The House of Suntory has reintroduced Hibiki 12 Years Old Travel Exclusive Series to India’s global travel retail channel, marking the return of the celebrated expression to duty-free shelves after an absence of more than a decade.  

For the first time in 11 years, travellers passing through Delhi Duty Free and Ospree Duty Free Mumbai can once again discover Hibiki 12, a whisky that has been reimagined by fifth-generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. His new interpretation combines malt whiskies from Yamazaki and Hakushu with grain whisky from Chita, matured in American oak, Spanish oak and Mizunara oak casks. The result is a refined Japanese blended whisky that balances tradition with innovation, offering a layered complexity designed to appeal to discerning palates.  

The relaunch also brings refreshed packaging inspired by Kacho-Fugetsu, the classical Japanese concept that celebrates the beauty of nature through flowers, birds, wind and moon. Hibiki’s iconic 24-faceted bottle, symbolising Japan’s 24 microseasons, remains at the heart of the design. The update introduces the Marumado circular window motif, a traditional element that evokes harmony and contemplation, further enhancing the bottle’s cultural resonance.  

On the nose, Hibiki 12 Travel Exclusive reveals aromas of persimmon, jasmine, cardamom, orange and sandalwood. The palate follows with spiced orange peel, toasted cinnamon and butterscotch, culminating in a long, spiced finish. The House of Suntory recommends serving the whisky over a traditional Marugori hand-carved ice ball, a ritual that underscores the artistry and precision of Japanese whisky culture.  

The return of Hibiki 12 to travel retail is significant not only for collectors and enthusiasts but also for the broader narrative of Japanese whisky’s global journey. Travel-exclusive expressions have long been prized for their rarity and distinctiveness, and Hibiki 12’s reappearance reinforces Suntory’s commitment to offering travellers unique experiences that embody craftsmanship and heritage.  

India’s inclusion in this relaunch highlights the growing importance of the country’s travel retail market, which has become a key gateway for international spirits brands. By positioning Hibiki 12 at major hubs such as Delhi and Mumbai, Suntory is tapping into a diverse audience of global travellers while reaffirming its dedication to innovation rooted in tradition.  

This revival of Hibiki 12 Years Old Travel Exclusive is more than a product launch; it is a statement of continuity and reinvention. It bridges the past and present, honouring the legacy of Hibiki while presenting a refreshed vision for the future. For whisky lovers, the return of this expression offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with a classic, now reimagined for a new generation of travellers.  

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Bugatti has once again demonstrated its ability to transform automotive engineering into cultural storytelling with the unveiling of the W16 Mistral ‘Blanc Éternel.’ This latest Sur Mesure commission pays tribute to Germany’s Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM), the country’s second-oldest porcelain manufacturer, and continues a partnership that began 15 years ago with the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport ‘L’Or Blanc.’  

The new creation embodies Bugatti’s philosophy that every car must tell a story. In this case, the narrative is one of heritage and artistry, expressed through porcelain-inspired design. Black lines trace the pure white exterior of the open-top hypercar, adding geometric depth and three-dimensional contrast, a visual language that elevates the Mistral’s sculptural form. The result is a striking interplay of purity and precision, echoing the timeless qualities of porcelain itself.  

Frank Heyl, Bugatti’s Design Director, described the commission as “extraordinarily beautiful because every line and every material serves a purpose.” He emphasised that the project required close collaboration between Bugatti’s Berlin-based design team and KPM’s experts, ensuring that the car not only honoured Bugatti’s history but also redefined it through digital design innovation. “‘Blanc Éternel’ pays homage to Bugatti’s history without being constrained by it, and combines our heritage with individual taste in an entirely new way,” Heyl noted, underscoring the essence of Sur Mesure as authentic and timeless.  

The unveiling of the hypercar was accompanied by the launch of the “Blanc Éternel” Collection, a trio of porcelain pieces crafted in collaboration with KPM. Limited to 1,000 handcrafted examples, the Aviator Cafe Cup, Aviator Espresso Cup, and To-Drive Cup extend the partnership beyond the automotive sphere, offering collectors a tangible link between Bugatti’s design ethos and porcelain artistry.  

The project also highlights Bugatti’s growing presence in Berlin, where its new 12,000 square-foot design headquarters played a central role in configuring the W16 Mistral. This expansion reflects the marque’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, ensuring that each bespoke commission is both a technical achievement and a cultural statement.  

‘Blanc Éternel’ is more than a hypercar; it is a continuation of a dialogue between engineering and art, heritage and modernity. By weaving porcelain craftsmanship into the DNA of its flagship roadster, Bugatti has created a masterpiece that transcends performance to become a symbol of identity, imagination, and enduring beauty.  

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Devans Modern Breweries, the celebrated maker of GianChand Single Malt Whisky, has announced its entry into the premium gin segment with the launch of Gingalalahu Indian Craft Dry Gin. The move marks a significant expansion for the company, which has built a reputation for quality and craftsmanship in the Indian spirits industry.  

Gingalalahu is crafted with nine exotic botanicals, carefully selected to deliver a vibrant and balanced flavour profile. Bottled at 42.8 per cent ABV, the gin is produced in small batches of just 200 litres, a method that ensures freshness, depth, and complexity in every release. Staying true to the principles of a classic dry gin, Gingalalahu contains no artificial flavourings or added sweeteners, with its character derived entirely from natural botanicals and spices.  

The brand describes its philosophy as “Nature’s Symphony in a Bottle,” reflecting its commitment to offering a distinctive drinking experience that is both refreshing and unmistakably premium. With its artisanal approach and emphasis on authenticity, Gingalalahu is positioned to appeal to discerning consumers seeking high-quality craft spirits.  

For Devans, this launch represents not only diversification but also a bold statement about India’s evolving premium spirits landscape. As gin continues to gain popularity among urban consumers, Gingalalahu is set to carve a niche in the growing market, reinforcing Devans’ reputation as a pioneer in Indian craft beverages.  

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Alcobrew Distilleries India Limited, makers of One More Vodka, has unveiled One More Next Vodka – Twisty Minty Jamun, the latest entrant in its One More Next range. Building on the success of its Cranberry variant, the launch underscores Alcobrew’s commitment to flavour innovation rooted in Indian taste preferences.  

Twisty Minty Jamun blends the tart, earthy character of jamun with a refreshing mint note, creating a distinct profile designed for both neat sipping and cocktail versatility. Positioned to appeal to younger, urban consumers engaged with cocktail culture and home mixology, the variant requires minimal additions to mix well, making it suitable for on-premise and at-home occasions alike.  

Ashutosh Rajput, Chief Operating Officer, explained, “With Twisty Minty Jamun, we wanted to build a flavour around a taste Indian consumers already know. Flavour has become a key differentiator in the category, particularly among younger, urban consumers. One More Next was created to compete in this space. Cranberry established the range’s positioning; Twisty Minty Jamun extends it with a flavour built specifically around Indian taste memory.”  

Targeting vodka drinkers aged 25 to 40 in urban and semi-urban markets, the new variant emphasises flavour distinctiveness and brand identity over price sensitivity. It retains the established One More Next design system, including bottle silhouette, tube packaging, logotype, and the brand’s signature mascot, ensuring continuity across the range.  

The launch begins in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, where the One More portfolio already enjoys strong consumer traction, with expansion into Punjab and Chandigarh planned in the coming months. Under the leadership of Romesh Pandita, Chairman and Managing Director, Alcobrew continues to invest in flavour-led innovation, signalling its intent to strengthen its position in India’s evolving vodka landscape.  

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Rampur Distillery has paid tribute to India’s regal traditions with a remarkable evening titled A Salute to The Royal Heritage. Hosted at the NMACC Arts Café, the event brought together whisky connoisseurs and culinary enthusiasts for an exclusive unveiling of Rampur 1943 Virasat Indian Single Malt, the latest jewel in Rampur’s distinguished portfolio.  

The launch was designed as an immersive experience, blending artistry in whisky-making with the rich cultural tapestry of Uttar Pradesh. Guests were treated to a curated tasting session that highlighted the nuanced character of Rampur’s single malt expressions. Each pour was accompanied by a specially crafted multi-course menu, inspired by the culinary traditions of the region. From delicate appetisers to robust mains, every dish was conceived to complement and elevate the tasting notes of the whiskies, creating a symphony of flavour and heritage.  

The evening was more than a tasting; it was a celebration of India’s royal lineage and Rampur’s enduring pursuit of perfection. The ambience reflected quiet sophistication, while the pairing of food and whisky underscored the artistry behind both crafts. For attendees, the experience offered not only a sensory journey but also a deeper connection to the heritage that inspires Rampur’s creations.  

The unveiling of Rampur 1943 Virasat marks a significant milestone in the distillery’s journey. It represents a new chapter that bridges tradition with modern refinement, positioning Indian single malts as global contenders in the world of fine spirits. By intertwining heritage, gastronomy, and craftsmanship, Rampur has once again demonstrated its ability to create moments that resonate far beyond the glass.  

With this launch, Rampur Distillery continues to elevate India’s presence on the international whisky stage, offering connoisseurs a taste of history, artistry, and elegance in every sip.  

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Mazda Australia has unveiled a striking new campaign to introduce the Next-Gen Mazda CX-5, positioning the SUV as a landmark in the brand’s portfolio. Developed by Clemenger BBDO, the initiative is titled “It’s Kind of a Big Deal” and is anchored by a cinematic film called The Mountaintop.  

Shot on location at Mount Wellington in Tasmania, the film takes the concept of “singing a car’s praises” to literal heights. As the 2026 Mazda CX-5 winds its way up the mountain’s twisting roads, a choir composed of Mazda designers, engineers and drivers climbs toward the summit, performing an original song created specifically for the campaign. The spectacle blends the grandeur of the natural landscape with the human voices celebrating the SUV’s design, performance and innovation.  

Directed by Christopher Riggert and produced in collaboration with FINCH Company, the film is a bold creative statement. It elevates the familiar trope of automotive advertising by combining music, storytelling and engineering pride into a single narrative. The choir’s ascent mirrors the CX-5’s journey, symbolising the collective effort behind the vehicle’s creation and the emotional resonance it seeks to inspire among drivers.  

Mazda’s decision to stage the campaign in Tasmania underscores its ambition to connect the CX-5 with both adventure and artistry. The mountain setting provides a dramatic backdrop, while the choir’s performance conveys authenticity and passion. By involving the very people who designed and built the car, the campaign highlights the human ingenuity behind the machine, reinforcing the CX-5’s identity as more than just a product—it is a collaborative achievement.  

The CX-5 has long been a cornerstone of Mazda’s line-up, and the Next-Gen model represents a significant evolution. With enhanced features and refined styling, it aims to strengthen Mazda’s position in the competitive SUV market. The campaign’s tagline, “It’s Kind of a Big Deal,” reflects both the importance of the vehicle to Mazda’s future and the confidence with which it is being introduced.  

Through The Mountaintop, Mazda Australia and Clemenger BBDO have crafted a campaign that is as much a celebration of creativity as it is of engineering. By marrying music, landscape and design, the launch of the Next-Gen CX-5 becomes a cultural moment, inviting audiences to see the SUV not only as a practical choice but as a symbol of innovation and pride.  

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Imuse has revealed a bold new chapter in its journey, unveiling a brand identity crafted in collaboration with The Circle – Branding Partners. The project, developed for Vietnam Kirin Beverage Company, Limited, represents a fusion of scientific credibility and youthful energy, designed to capture the imagination of a new generation of consumers.

The refreshed identity reflects Imuse’s dual commitment to innovation and accessibility. By blending a scientific mindset with vibrant dynamism, the design positions the brand as both trustworthy and contemporary. The Circle’s approach was to create a visual language that feels fresh and modern, while ensuring it communicates the brand’s core values of health, vitality, and confidence.

The new look is characterised by clean, modern typography, energetic colour palettes, and dynamic visual elements that convey movement and life. This aesthetic aims to resonate with younger audiences who value authenticity and creativity, while also reinforcing Imuse’s scientific foundation. The result is a brand identity that feels both credible and exciting, bridging the gap between rigorous science and everyday lifestyle appeal.

For Vietnam Kirin Beverage Company, Limited, the project underscores a strategic ambition to strengthen its presence in a competitive market. By embracing a design that is forward-looking yet grounded in scientific trust, Imuse is positioning itself as a brand that not only delivers functional benefits but also inspires emotional connection.

The collaboration with The Circle highlights the importance of design in shaping consumer perception. Rather than relying solely on product attributes, the new identity creates a holistic brand experience that speaks to both the rational and emotional needs of consumers. It is a reminder that in today’s marketplace, design is not just decoration but a powerful tool for storytelling and engagement.

As Imuse steps into this new era, the brand identity serves as a beacon of its vision: to combine science and style in a way that feels relevant, inspiring, and enduring. The project is a testament to the power of creative partnerships in redefining how brands connect with audiences, and it sets the stage for Imuse’s continued growth in Vietnam and beyond.

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Suzuki has entered the electric vehicle market with a campaign that is anything but quiet. The launch of the e VITARA, unveiled under the cheeky banner of ‘Good Clean Dirty Fun’, marks a significant milestone for the brand and a fresh perspective for the EV segment.  

Daniel Sammut, acting national marketing manager for Suzuki Australia, described the moment as transformative. “The release of the e VITARA is a big moment. Because, with the first EV that you can actually have fun in, it’s not that Suzuki are about to get their first electric vehicle. Electric vehicles are about to get their first Suzuki.” His words underline the brand’s ambition to redefine what electric driving can mean, moving beyond efficiency and sustainability into the realm of enjoyment and adventure.  

The campaign, created in partnership with ATime&Place, deliberately breaks from the serene imagery that dominates EV advertising. Chief creative officer Matt Lawson explained the thinking: “Suzuki aren’t late to the party. They are the party. Most EV advertising sells quiet, calm, and being at one with nature. We tried to have a little more fun, and throw a little mud, like you can do in the new e VITARA.”  

The e VITARA is positioned as an electric SUV that can genuinely be driven in nature, offering drivers the chance to experience the outdoors without compromise. This emotional range, rather than just technical specifications, is what Suzuki believes will set the vehicle apart in a market where environmental credentials and range anxiety dominate consumer conversations.  

The campaign’s rollout is ambitious, spanning television commercials, out-of-home placements, radio, social media, digital channels, and live activations. Its timing is equally strategic, arriving as oil shocks push consumer interest in EV ownership to new heights. Suzuki’s message is clear: electric mobility doesn’t have to be sterile or restrained; it can be spirited, muddy, and fun.  

Sammut reinforced this sentiment, noting that Suzuki’s DNA has always been about energy and excitement. “Suzukis have always been electric in nature. We want EV fans and sceptics alike to get excited about an electric SUV that you can actually drive in nature, and can actually have fun in. Good, clean, dirty fun.”  

By reframing the EV narrative, Suzuki is not only introducing a new model but also challenging the conventions of how electric vehicles are marketed. The e VITARA represents a playful, adventurous alternative in a category often defined by restraint. For Suzuki, this is not simply about joining the EV race—it is about changing its rhythm entirely.  

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The evolution of football boots tells a parallel story to the sport itself — one of shifting materials, advancing technology and changing cultural meaning. From the heavy leather boots of the late 19th century to today’s lightweight, brightly coloured designs, each generation of footwear has reflected both the demands of the game and the spirit of its players. At the current World Cup, PUMA’s SHOWTIME PACK is the latest chapter in this history, bringing bold mismatched looks back to football’s biggest stage, inspired by the Tricks Packs of 2014 and 2016. When Christian Pulisic drives into the box for the USA or Neymar Jr. begins a dribble for Brazil, the flash of colour is fleeting for spectators, but for the players the boot is designed to disappear into the rhythm of movement — supporting every sprint, touch and turn without distraction.

For Tung Hoang, Manager at the PUMA Archive and a lifelong boot enthusiast, these designs are more than performance tools; they are cultural artefacts. He traces their lineage from the earliest days of football in England, when players wore work or military boots. High-cut, heavy and fitted with nailed-on studs, these early models prioritised protection and stability. “You really had about half a kilo of shoe on your foot,” Tung notes, and in rain or mud they became even heavier. This principle endured for decades, with little change until the mid-20th century.

The breakthrough came in 1950, when PUMA launched the ATOM. At around 300 grams, it was a revelation. Every element — leather, sole, construction, upper height — was pared back to reduce weight without sacrificing protection. Two years later, the SUPER-ATOM introduced screw-in studs, allowing players to adapt their boots to different surfaces. Wet grass, dry grass, soft ground — the boot became a tool responsive to conditions, and the principle of replaceable studs remains a cornerstone of modern design.

From that point, football boots became progressively lighter, more flexible and more expressive. Soles evolved to enhance agility, uppers shed weight to improve speed, and designs embraced visibility as part of the spectacle. What began as black workwear transformed into statements of identity and style on the pitch. Today, the SHOWTIME PACK continues this trajectory, merging performance with personality. Its bold colours and mismatched aesthetics are not just visual flourishes but reminders of how far the boot has travelled — from heavy leather burdens to lightweight extensions of the athlete’s body.

The history of football boots is therefore inseparable from the history of football itself. Each innovation reflects a shift in how the game is played and perceived, from industrial workwear to cultural iconography. As PUMA’s latest designs light up the World Cup, they carry forward a legacy of constant reinvention, proving that in football, the boot is never just a boot.

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British footwear innovator FitFlop is embarking on a bold transformation to reposition itself as a global design-led lifestyle powerhouse, with ambitions to become a billion-dollar brand.  

The company, founded on the principle of merging comfort with style, is now accelerating its growth trajectory under the leadership of CEO Gianni Georgiades and Chief Product and Brand Officer Louise Noble. Their vision is crystallising in the upcoming Spring/Summer 2027 collection, which places biomechanical engineering at the heart of everyday footwear, specifically tailored to women. This scientific approach to design is intended to redefine comfort while expanding FitFlop’s reach into high-growth closed-toe categories such as sneakers and ballerinas.  

At the same time, FitFlop is doubling down on its lightweight iQushion range, positioning it as a premium summer staple. By combining technical innovation with lifestyle appeal, the brand is aiming to dominate the seasonal footwear market and broaden its consumer base.  

Cultural engagement is another cornerstone of FitFlop’s strategy. The company has unveiled a three-track collaboration programme designed to capture diverse audiences and inject fresh energy into its brand narrative. Partnerships with Pantone bring colour authority, Haribo adds playful nostalgia, and London Fashion Week designer Roksanda introduces high-fashion credibility. Together, these collaborations reflect FitFlop’s ambition to operate at the intersection of culture, design, and commerce.  

Financially, the company is building on strong momentum. Record revenues of 170 million dollars in 2025 have provided the foundation for aggressive expansion. FitFlop is scaling its international retail footprint through strategic distribution partnerships in South Korea, Spain, and the Middle East. To support this growth, it has invested in a new automated European logistics hub, ensuring efficiency and responsiveness in serving global markets.  

This transformation signals a decisive shift for FitFlop, which has long been recognised for its comfort-first sandals. By diversifying into closed-toe categories, embracing collaborations, and embedding advanced engineering into its products, the brand is positioning itself as more than a footwear company. It is evolving into a lifestyle player with global ambitions, intent on reshaping consumer perceptions and capturing new market segments.  

For Georgiades and Noble, the journey is about balancing heritage with innovation. FitFlop’s DNA of biomechanical comfort remains central, but the brand’s future lies in its ability to translate that expertise into broader lifestyle categories. With a clear strategy, strong financial base, and cultural collaborations, FitFlop is setting the stage for its next chapter: a billion-dollar brand that redefines everyday comfort for women worldwide.  

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