Business Of Luxury Summit

In the early spring of 2019, few could have imagined that the £230bn luxury goods sector would not only weather the Covid-19 pandemic with little long-term damage, but emerge from it stronger - and trading at higher valuations - than ever before. But the recovery has not been equal. It is the biggest, most globally recognised brands that are increasing market share, having pivoted swiftly to court local and online customers as tourism flows have evaporated in many parts of the world, and reaping the rewards of sooner-than-expected spending recoveries in China, Korea and the US. With more interactions shifting to social media, brands are also learning to connect with customers who are increasingly aligning their spending with their social and political values, and concerns about climate change. Against this tumultuous backdrop, the 18th annual Financial Times Business of Luxury Summit will return to a physical format in May in Fairmont Windsor Park, a beautiful hotel set in the English countryside where history and iconic elegance merge to create an outstanding destination. Chaired by the FT’s editor, Roula Khalaf, and the FT’s fashion editor, Lauren Indvik, we’ll gather top minds to discuss and debate the sector’s most pressing questions. How have consumer mindsets and spending patterns changed over the past two years? What does responsible leadership look like in a climate crisis, and what will greater environmental regulation mean for business? How can smaller, independent brands compete with larger players? And how will the next generation of talent transform the sector?