[Photo/WeChat account: jaxwzx]

Shanghai has emerged as the world's top destination for brand launches, with an average of three brands' first store opening every day. This trend is widely said to underscore the city's growing status as an international shopping hub.

From May 2018 to December 2023, Shanghai hosted more than 4,500 brand launch events, with 5,840 new first store openings, an average of 2.8 per day. The city boasts more than 80 Asian and global first stores, leading the country in both the amount and quality of brands.

The "First in Shanghai" global promotion event was inaugurated at Zhangyuan in Jing’an district. This initiative marks a significant milestone in Shanghai's debut economy.

Shanghai ranks second in the world in terms of retailer density, with 98 percent coverage of top international brands. Zhu Min, director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, has announced plans to support the opening of high-profile first stores and internationally influential debut events in the city.

Shanghai has launched a series of events under the "First in Shanghai" banner since March, attracting high-profile brands such as L'Oréal, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Apple, Loewe and Starbucks. These events have set a new historical high in terms of scale and quality for the city's premier economy.

The "First in Shanghai" logo, composed of nine magnolia petals, was unveiled during the ceremony, symbolizing Shanghai's vision of innovation and prosperity.

Highlights of Shanghai's debut economy:

Balenciaga's first global show

Balenciaga, the esteemed French luxury brand, will hold its first global launch show in Shanghai on May 30. The event will be the brand's first major show in 2025 and its debut show in Asia, signifying the brand's deep respect for the Chinese market. Cai Jinqing, president of Kering Greater China, hopes the show will showcase China's present and future through the dynamic lens of Shanghai.

Hermès' new project

Hermès is preparing a new project in the Xuhui Riverside area, which aims to rival its iconic stores in cities such as Paris, France; New York, United States; and Tokyo, Japan. The three Hermès stores in Shanghai are among the top 10 in global sales.

Technology and luxury brands spotlight Shanghai

Apple's largest flagship store on the Chinese mainland opened in Jing'an Temple Square with CEO Tim Cook in attendance. Starbucks unveiled "Oleato", a groundbreaking coffee experience, with founder Howard Schultz in attendance at the Shanghai Roastery. Tiffany & Co. showcased the Jean Schlumberger jewelry collection in Shanghai's West Bund, highlighting the brand's exceptional craftsmanship and heritage.

Anta's zero-carbon concept store

Anta Sports will open its first sustainable concept store on Wukang Road in Shanghai on April 22, Earth Day. Named "Zero-carbon Mission Store", it represents Anta's commitment to sustainability and will be the first carbon-neutral certified store in China's footwear and apparel industry.