Kering Expands Jewelry Business and Tech Innovation in China

French luxury group Kering SA is shifting its strategic focus toward jewelry expansion and technological integration to drive growth in the Chinese market. The company showcased this commitment during the ninth China International Import Expo held in Shanghai in early November 2026. Jean-Marc Duplaix, the group chief operating officer of Kering and CEO of Kering Jewelry, stated that China remains a central pillar of the company's long-term global strategy. Kering aims to adapt to evolving consumer preferences by blending its established brand heritage with local market insights. This approach is part of a broader effort to maintain relevance in a challenging global luxury environment. The group is actively working to balance its international identity with the specific demands of the Chinese consumer base. To support these goals, Kering has established an innovation hub in Shanghai designed to connect the company with local technology startups. This facility explores practical applications for artificial intelligence, virtual try-on tools, and personalized customer experiences. Over the past five years, Kering has collaborated with more than 50 startups in the region to develop solutions that may eventually be deployed across its global operations. These technologies are intended to improve manufacturing efficiency and enhance how the group engages with its clientele. The initiative reflects a wider trend of luxury houses seeking to integrate digital advancements into their traditional business models. Beyond technology, Kering is also refining its physical retail footprint to optimize performance. The company recently accelerated its store closure program, shutting 128 locations worldwide to streamline operations. This move surpassed the group's original annual target of 100 net closures, leading management to raise the goal to at least 125 closures by the end of 2026. Despite these adjustments, Kering continues to invest in its core houses and creative leadership. The company recently appointed Martine Rose as the new creative director of Balenciaga to lead the brand into a new chapter. These combined efforts in retail optimization, creative leadership, and technological investment represent Kering's strategy to navigate current economic headwinds. The group continues to emphasize sustainability and operational excellence as key performance indicators for its future growth.