defined by tradition. Where do you see the biggest opportunity to challenge expectations in golf apparel today? KA HO: Golf has always respected tradition, but today’s golfer lives a very different lifestyle. They want apparel that performs on the course yet feels equally relevant in the city, while traveling, or during everyday life. The biggest opportunity is

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to remove the boundaries between performance sportswear and contemporary fashion. At HEAD Golf, we’re combining technical fabrics, thoughtful tailoring, and refined silhouettes to create pieces that move naturally between these environments. Sustainability is also becoming an expectation rather than an option, so we’re continuously exploring innovative materials and responsible manufacturing without compromising comfort or performance. I believe the future of golf apparel is about creating products that feel timeless, versatile, and purposeful.

THE BIGGEST OPPORTUNITY IS to remove the boundaries between performance sportswear and contemporary fashion. LPM: Your travels have played a major role in your creative process. Can you share a destination, culture, or experience that directly influenced a recent collection and how that inspiration translated into the final designs? KH: Travel has always been one of my greatest sources of inspiration because every destination tells a different story through its landscape, architecture, and culture. Our recent Coastal Reverie collection was inspired by the rhythm of the coastline, where golf meets the ocean. During my travels, I was fascinated by the textures of coral, seaweed, shells, and coastal flowers, as well as the relaxed elegance of seaside golf clubs. Those observations became subtle prints, calming color palettes, lightweight textures, and relaxed tailoring throughout the collection. Rather than directly copying nature, we translated its atmosphere into wearable pieces that evoke a feeling of freedom and quiet luxury.

LPM: Luxury consumers increasingly expect products to deliver both craftsmanship and purpose. How do you balance innovation, aesthetics, and functionality while ensuring HEAD Golf remains authentic to its sporting heritage? KH: HEAD has built its reputation on innovation in sports for decades, and that heritage guides every decision we make. We begin with performance, advanced fabrics, comfort, breathability, stretch, and technical construction, and then refine every detail through design. Every seam, silhouette, and material is chosen to enhance both movement and appearance. Our goal is never to create fashion for fashion’s sake, but to design garments that solve real problems while elevating the golfer’s experience. That balance between technical innovation and sophisticated design allows us to stay true to HEAD’s sporting DNA while presenting a fresh vision for modern golf.

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W LPM: Many premium brands are exploring how to create stronger emotional connections with their audiences. Beyond the garments themselves, what kind of relationship do you want golfers to have with the HEAD Golf brand? KH: I want people to see HEAD Golf as more than apparel. We want to inspire a lifestyle that celebrates curiosity, creativity, and a genuine love for the game. Golf has an incredible ability to connect generations, cultures, and friendships, and we hope our brand becomes part of those experiences. Whether it’s someone’s first round or their hundredth, we want them to feel confident, comfortable, and authentically themselves. Ultimately, we hope golfers associate HEAD Golf with memorable moments, meaningful experiences, and a community that values both performance and individuality. LPM: Looking ahead, what changes do you expect to see in the golf and luxury sportswear industries over the next five years, and how is HEAD Golf preparing for that future? KH: The next five years will see golf become even more global, younger, and culturally connected. The boundaries between luxury fashion, performance apparel, and lifestyle products will continue to disappear. Consumers will also expect greater transparency, smarter materials, and products designed with longevity in mind. At HEAD Golf, we’re investing in innovative fabric technologies, sustainable sourcing, and design that remains relevant beyond a single season. We’re also building a global brand that speaks to golfers from different cultures while staying rooted in HEAD’s legacy of innovation. Our vision is to shape the future of golf by creating products that are technically exceptional, beautifully designed, and meaningful to the people who wear them.

Discover more about HEAD Golf: www.headgolf.com

OUR GOAL IS NEVER TO CREATE FASHION FOR FASHION’S SAKE, but to design garments that solve real problems while elevating the golfer’s experience. 84 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

FIND HOMES, SECURE INVESTMENTS. CITYSCAPE GLOBAL 2026

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THE LUXURY OF ATTENTION IN A WORLD OF NOTIFICATIONS with ADAM BUSBY For Adam Busby, The Executive Magazine reflects the way senior leaders actually live: business decisions, personal interests, and valuable relationships all occupy the same day. He discusses why the publication combines business intelligence with luxury lifestyle, what meaningful media exposure looks like, and why print and in-person experiences still matter. 86 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

Visibility matters, but visibility that provides real value and tangible results is WHAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE. LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: The Executive Magazine brings together business intelligence and luxury lifestyle content for senior executives. What led you to develop this combination, and how does it reflect the interests of your readers? ADAM BUSBY: It came from watching how our readers actually live. They are asset-rich and time-poor. They have a great deal going on and very few free hours, so the last thing they want is to hunt across five different places for the things they care about. So we put it all in one place. The business news they need to stay ahead sits alongside the cars, the watches, the travel and the experiences worth planning a diary around. Both matter to the same person on the same day. Someone might read a piece on market conditions over breakfast and a road test on the flight home, and there is no reason those two things should live in different publications. The other half of it is convenience. Everything is easy to digest and well written, and we make it simple to pick up however you prefer. The website is there when you have five minutes. The digital edition works on any device, so you can read it anywhere. And then there is the print magazine, which I am very proud of. It is a showstopper in its own right. It looks right on a superyacht, in a private jet cabin or on a boardroom table, and people tend to keep hold of it. LPM: Your audience includes business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals. What do you believe they expect from a publication today, and how do you keep the content relevant to their professional and personal interests? AB: They want to hear from their peers. That is the big one. People at this level are far more interested in what another founder or chief executive has learned first-hand than in anyone else’s opinion about it. That is why the interview sits right at the heart of what we do. Somebody has built something impressive, we get them talking properly, and the reader takes away something they can genuinely apply.

Beyond that, they want it to be quick, and they want it to be good. No padding. If a story works in eight hundred words, it does not need two thousand. Keeping it relevant is the enjoyable part of my job. LPM: From your experience working with leading brands and business leaders, what are the biggest mistakes companies make when trying to gain meaningful media exposure, and what would you advise them to do differently? AB: Rather than talk about mistakes, I would rather focus on the right things, which is exactly what we encourage our partners and sponsors to do. The first is to lead with people and ideas. An interview with a founder, or a profile piece on one of the senior team, will do far more for a brand than any amount of noise about the product. Our readers are curious about the people behind a business, and once they warm to those people, they look at the organization.

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That community around the magazine is becoming AS VALUABLE AS THE PAGES.

The second is to use the whole toolkit rather than one part of it. We work with brands across interviews, business leader profiles, editorial, advertorial and display advertising, and the real value comes when those work together. A reader might see a leader profile in one issue, an editorial feature in the next, and a display ad alongside it. That is what good positioning looks like. The third is to think beyond awareness. We supplement all of this with B2B lead generation campaigns, so the exposure turns into actual conversations with the right people. Visibility matters, but visibility that provides real value and tangible results is what makes the difference. LPM: The Executive Magazine was recently recognized in the WLCC Selection: TOP Luxury Media of the World 2026. What does this recognition mean to you and the team, and what do you hope it will bring to the publication? AB: It was a significant moment for us, and I will admit we marked the occasion properly. What made it special is that it came from outside our own market, judged against titles that have been going far longer than we have. Building a reputation among people who already know you is one thing. Being picked out internationally tells you the product stands up anywhere, and that gave everyone here a real lift. It also mattered for the team specifically. A magazine of this quality takes a lot of hard work, and there are plenty of late nights involved in getting an issue right before a print deadline.

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Everyone here cares enormously about the finished product, and it was good to see them get the recognition they deserve. LPM: Looking ahead, what changes do you expect to see across business and luxury media over the next few years, and where would you like The Executive Magazine to be within that landscape? AB: Events are where I see the biggest opportunity, and it is the part I enjoy most. People want to be in the same room again. There is only so much you can build over email, and the relationships that go somewhere tend to start with a handshake and a good conversation. Print will keep getting stronger at this end of the market, which some people find surprising. A beautifully produced magazine in a private jet cabin has your full attention in a way a notification never will. Our copies sit in jets, on yachts, in the players’ lounges at Premiership football clubs and on private islands, and they get read cover to cover because there is nothing competing for the reader’s eye. Beyond that, the plan is growth into the Middle East and the United States. The priority stays the same wherever we go.

Discover The Executive Magazine and exclusive benefits available to WLCC Members in the WLCC Media Hub.

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GLOBAL PROPERTY MEETS IN SHANGHAI Cross-border investment continues to play a defining

role in the luxury property sector, creating demand for international platforms where buyers and developers can meet face to face. From 4 to 6 December 2026, LPS Shanghai returns to the Shanghai Exhibition Center for its 25th edition, bringing global property specialists into direct conversation with the Chinese market. 90 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

The value of an international property fair lies in the conversations it creates between buyers and the people WHO KNOW EACH MARKET FIRST-HAND. A 25TH EDITION IN SHANGHAI LPS Shanghai has spent nearly two decades bringing international property companies to one of Asia’s most important commercial centers. The 2026 edition will once again gather developers, agencies, advisers and buyers at the Shanghai Exhibition Center, with participants representing markets across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the Americas and beyond. Celebrating its 25th edition this year, LPS Shanghai has grown into Asia-Pacific’s largest international luxury real estate exhibition. Over three days, the Shanghai Exhibition Center will host more than 17,300 VIP visitors, alongside 180 exhibitors and 260 official partners from over 50 countries, reflecting the increasingly international nature of the luxury property market. The format is deliberately international. Visitors can move from conversations about established European destinations to newer resort and residential markets in the Gulf and Asia, while exhibitors gain a direct view of the interests and expectations of Chinese buyers. That breadth has made the fair a useful reference point for companies working across borders. A GLOBAL MAP OF INVESTMENT The 2026 exhibitor mix is expected to include property from China, the UAE, the United States, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, the Maldives, Australia, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico and other destinations. The range reflects the increasingly international way in which luxury property is considered. Buyers may be comparing a primary residence with a second home, looking at resort property, considering a long-term investment, or simply trying to understand how different markets are performing. Having specialists from multiple destinations in one place makes those comparisons more immediate and practical.

MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND LUXURY REAL ESTATE Property decisions at this level are rarely made from a brochure alone. They depend on local knowledge, legal and financial context, an understanding of the development itself, and trust in the people involved. LPS Shanghai gives visitors the opportunity to speak directly with developers, agencies and property specialists who work in these markets every day. The properties represented range from city residences and private villas to resort developments and commercial opportunities. A visitor might discuss an apartment in New York, a home in Dubai, a ski property in the Alps or a villa in the Maldives, then compare the practical considerations behind each purchase with experts familiar with the destination.

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FROM DISCOVERY TO CONVERSATION For an international audience, the usefulness of LPS Shanghai is not simply the number of projects on display. It is the chance to understand the people, markets and decisions behind them. Over three days, the exhibition creates a concentrated setting for conversations that would otherwise require multiple trips, introductions and appointments across different countries. That makes the fair relevant not only to active buyers, but also to investors, advisers and luxuryindustry professionals who want a clearer view of where international property demand is moving and which destinations are attracting attention from the Chinese market.

As an official partner of LPS Shanghai 2026, the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce offers its members and partners access to a limited allocation of complimentary invitations, including VIP access for selected guests. To learn more or register your interest, visit the WLCC Events Calendar. 92 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

LPS SHANGHAI BRINGS A WIDE RANGE OF DESTINATIONS INTO ONE ROOM, allowing visitors to compare markets, projects and investment approaches directly.

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TRUST IS THE CURRENCY OF LUXURY MEDIA with MARTIN BÉTANT

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As Co-Founder and Head of Commercial & Partnerships at LUXE.NET, Martin Bétant has spent more than a decade building a digital publication rooted in editorial rigor, discoverability, and trust. He discusses changing online luxury habits, the role of influence, what makes brand partnerships last, and why credibility will matter even more in the years ahead.

LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE: LUXE.NET has become a well-recognized luxury publication in France over the past decade and was recently selected for the WLCC Selection: TOP Luxury Media of the World 2026. Looking back, what were the key decisions that helped establish its reputation and editorial identity? MARTIN BÉTANT: First of all, let me genuinely say thank you for this recognition and for celebrating LUXE.NET as a French-language reference in the world of luxury and art de vivre. It means a great deal to us. You know, in this industry, prestige and rigor are really two sides of the same coin; you cannot claim one without living up to the other. So, from the very beginning, the question we kept asking ourselves was simple: how do we bring real value to the content we put out, rather than just noise? I think that is really where our identity comes from. We have always insisted on carefully crafted articles, pieces that genuinely do justice to the products and the houses we cover, rather than churning out generic coverage. That editorial discipline is one pillar. The other, which people talk about less but which mattered just as much, is that we took search engine visibility seriously very early on. We worked hard, methodically, on our SEO because there is no point writing something excellent if nobody finds it. Put those two things together, depth of content and discoverability, and I think that is really the combination that built our reputation over the years.

LPM: Luxury audiences increasingly discover brands through digital channels rather than traditional media. How have you seen online luxury consumption habits change in recent years, and what do luxury brands need to understand today? MB: Like pretty much every industry, luxury has followed everyone else online. That shift was inevitable, and honestly, it has accelerated faster than most people in this world expected. What is interesting is who is driving it: the audience discovering luxury today is getting younger, and it is an audience that is simply more fluent and more at ease with technology than the generation before it. They do not think of going online as a separate act; it is just how they live. On top of that, there is the smartphone factor, which I really cannot overstate: consumption has become overwhelmingly mobile. If a brand still designs its content or its campaigns primarily for desktop, or with a print-first mindset, it is already speaking the wrong language to this audience. What luxury brands need to understand today is that reaching this new generation is not just a matter of being present online; it is about genuinely adapting the format, the pace, and the tone of what they say to a mobile-first, digitally native reader.

Reaching this new generation is not just a matter of being present online;

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There is no point writing something excellent

IF NOBODY FINDS IT.

LPM: Influencers and digital creators have become an important part of luxury communication. In your view, what distinguishes meaningful influence from short-lived online visibility? MB: In luxury, trust is not a nice-to-have; it is the whole game. When someone is willing to spend serious money on a product, the recognition and the confidence they place in it are not simply important; they are indispensable. And that is precisely the role influence media and influencers play when they do it properly: they act as a trusted bridge between the brand and the audience. Where I would draw the line between meaningful influence and short-lived visibility is exactly there, in that word: trust. Visibility you can buy; trust you have to earn, conversation after conversation, over time. That is really the whole distinction. LPM: As Head of Commercial & Partnerships, you work closely with luxury brands. What qualities do you value most when deciding whether to build a long-term collaboration? MB: For us, a long-term collaboration really rests on three things. Reputation matters enormously. Obviously, we want to align ourselves with houses and brands that hold themselves to a high standard. Product quality matters just as much because our readers can tell the difference between something exceptional and something that is merely marketed as exceptional.

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But honestly, what tips the balance for me is the third element: the nature of the project itself. We are drawn to partners who want to build something complete with us, not a banner and a press release, but a full, qualitative story from A to Z: strong visuals, hands-on testing where it is relevant, and a real experience behind the words. When a brand is willing to invest in that kind of depth alongside us, that is usually the sign of a partnership that is going to last. LPM: Looking ahead, what changes do you expect will have the greatest impact on luxury media over the next five years, and how is LUXE. NET preparing for them? MB: If I had to name the one thing that will shape luxury media over the next five years, it is trust, or rather, the growing scarcity of it. We are living in an era where it is genuinely hard for a reader to know what to believe: there is unverified content everywhere, there are collaborations that are purely paid-for and dressed up as editorial opinion, and readers are getting sharper at spotting the difference. That is actually good news for outlets willing to do the work. On our side, we are preparing for that shift the way we always have: by continuing to produce content that is verified, carefully sourced, and that we ourselves genuinely stand behind. It is not the flashiest strategy, but I am convinced it is the one that holds up over the next five years, and the next ten.

Discover LUXE.NET and its exclusive offer for WLCC members in the WLCC Media Hub.

www.papilloninteriordesigns.com

BRAND SPOTLIGHT

SANTONI’S ONE OF ONE PUTS PERSONALIZATION AT THE CENTER OF LUXURY The Italian Maison is expanding bespoke craftsmanship through made-to-order services, in-store customization, and lifetime care. Luxury is becoming increasingly personal. While craftsmanship remains central to the world’s leading maisons, today’s clients are looking for products that reflect their own identity as much as the brand behind them. For Italian shoemaker Santoni, personalization is now an integral part of its business. Through One of One, the Maison brings together bespoke shoemaking, made-to-order design, boutique customization, and aftercare, giving clients the opportunity to shape products that are uniquely their own. Founded more than 50 years ago, Santoni has built its reputation on traditional Italian craftsmanship. Every pair of shoes is handmade using techniques that have defined the brand for decades. One of One extends that heritage by allowing clients to participate in the design process while preserving the standards for which the Maison is known.

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At a Glance Brand: Santoni Program: One of One Services: Bespoke, Made to Order, Boutique Personalization & Aftercare Lead Time: 12 to 20 weeks, depending on service Digital Launch: Online configurator planned for late 2026 Website: www.santonishoes.com

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E XC LU S I V E I N T E RV I E W

PERSONALIZATION BEYOND THE PURCHASE One of One also includes One Live, an in-store service that allows customers to personalize leather goods with embossed initials or customize Santoni's Carlo and Carla loafers with interchangeable tassels. The experience continues through One Forever, the Maison's aftercare program. Professional polishing, color restoration, and resoling help preserve each pair using Santoni's Blake and Goodyear Welt construction techniques. For luxury brands, aftercare has become an increasingly important part of the customer relationship. Extending the life of a product not only reinforces craftsmanship but also supports a more considered approach to luxury ownership. Rather than introducing another customization service, Santoni is building a long-term relationship with its clients through craftsmanship, personalization, and care. As luxury consumers continue to value individuality alongside quality, services such as One of One show how heritage brands are adapting while remaining true to the skills that define them. CRAFTSMANSHIP WITHOUT COMPROMISE At the center of the offering is One of a Kind, Santoni's bespoke service for men and women. The process begins with a consultation led by a bespoke manager and master artisan. Eight measurements are taken before a handcrafted wooden last is produced exclusively for the client. After two fittings, artisans spend up to 20 weeks completing each pair by hand. For clients who prefer Santoni's established collections, One Yours offers a made-to-order service across a selection of the Maison's signature styles. More than 130 combinations of leather, color, and finish allow each design to be personalized while maintaining Santoni's distinctive aesthetic. The Maison also plans to introduce an online configurator by the end of 2026, extending its made-to-order offering to digital clients.

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MARKET INTELLIGENCE

WHY

ESG REGULATION MATTERS FOR LUXURY BRANDS IN 2026 Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulation is becoming a defining

factor in how luxury businesses operate.

From product design and sourcing to reporting, financing and supply chain management, regulatory expectations are expanding across global markets. The fourth edition of the ESG Policy Guide, published by Positive Luxury in collaboration with Baker McKenzie, outlines the legislative developments that luxury executives should be monitoring throughout 2026.

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MARKET INTELLIGENCE According to the guide, ESG is no longer viewed as a standalone sustainability initiative. Instead, it has become a core business consideration that influences commercial strategy, investment decisions, and long-term competitiveness. New legislation is placing greater emphasis on product durability, supply chain transparency, climate planning, biodiversity protection, responsible labor practices, and credible public reporting. As a result, compliance is increasingly linked to business resilience, investor confidence, and maintaining a competitive position in the global luxury market. One of the report’s strongest themes is the continued expansion of circular economy requirements. Luxury brands are expected to move beyond traditional product lifecycles by designing products that can be repaired, recycled, and traced throughout their journey. The guide highlights the European Union’s upcoming Digital Product Passport requirements alongside broader regulations covering extended producer responsibility, waste reduction, and restrictions on the disposal of unsold products. Rather than focusing solely on regulatory obligations, the report also presents practical examples of how businesses are adapting. Brands including Monica Vinader, Harvey Nichols, ME+EM, and Bamford demonstrate how circularity principles are already being integrated into product development, operations, and customer engagement.

Climate transition is another major focus. The guide notes that investors, regulators, and commercial partners increasingly expect businesses to establish measurable emissions targets supported by credible transition plans. While regulatory approaches differ between regions, the overall direction remains consistent. Luxury companies are expected to demonstrate measurable progress rather than broad sustainability commitments. As Maria Piontkovska, Partner at Baker McKenzie, notes,

“Committing to carbon neutrality positions luxury businesses for long-term success in a market that is increasingly shaped by sustainability.” Beyond environmental considerations, the guide examines growing scrutiny of human rights, forced labor, ESG disclosures, and supply chain governance. It also explores emerging topics including artificial intelligence, sustainability collaboration between competitors, biodiversity protection, and transition finance. Across each area, the emphasis is on improving transparency, strengthening governance, and preparing for regulations that continue to expand across global markets. For luxury executives, the report reinforces that ESG is becoming part of everyday business strategy rather than a separate sustainability initiative. As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve, understanding these developments will be essential for managing risk, maintaining consumer and investor confidence, and protecting long-term brand value. The ESG Policy Guide 2026 serves as a practical reference for executives, sustainability leaders, legal teams, and decision-makers across the luxury sector. Rather than predicting distant trends, it focuses on legislative developments that are already influencing business decisions and offers practical examples of how luxury brands can prepare for an increasingly regulated marketplace.

Read the full report: www.bakermckenzie.com Source: Positive Luxury & Baker McKenzie. ESG Policy Guide: What Sustainability Legislation Means for Luxury Brands. Fourth Edition, March 2026.

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kebbsonandco.co.uk

From

A DAY to A GLOBAL MOVEMENT

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What began as a global day of recognition is evolving into something bigger. As World Luxury Day continues to unite brands, leaders, media, and communities around the world, 2026 marks its next milestone with the launch of the first World Luxury Day Manifesto, a collective publication bringing together the voices influencing the luxury industry. The World Luxury Chamber of Commerce (WLCC) has launched the 2026 World Luxury Day celebration season ahead of World Luxury Day on October 8. At the center of this year’s initiative is a deceptively simple question:

WHAT DOES LUXURY MEAN TODAY? The answer is increasingly difficult to contain within traditional definitions of exclusivity, craftsmanship, or price. Across the luxury industry, professionals are considering the value of exceptional service, personalization, time, experience, heritage, innovation, and human connection alongside the products themselves. World Luxury Day 2026 intends to bring those perspectives together.

A GLOBAL CONVERSATION ABOUT LUXURY

“LUXURY IS ULTIMATELY DEFINED BY THE PEOPLE WHO CREATE IT, DELIVER IT, AND EXPERIENCE IT. WORLD LUXURY DAY GIVES THE GLOBAL LUXURY COMMUNITY AN OPPORTUNITY TO PUT THOSE PERSPECTIVES INTO WORDS AND CONSIDER THE VALUES WE WANT LUXURY TO REPRESENT,” says Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce

WHAT DEFINES LUXURY IN 2026?

Established by WLCC and celebrated annually on October 8, World Luxury Day celebrates the people, excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation that define the global luxury industry.

The Manifesto arrives at an interesting moment for the sector. For professionals working across hospitality, fashion, jewelry, automotive, real estate, travel, beauty, design, and other luxury industries, defining luxury is no longer simply a question of what is rare or expensive. It can also be a question of what cannot easily be replicated.

For 2026, the initiative is expanding that conversation through the World Luxury Day Manifesto, a new publication that will collect perspectives from luxury leaders and professionals around the world.

Is luxury found in craftsmanship and provenance? In privacy and access? In exceptional service? In having more control over one’s time? Or in experiences designed around an individual rather than a mass audience?

Rather than presenting a single institutional definition of luxury, the Manifesto will be created from contributions by people working within the sector. Selected perspectives will appear in the inaugural edition, with contributors recognized as co-authors.

These questions have implications beyond semantics. How an organization defines luxury influences how it develops products, trains teams, communicates with clients, designs experiences, and decides where to invest.

The intention is for the Manifesto to continue with future editions of World Luxury Day, creating a record of how the industry’s understanding of luxury changes over time.

That makes the conversation relevant not only to brand leaders and creative directors, but also to the professionals responsible for sales, marketing, operations, customer experience, design, and strategy.

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BECOME PART OF THE FIRST WORLD LUXURY DAY MANIFESTO

HOW TO PARTICIPATE 1. Share your perspective Publish a post on LinkedIn or Instagram, answering one simple question: What does luxury mean to you? 2. Join the conversation Tag the @WorldLuxuryChamber account and use #WorldLuxuryDay so we can discover your contribution. 3. Invite three voices Nominate three colleagues, industry peers, or leaders whose perspectives deserve to be part of this global conversation, and invite them to continue the chain. Selected contributions will be published in the inaugural World Luxury Day Manifesto, with contributors recognized as co-authors of this landmark publication. Together, we’re creating a collective voice for the global luxury industry.

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Learn more about World Luxury Day at WORLDLUXURYDAY.COM

C ELEB R ATING THOSE BEHIND

Luxury

A GLOBAL TRIBUTE TO EXCELLENCE, CRAFTSMANSHIP & INNOVATION

WORLDLUXURYDAY.COM

OCTOBER 8

I N D U S T RY I N S I G H T S

WHY LUXURY LIVING IS ENTERING A NEW ERA Luxury has traditionally been communicated through scarcity and visibility: a recognised address, a rare object, a private membership or an unmistakable symbol of success. Those markers have not disappeared, but they no longer explain the whole market. Premium products are more accessible, images of exceptional lifestyles circulate instantly, and many once-exclusive experiences can now be bought by a far wider audience. As visible luxury becomes easier to reproduce, affluent consumers are placing greater value on what remains difficult to obtain. 112 LUXURY PEOPLE MAGAZINE | ISSUE 6

OPENING PERSPECTIVE Luxury is becoming less performative and more personal. For affluent consumers, its value increasingly lies in the freedom to shape daily life around their own priorities rather than around public expectations. Adrian Kołodziej Luxury Real Estate & Affluent Consumer Behaviour Expert Founder, Vilea Property Boutique

Time without interruption, control over one’s environment, trusted relationships and the ability to move through life without unnecessary friction are becoming central to the meaning of luxury. The change is particularly visible among clients whose lives are already rich in choice but poor in simplicity. For them, the question is no longer merely whether something is expensive or rare. It is whether it improves the way life is lived. The home sits at the centre of this change because it connects the private, professional and emotional parts of life. It can provide security without isolation, support health without feeling clinical and make demanding routines easier without turning domestic life into a managed performance. The most compelling residences are therefore being judged less as static assets and more as environments that shape behaviour, energy and relationships. This report examines seven forces behind that shift: the changing definition of luxury, the rising value of privacy, the role of emotional architecture, the evolution of quiet luxury, the move from wellness to longevity, the growth of service-led ownership and the effect of AI and intergenerational wealth transfer on the decade ahead. The aim is not to predict a single model of luxury, but to identify the practical signals already changing how affluent consumers choose, design and experience their homes.

Report Highlights • • • • • •

Luxury is shifting from display to personal utility. Privacy is becoming both a spatial and digital asset. Homes are expected to support identity and recovery. Longevity is influencing location as well as design. Service-led ownership is reducing complexity. AI will increase personalisation while making trust and data governance more important.

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THE NEW DEFINITION OF LUXURY Luxury living today is defined less by accumulation than by agency: the ability to decide how time is spent, who gains access to one’s private world and which experiences deserve attention. This does not make craftsmanship, beautiful objects or prestigious places irrelevant. It changes their role. They are valued not simply because they signal wealth, but because they contribute to a life that feels coherent and distinctly one’s own. This is why affluent consumption is becoming more selective. A demanding client may spend generously on travel, design, art or hospitality, yet reject anything that feels generic, intrusive or created mainly for display. The emphasis is moving towards experiences and objects with personal relevance, reliable quality and a sense of continuity. The most persuasive luxury brands are those that understand context rather than simply adding more choice.

Prestige can no longer be created by price and visibility alone. IT MUST BE SUPPORTED BY RELEVANCE.

Real estate makes this shift tangible. A residence is where health, family, work, social life and private identity meet. Buyers are therefore evaluating more than architecture and address. They are asking whether the property protects concentration, allows family members to live at different rhythms and creates a credible sense of retreat. A spectacular home that complicates daily life can feel less luxurious than a quieter property that works exceptionally well. The consequence for the luxury sector is significant: prestige can no longer be created by price and visibility alone. It must be supported by relevance. The strongest products and places will be those that fit naturally into the owner’s life and continue to deliver value after the initial moment of acquisition has passed.

OPENING PERSPECTIVE The greatest luxury is no longer simply what we own, but the degree to which our choices allow us to live with freedom, intention and ease. Adrian Kołodziej

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT HERE

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Luxury Real Estate & Affluent Consumer Behaviour Expert Founder, Vilea Property Boutique

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I N D U S T RY I N S I G H T S

THE LUXURY PEOPLE PODCAST 2026 MID-YEAR REVIEW The Luxury People Podcast (LPP), presented by the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce (WLCC) and hosted by internationally recognized luxury strategist António Paraíso, features conversations with executives, innovators, and business leaders from across the global luxury industry. Covering hospitality, fashion, sustainability, technology, real estate, entrepreneurship, and more, each episode explores the leadership philosophies, business decisions, and personal experiences behind some of the industry’s most respected organizations.

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I N D U S T RY I N S I G H T S

A YEAR OF EXCEPTIONAL CONVERSATIONS Throughout 2026, the Luxury People Podcast welcomed leading executives, founders, and innovators from across the global luxury sector. Featured guests included Iyad Rasbey, Riccardo Pozzoli, Michael Short, Mic Adilardi, Álvaro Núñez Alfaro, Kassie Smith, and Malek Semar, sharing insights across luxury branding, leadership, sustainability, hospitality, technology, real estate, and entrepreneurship. Each conversation offered practical perspectives on the business of luxury and the expectations influencing the sector today. January to July 2026 Performance The Luxury People Podcast continues to expand its international audience, connecting with luxury professionals and enthusiasts across multiple digital platforms. January to July 2026 • 194,099 Total Reach • 177,677 Instagram Reach • 161,321 Instagram Video Views • 10,893 LinkedIn Impressions • 4,530 YouTube Impressions • 137 Spotify Streams & Downloads Source: WLCC internal analytics. These figures reflect the growing appetite for thoughtful conversations that bring together experienced voices from across the global luxury industry.

INDUSTRY LEADERS ON THE LUXURY PEOPLE PODCAST The impact of the Luxury People Podcast is perhaps best reflected by those who have experienced it firsthand. Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, shared: “It was an absolute pleasure to participate in the Luxury People Podcast by the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce. It’s great to see such a global platform bringing together different industry perspectives and driving meaningful dialogue for the luxury community. I genuinely

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enjoyed the conversation with host António Paraíso, whose thoughtful and well-structured approach made the discussion highly relevant to today’s luxury travel landscape. Thank you to WLCC for the kind invitation and for creating such an engaging platform for industry voices.” Likewise, Mic Adilardi, Director of Global Luxury & Lifestyle Sales at IHG Hotels & Resorts (The Americas), commented: “The Luxury People Podcast is an exceptional platform for meaningful, high-level industry dialogue. My experience as a guest was seamless, engaging, and collaborative. The World Luxury Chamber of Commerce has built a brilliant space that successfully bridges the gap between heritage luxury principles and modern commercial innovation.” These testimonials reflect the podcast’s purpose: creating conversations that educate, inspire, and encourage meaningful discussion across the global luxury community.

MORE THAN A PODCAST The Luxury People Podcast is more than a series of interviews. It is an educational platform that connects industries, cultures, and ideas. Every episode offers an opportunity to discover how successful leaders think, make decisions, overcome challenges, and build brands that stand the test of time. Beyond discussing current industry developments, the conversations reveal the human stories behind successful businesses and the people leading them. As the podcast continues to grow, its purpose remains the same: to educate, inspire, and connect the global luxury community through meaningful conversations.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION Whether you are a luxury executive, entrepreneur, brand leader, or simply passionate about excellence, the Luxury People Podcast offers valuable perspectives from some of the industry’s most respected voices. Hear directly from leaders across the global luxury industry. Watch the latest episodes on YouTube or listen on Spotify, and catch up on conversations you may have missed.

Watch on YouTube | Listen on Spotify

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For more information, please email us at ushotelandspa@loccitane.com or visit hospitality.loccitane.com