Executive Summary

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” looks at how Costco and Aldi are taking different approaches to entering China.

In the news this week:

• Burberry has partnered with Apple Pay to launch “R Message,” a personalized in-app chat service available to high-spending customers by invitation only.
• Chinese low-cost retailer Miniso will add four Miniso Factory concept outlets to the 150 stores the company already operates in Mexico and expand its catalog from 10 to 14 product categories.
• French workwear brand Danton is set to open its first independent store in Tokyo. The new store will offer a wide range of casual wear a well as workwear.