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142 articles
The Hotel Brand Pyramid – From Budget to Luxury Rankings
The SmartZup Hotel Brand Pyramid ranks hotel brands from budget chains to luxury and palace hotels, and explains why star ratings measure amenities, not luxury.
The Luxury Watch Brands Pyramid: Who Tops the Hierarchy in 2024
If you’re seeking a practical guide to understand luxury watch brands before making your purchase, our luxury watch brands pyramid is exactly what you need.
Automotive Brand Pyramid: A New Hierarchy for Car Brands
If you’re looking for a practical guide to gauge where your favorite car brand is placed before you are thinking of a new car, look no further than our Pyramid of Car Brands.
The Jewelry Brands Pyramid: A New Hierarchy for Jewelry Brands
The SmartZup Jewelry Brands Pyramid ranks jewelry brands by tier, from mass-market costume jewelry and designer pieces to fine jewelry and haute joaillerie.
The Fashion Brands Pyramid: A New Hierarchy for Fashion Brands
We describe the positioning of fashion brands and retailers around the world into a simple hierarchy.
Luxury Furniture Hierarchy: The Furniture Brands Pyramid
The SmartZup Furniture Brand Pyramid ranks furniture brands and retailers by tier, from mass-market and mid-range to high-end, ultra luxury and bespoke makers.
The Shoe Brands Pyramid: A New Hierarchy For Designer Shoe Brands
The SmartZup Shoe Brand Pyramid maps the footwear hierarchy, from fast fashion and mass-market brands to luxury fashion houses and master bespoke shoemakers.
The EV Car Brands Pyramid: A New Hierarchy for EV Automotive Brands in 2024
The SmartZup EV Car Brands Pyramid ranks all-electric car brands for 2024, explains the growth of EVs and profiles top hypercars such as the Rimac Nevera.
The Pyramid of Chocolate Brands
An overview of global chocolate brands. We provide a clear picture based on quality, price and uniqueness.
The Luxury Sunglasses Brands Pyramid: Who Tops the Hierarchy in 2024
Sunglasses are the ultimate summer accessory, enhancing your style while providing eye protection. Whether lounging on a sandy beach with chic aviators or attending a lively summer festival with oversized, mirrored frames, they add a touch of elegance and confidence.
Hilton Hotels And Resorts: A Century of Hospitality and Global Prestige
The history of Hilton Hotels, from Conrad Hilton’s 1919 Mobley Hotel in Texas to a global hospitality group, with its valuation, ownership and finest resorts.
Car Renting Simplified: The Car Model Pyramid
Have you ever felt lost when ordering a rental car, unsure about the model, brand, and price? Navigating the myriad of options can be overwhelming.
The Airline Brands Pyramid: A New Hierarchy of Airline Carriers
Review of the airline industry and airline brands.
The Pyramid of Supermarket Brands
If you’re looking for a practical guide to gauge where your (local) or favourite supermarket brand is placed before your next shop, look no further than our Pyramid of Supermarket Brands.
Understanding Supreme Luxury Fashion Brands
A closer look at the supreme luxury fashion tier of the SmartZup pyramid: Chanel, Hermès, Dior and Louis Vuitton, and the factors that put them at the top.
The Sports Events Pyramid – The Top Sports Events in the World in 2024 and Beyond
This summer, the world unites in a thrilling celebration of sports. From the heart-pounding Tour de France to the electrifying Summer Olympics, fans and athletes from every corner of the globe come together for unforgettable action.
The Restaurant Brands Pyramid: Who Tops the Hierarchy in 2025
Ever wondered where your favorite restaurant chain sits in the grand hierarchy of dining? Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, the SmartZup – Restaurant Brand Pyramid is your ultimate guide to navigating the world of food and hospitality.
Credit card payment in Dutch supermarkets not everywhere excepted
Although credit cards are increasing in popularity in the Netherlands, most Dutch people still pay with their debit card or cash. During Corona, we have seen a dramatic increase in contactless payments through these debit cards.
7 Ultimate Lifestyle Brands for Introverts
In a world that always seems to be at maximum volume, introverts find sanctuary in life’s quiet corners. So, if cozy evenings at home and thoughtful reflections are your kind of vibe, we’ve meticulously curated a list of brands that should resonate with your frequency. 1.
The Luxury Handbag Pyramid: The Hierarchy of Luxury Bags in 2024
The SmartZup Luxury Handbag Pyramid ranks the most expensive handbags of 2024, from Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags to the Parva Mea, priced at $7 million.
10 Shocking Things You Didn’t Know About FedEx
Is there anything more exciting than seeing a FedEx van outside your house pulling up to deliver your package? Okay, there probably is, but getting a FedEx delivery is definitely up there with the best. Delivery drivers are this generation’s unsung heroes.
Why Is France the Leading Country in Luxury Fashion Brands?
How cities become destination brands, from 2024’s trending summer destinations to the influence of digital platforms and AI on travel choices and overtourism.
Cereal Psychology: What Your Breakfast Cereal Says About You
When you stare into a bowl of morning cereal, do you see only a crunchy, flaky mound of processed grains and tasty goodness waiting to be devoured… or do you recognize a more deep-down reflection of yourself?
The Toys and Games Brand Pyramid: A Hierarchy of Toy and Game Brands
The SmartZup Toys and Games Brands Pyramid ranks toy and game brands by tier and suggests toys for every age, from infants and toddlers to teenagers and adults.
The Fashion Brands Sale Calendar: Must-Know Dates for Leading Brands in 2024
Explore the diverse world of global retail brands fashion sales. Uncover how local holidays and cultural events shape shopping trends in different regions. Dive into Part 1 of our comprehensive guide to not miss any deal!
The Coffee Brands Pyramid: Who Tops the Hierarchy in 2024
In the world of coffee, every sip tells a story. From the morning rush of instant coffee to the immersive ambiance of a grand café, each cup offers a myriad of experiences shaped by taste, tradition, and the times we live in.
6 Zombie Brands that Came Back from the Dead
Picture this: a graveyard filled with faded logos and forgotten slogans. A place where brands go to die, their once-shining glory reduced to mere memories.
Spotlight On: Pull&Bear
Pull&Bear is a Spanish fashion brand and a go-to destination for young, trend-savvy folks who crave the perfect blend of casual and contemporary styles. The brand is popular largely due to its affordable yet fashionable offerings that cater to a diverse range of tastes and personalities.
The Ultimate Gifts Pyramid for Him
The SmartZup Men’s Gift Pyramid offers gift ideas for him by price tier, from under $25 upward, for holidays, birthdays, Father’s Day or any other occasion.
Exploring Family-Friendly Korean Car Brands: 2024 Models and Features
A guide to 2024 family-friendly SUVs from Korean car brands Kia, Hyundai and Genesis, covering seating, space, safety features and U.S. starting prices.
From Ownership to Identity: How Brands Shape Experiences and Transform Us
How brands are moving from selling products to staging experiences and personal transformation, with examples from LVMH, carmakers, consumer brands and hotels.
Bvlgari: The Quintessence of Italian Excellence
Bvlgari, elegantly stylized as BVLGARI, stands as an Italian pinnacle of perfection and luxury, revered for its exquisite high fine jewelry, avant-garde timepieces, sophisticated fragrances, fine accessories, and opulent leather goods— not to mention its prestigious hospitality ventures.
The Enduring Value of Classic Luxury Products
What makes a classic luxury product, why luxury houses keep their icons, examples that have stood the test of time, and whether classic pieces grow in value.
Spotlight On: Massimo Dutti
Welcome to the enchanting world of Massimo Dutti. In a world where fashion trends are fleeting, Massimo Dutti has etched its name as a symbol of timeless sophistication and modern elegance.
Spotlight On: The Oetker Hotel Collection (OHC)
Is that the Oetker brand that is into baking powder and cakes? Close.
Hermès: The World’s Most Exclusive Fashion Luxury Brand?
Should Hermès occupy a cherished place in your personal pantheon of luxury, this piece was crafted with discerning connoisseurs like you in mind.
Why Did Luxury Fashion Brands Expand To Beauty?
Why luxury fashion brands expanded into beauty, from Chanel No. 5 in 1921 and Chanel makeup in 1924 to the brand appeal, margins and loyalty that beauty brings.
Quiet Fashion Luxury, The Whispering Brands
Everybody loves fashion.
Spotlight On: Sephora
Every beauty junkie knows — and loves — Sephora. The French brand, often regarded as a trailblazer in the beauty industry, has established itself as the ultimate destination for makeup and skincare lovers.
Spotlight On: PEPSI
Pepsi, is the eternal second banana to Coca-Cola right? Oh boy, are you wrong! The history of the brand has many surprising milestones and has surpassed its historical nemesis in many ways.
Why Are German Christmas Markets So Popular?
Why German Christmas markets are so popular: their history since Dresden’s 1434 Striezelmarkt, visitor numbers, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt and festive food.
2024’s Top 10 Safe Budget-Friendly Cars
The top 10 safe, budget-friendly cars of 2024 based on Kelley Blue Book and Yahoo Finance, from the Toyota Prius and Mazda 3 to midsize cars and family SUVs.
Spotlight On: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM)
Spotlight on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) KLM exemplifies various aspects of Dutch culture, highlighting both admirable qualities and some “unique traits”.
Spotlight On: Ben & Jerry’s
There’s a huge difference between getting “ice cream” and getting Ben & Jerry’s. When you think of ice cream, you might think of more simple strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate flavors.
Unlocking Brand Loyalty Through the Power of Friendship
Why some brands and experiences feel like a best friend, and how brands could build deeper loyalty by recognizing the passionate customers who love them.
Spotlight On: Budweiser
“The King of Beers” or “The King of Stealing the Czechs’ Ideas?” Although Budweiser has a past mired in trademark and commercial disputes, they prove that quality rises to the top. Bud started in 1876 with German-born Adolphus Busch and his friend Carl Conrad.
The Convertible Luxury Car Brands Pyramid
SmartZup’s Convertible Luxury Car Brands Pyramid ranks 2024 cabrio models by price, from entry-level convertibles under $50,000 to ultra luxury over $1 million.
Casio: The Symbol of Innovation and Resilience
Casio’s story from its 1946 founding in Tokyo by Tadao Kashio to its first compact electric calculator, digital watches, musical instruments and retro appeal.
Cartier – That Endless Love Story
A personal story of a family’s Cartier Trinity ring and the history of the French jeweler, from Louis-François Cartier’s 1847 Paris workshop to global icon.
Spotlight On: THE CRITERION COLLECTION
The Criterion Collection is more than just a niche blu ray label. It is the standard by which we value movies released on discs. From their early Laserdisc years to their current 4K format, Criterion invented what became known as the special edition.
Discover the Best German Car Brands for Families: Top Choices Revealed
Comparing German family cars from Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi and Porsche, from estate wagons to SUVs, with a 2024 price comparison of 18 models.
Christian Dior: The Most Popular Handbags
Christian Dior’s most popular handbags, from the Lady Dior made famous by Princess Diana to the Saddle Bag, Book Tote and 30 Montaigne, with prices in France.
Christmas in Amsterdam: A Festive Wonderland
Christmas in Amsterdam: Dutch traditions such as Sinterklaas, must-visit Christmas markets, festive food and drinks, and the city’s Christmas lighting show.
Spotlight On: COCA-COLA
With its products sold in more than 200 countries, and a global consumption rate of millions of units per day, Coca-Cola is considered the largest beverage company in the world. But is the red label with the swirly white letters simply the world’s greatest brand?
Do You Know Your Favorite Brand Has A Personality?
Coca-Cola or Pepsi? Explore how the brands you choose reflect a “we” or “I” cultural identity, from Coca-Cola’s togetherness to Pepsi’s individualism.
Customer Service Is Getting Worse – And So Are Customers – Do You Agree?
A very interesting yet debatable insight published by the Economist in September 2023, focusing the spotlight on Customer Service since the start of the pandemic, and the deterioration of this sector since. Rare is the company today that does not “claim” to be customer centric.
8 Times Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Helped Make the World a Better Place
Eight moments of Ben & Jerry’s activism, from Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ support to climate campaigns, showing how the ice cream brand backs social causes.
Spotlight On: Berluti
He stepped confidently onto the polished marble floors, the light reflecting off his shiny distinct blue Berluti Oxford shoes with each confident stride. The shoes radiated an otherworldly glow, catching the attention of passersby as he glided through the crowd with effortless poise and style.
Spotlight On: Cole Haan
Cole Haan is an American lifestyle brand that specializes in footwear, accessories, and outerwear. Founded in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan, the brand focuses on high-quality men’s shoes.
5 Ways The Ordinary Changed The Skincare Game
The Ordinary’s best-selling product, a face serum combining zinc and niacinamide, cost $5.90 when it first launched. Products from other brands with the same formulation can cost over $100. When skincare brand The Ordinary launched back in 2016, it was an instant hit.
Spotlight On: McDonald’s
McDonald’s is not just a fast food chain, it’s an American icon as recognizable as the stars and stripes. As the world’s largest fast-food restaurant chain, the golden arches represent one of the most beloved and valuable brands in history.
Spotlight On: NESCAFÉ
Since 1938 Nescafé has been a trusted brand that has been a staple in every home. Born from the necessity to deal with the Brazilian coffee surplus, the Swiss company revolutionized the world by creating a magic formula for instant coffee!
Spotlight On: Nike
I imagine befuddled 25th century anthropologists looking back on our era and naively asking themselves, “How the hell did a sneaker company become the most valuable apparel brand in the world?” (according to Forbes 2022).
Spotlight On: Loro Piana
If you know you know. Understated or discreet luxury is a growing fashion trend for many of us. For others, it has always been there. While bespoke suits and custom-made clothing will always be a hallmark of luxury fashion, the trend towards discreet, logo-less clothing is gaining momentum.
Do You Identify With Your Favourite Brands?
From the start of the SmartZup journey, we decided to develop a branddirectory so our audience could scroll and find their favourite brands, confirmingtheir passion, and love and discover new brands.
Spotlight On: ZARA
The history of Zara is a fascinating one, and it closely resembles the Spanish version of the American dream Amidst a long and terrible dictatorship in Spain, a very young Amancio Ortega entered the business of tailoring and fashion, moving quickly upwards in the hierarchy in his teenage years.
Spotlight On: Ritter Sport
Once upon a cocoa-infused time in Stuttgart, Germany, a chocolaty sensation burst onto the scene like a flavor tornado. Ritter Sport, the quirky square-shaped chocolate wizard, emerged from the whimsical minds of Stuttgart, Germany.
Bringing Joy to All: The Power of the Jester
You might not be conscious of it, but we humans are fools. Fortunately, there are two kinds of fools, one fool that says: “This is old, therefore it is good”, and the other fool that says: “This is new, therefore it is better” (William Ralph Inge).
Luxury Hospitality Defined: My Cherished Memories with Four Seasons Hotels
Review of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts brand.
Spotlight On: Loewe
Loewe, which means “lion” in German, has shed its conservative image and has made a resurgence as a dynamic and modern luxury brand in the last decade. This can be attributed to the appointment of Jonathan Anderson as the main Designer and Creative Director in 2013.
Spotlight On: JEEP
The legend began in 1941. World War II was just beginning, and the United States Army had requested a vehicle that was small but mighty. Its purposes were for general use, but four-wheel drive and cross-country capabilities were a priority. It also had to be able to carry a small machine gun.
Spotlight On: ZOOM
You know that feeling when you have to go to a meeting, but you just can’t bear to put on your pants? Or leave the house in general? Well, thanks to Zoom, you don’t have to!
Spotlight On: Bershka
In a world where fashion trends shift at lightning speed, Bershka is a beacon of bold, daring, and eclectic style. This Spanish fashion brand has grown rapidly targeting young, style-conscious individuals who crave adventure and self-expression in their wardrobes.
Spotlight On: Brunello Cucinelli
In 2007, while attending a conference in Cannes, my luggage got misplaced by the airline during a layover in Paris. Consequently, I found myself needing to purchase a new set of clothes for the next three days.
Spotlight On: Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts (EA) was born in 1982, a time when the world was still using landlines and playing games on computers with less processing power than a calculator. But EA persevered and started making games for those ancient devices, paving the way for the digital world we know today.
Spotlight On: Glad
I wish for the reader to imagine a world where leftovers roamed free, and spills dominated the vast clean surfaces of tables and counters. Bone chilling indeed. Luckily, we live in a world with a heroic company called Glad who emerged to help us maintain cleanliness for our food in our everyday.
SPOTLIGHT ON: H&M
Whatever age you are, whatever gender you are, wherever on the planet you are, if you’re into fashion and always want to look current with the latest trends, you have to love H&M (Hennes & Mauritz).
Spotlight On: HEINEKEN
The green bottled beer made in the orange country of Van Gogh, tulips and windmills has been part of our lives, parties, and sporting events for more than 150 years.
Spotlight On: Hublot
A “porthole” is Hublot in French which is a nod to the brand’s distinctive watch face design.
Spotlight On: American Express
American Express occupies its own swanky niche in the highly competitive credit card market. Unlike some of its rivals, who focus on widespread acceptance and low fees, the company has always emphasized premium services and benefits for its customers.
Spotlight On: Tudor Watches
Spotlight on Tudor Watches We love the Tudor period, it was the Golden Age of the Jesters in Tudor England (1485-1603).
Spotlight On: Valve
Valve, the gaming company, not a pipe valve, has been around since 1996, created by Gabe Newell and Mike Harrington followed their ambition and the growing market of entertainment on console devices. Valve’s first game was called “Half-Life,” and it was a huge hit.
Fiat Follies: the Italian Automobile Soap Opera You Didn’t Know You Wanted to Hear
If I asked you to name an iconic Italian redemption story, I’m sure many of you would start quoting me lines from “The Godfather.” To which I would reply, in my best Marlon Brando impersonation, “I have a sentimental weakness for my readers and I like to spoil them, as you can see.” (Yes, that
From Fries to Personality: What Your Brand Choice Says About You
McDonald’s or Burger King? Discover what your fast-food brand choice says about your personality and whether it reflects a “we” or an “I” mentality.
The Main Supermarkets in Amsterdam
In the Netherlands, several supermarket chains provide a wide range of branded and white-label products both in the high-end and discount categories. Most supermarkets publish through their weekly advertising leaflets discounts and offers.
Spotlight On: Albert Heijn – The Dutch Retail Giant
I am a fan of the Albert Heijn supermarket, not because of the service, the pricing (relatively expensive compared to other local Dutch supermarkets), or the products, no it is the company’s place in my memories.
Spotlight On: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
There are only a handful hotel brands that provide you with an experience that might result in considering this place your home away from home. Few companies are as focused on the customer experience than Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and their ability to deliver most of the time is remarkable.
The Global Fashion Sale Calendar – Official Sale Dates in 2024
Explore the diverse world of global retail fashion sales. Uncover how local holidays and cultural events shape shopping trends in different regions. Dive into Part 1 of our comprehensive guide to not miss any deal!
6 Historical Figures Discuss Their Most Essential Household Brands
When it comes to brand advocacy, it’s amusing that companies fall over themselves trying to enlist the latest A-list celebrities and influencers-du-jour when literally the greatest, most famous figures from history are waiting in the wings, eager to promote your product or provide expert…
How Gucci Designer Sneakers Became My Medical Miracle
A personal story of how Gucci Ace sneakers helped after a foot injury, plus the design, popularity, pricing and limited editions of Gucci’s top-selling sneaker.
Spotlight On: KFC
Colonel of Truth: An Unscientific Ranking of Every KFC Colonel, from Mild to Nashville Hot Where would KFC be without the indelible image and persona of Colonel Sanders?
Two Major Sports Events That Shaped Europe’s Summer 2024
How UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games shaped Europe’s summer, with record attendance, fan zones and a boost for local hospitality.
Kinder Chocolate: The Perfect Surprise and Sweet Treats for Every Celebration
The Kinder chocolate story, from Michele Ferrero’s 1968 launch in Alba, Italy, and the 1974 Kinder Surprise egg to Kinder treats for festive celebrations.
Lamborghini: A Legacy of Speed, Luxury, and Innovation
The story of Lamborghini, from Ferruccio Lamborghini’s tractor company and his famous dispute with Enzo Ferrari to the supercar brand’s sales growth and facts.
Spotlight On: Wild Deodorant
For years, the deodorant industry remained unchanged. Every store’s deodorant aisle looked pretty much identical, with just a few brands offering very similar products — all of which were packaged up in single-use plastic containers. Until Wild came along.
Haute Couture on The Road: The Iconic World of Limousines
The history of the limousine, from its roots in France’s Limousin region to today’s stretch limos, with the dominant brands, common uses, pricing and features.
LVMH: The Rise of the Luxury Empire
LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the preeminent global luxury goods conglomerate, disclosed a revenue of €20.7 billion for the initial quarter of 2024, achieving an organic growth rate of 3%.
Madrid: Top Attractions, Dining, and Cost of Living
A guide to Madrid covering its history, population, climate, food, top attractions, cost of living and universities, based on a family visit to the city.
Medusa’s Dynasty: Versace from Gianni to Donatella
The story of Versace, founded by Gianni Versace in Milan in 1978 and led by Donatella since 1997, with its signature style, popular products and sub-brands.
Mercedes G-Class: The Definition of Adventure and Elegance
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, built in Graz, Austria, since 1979: its military origins, off-road features, models and starting prices, and its celebrity fans.
How will Millennials and Gen Z reshape retail
Millennials followed by Generation Z stand at the precipice of wielding substantial influence within the retail sector, collectively constituting over 40% of the US population.
Must-Have Luxury Fashion Below $500
A list of 40 must-have luxury fashion gift ideas under $500 from renowned brands, with tips on finding affordable luxury for the holidays or self-pampering.
Spotlight On: Nestle
We live in a time where food scarcity is not an issue anymore, but when Nestle was born in 1866 that was not the case and Nestle’s Farine Lactee, infant formula, was a necessity for Europe and the rest of the world.
The Most Trusted Pet Food Brands for Quality and Nutrition
A guide to the most trusted pet food brands, such as Hill’s Science Diet, chosen for quality ingredients and nutrition, plus key steps for new pet owners.
The New Era of AI FASHION
How AI is changing the fashion industry, from the first AI Fashion Week in New York in 2023 to AI fashion models, the brands involved and the pros and cons.
Spotlight On: Oxo
In a battle between function and aesthetics for the kitchen, it always seemed function would dominate. What if the power balance were to change? Well in 1990, Sam Farber, a man with a knack for making everyday objects extraordinary, founded Oxo.
10 Reasons Patagonia Is the Hero Brand the Planet Deserves
Patagonia isn’t a sustainable brand. At least, that’s the message they want to get across.
E-commerce Fashion Brands Sale Calendar: Key Shopping Dates in 2024
Explore the diverse world of global e-commerce platforms fashion sales.
Prada: The Italian Luxury Fashion House of Modern Innovation
Prada’s story from Mario Prada’s 1913 Milan leather shop to Miuccia Prada’s nylon backpack and global success, with its products, finances and pop culture.
Understanding the Global Variations in a Product Pricing and Quality
Have you ever found yourself purchasing the same product in different countries, only to be surprised by significant variations in taste, components, and price? It’s a common phenomenon that can leave consumers perplexed.
Spotlight On: Yahoo!
I have to admit, I get some strange looks when I give out my email address. The underscore doesn’t help but it’s the fact that my email provider is Yahoo that raises the most eyebrows. From comments like “who still uses Yahoo?” to simply “ya-whoooo?”, I’ve heard them all. But you know what?
Rolex: A Timeless Icon of Luxury and Investment
Rolex explained: its founding by Hans Wilsdorf, ownership by a private foundation, popular models and prices, investment value and where to buy second-hand.
Why would anyone pay to get purposely insulted in a restaurant – Ruditainment?
Customers nowadays are increasingly inclined to carefully peruse rating and reviews before selecting a restaurant for their dining experience or opt for establishments where they’ve had positive past experiences, to avoid potential disruptions to their evening plans.
Seiko: From Humble Beginning to Global Innovations
The Seiko watches story began in 1881, when Kintaro Hattori, a 21-year-old entrepreneur, opened a small watch and clock repair shop in central Tokyo’s Ginza district. His aim was to bring precision timekeeping to a rapidly modernizing Japan.
Spotlight on: Ferrari
Spotlight on Ferrari: the Maranello sports car maker founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1939, its racing history, brand value and the story of its prancing horse logo.
Spotlight on: Delsey
Spotlight on Delsey: a personal review of the luggage brand, whose suitcases offer TSA-approved locks, spinner wheels and expandable zippers for $70 to $300.
The Power of Simplicity: Brands That Master It
How brands such as Apple use minimalist design, a single product focus and clear instructions to stand out, and why simplicity builds lasting customer loyalty.
Spotlight on – Converse
Spotlight on Converse: from its 1908 founding and the Chuck Taylor All-Star to bankruptcy, the 2003 Nike takeover and its links with music, art and fashion.
Spotlight on: Tesla
Spotlight on Tesla: how the EV maker founded in 2003 grew from the Roadster to the Model S, X, 3 and Y, plus its Gigafactories, market value and energy storage.
Spotlight On: Tiffany
Spotlight on Tiffany & Co.: the 1837 jeweler’s iconic designs, why its jewelry is so expensive, its acquisition by LVMH and its famous collectors and stores.
Step into Luxury: Christian Louboutin’s Iconic Men’s Footwear
Christian Louboutin’s men’s footwear, from the designer’s 1991 Paris salon and the iconic red sole to his high-top sneakers, espadrilles and signature features.
I Survived 93 Days on a Desert Island with Only My Wits and an Endless Supply of Lindt Excellence Dark 90% Cocoa
A humorous, fictional desert island survival diary of a food critic stranded for 93 days with nothing but his wits and Lindt Excellence Dark 90% Cocoa bars.
Spotlight On: Nespresso
As a coffee lover, I’ve always appreciated the ritual of brewing a perfect cup of coffee. And when I discovered Nespresso, it was like the coffee gods had answered my prayers.
Spotlight On: 7-Eleven
Once upon a time in 1927, ‘Southland Ice Company’ noticed that people were still hungry after buying their ice, so they decided to sell milk, eggs, and bread too. Fast forward to 1946 when they changed the name to “7-Eleven” because they were open from 7am to 11pm.
Top Japanese Family Cars of 2024: Your Complete Guide to Models and Pricing
A guide to 2024 family-friendly Japanese cars from Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Mazda and Honda, comparing sedans, SUVs and minivans on safety, space and price.
Tony’s Chocolonely – The Dutch Premium Chocolate Brand
How Tony’s Chocolonely became a leading Dutch premium chocolate brand, from Teun van de Keuken’s campaign against slavery in cocoa to its range of bars.
Three-Star Michelin Icons: Restaurants Holding Elite Status in 2024
We love restaurant ranking tables to see who is on top. In the world of haute cuisine, accolades like the Michelin stars and the World’s 50 Best Restaurants ranking are often seen as the ultimate testament to a restaurant’s quality.
The World’s Top 100 Attractions – The Tourism Attractions Pyramid
The SmartZup Tourism Attractions Pyramid ranks the world’s top 100 attractions, from natural wonders and landmarks to theme parks, museums and gardens.
The Top 40 Most Expensive Handbags in the World as of 2024
SmartZup’s ranking of the 40 most expensive handbags in the world as of 2024, from Hermès and Chanel to rare bags crafted from the most exotic materials.
Top Tourist Destinations by Arrivals: The Global Tourism Pyramid
The world’s top tourist destinations by international arrivals, led by France, Spain and the United States, and what draws millions of visitors to each country.
The Ultimate Gifts Pyramid For Her
The SmartZup Women’s Gift Pyramid offers gift ideas for her by price tier, from under $25 upward, for the holidays, birthdays, Women’s Day or any occasion.
The Ultimate Guide to Swatch Watches: Style Meets Affordability
A guide to Swatch, the Swiss watch brand founded in 1983 in answer to the quartz crisis, covering its collections, the MoonSwatch with Omega and its appeal.
Spotlight On: Jack Daniel’s
Jack Daniel’s is a brand of Tennessee whiskey and the top-selling American whiskey in the world. It is produced in Lynchburg, Tennessee, by the Jack Daniel Distillery, which has been owned by the Brown-Forman Corporation since 1956.
Spotlight On: Mitsubishi Pencil
Listen to this legend, friend, and be awed! Once upon a time, a group of Japanese pencil aficionados from the realms of automobiles and writing instruments joined forces to embark on a quest to conquer the world of stationery in 1887 and create what would become the Mitsubishi Pencil.
Spotlight On: Chanel
Chanel, the epitome of elegance and sophistication, is revered for its classic designs, luxurious materials, and flawless craftsmanship.
Beware! 5 stars reviews are sometimes a scam!?
Amazon’s recent action to remove around 20,000 product reviews, generated by nine of the top 10 reviewers in the UK, follows an investigation by The Financial Times published in September 2020.
Spotlight On: Urban Outfitters
We’ve all been there — lurking in the mall with a crisp $20 bill your mum gave you, looking for somewhere to pick up some new threads. And more often than not (for me at least!), that somewhere was Urban Outfitters.
Why I Madly Fell In Love With Versailles
A personal journey to the Palace of Versailles, exploring Louis XIV’s vision, the Hall of Mirrors, court life, fashion and perfume in the Sun King’s palace.
Walmart: The Success Strategy of an American Retail Brand
How Walmart grew from Sam Walton’s 1962 store in Rogers, Arkansas, into a retail giant, with its low-price strategy, how it makes money and key facts.
Van Cleef & Arpels: The Art of Perfection
Van Cleef & Arpels, from the 1895 union of Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels to its Place Vendôme boutique, iconic creations and lasting exclusivity.
Why Luxury Brands Captivate Us: A Deep Dive Into Consumers Behavior
What drives customers to wait in line for hours to gain entry to their favorite luxury brand store? Who can truly resist the allure of luxury, particularly when it comes to high-end fashion?
Yves Saint Laurent: A Brand That Dressed Revolution
It is fascinating how our perception of a brand evolves once we understand the story behind it.