BRANDTHINK Malaysia » Luxury

#Rewind2011: Our Most Inspiring Interviews of 2011

PR & Publicity — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:47:29 +0000

Part of our work as a PR agency involves arranging for interviews with members of the media in Malaysia on behalf of our clients. We sit in these press interviews many times and these are moments that we get to hear great clients tell their stories. These are some of the most inspiring tales from media interviews that we have arranged throughout 2011.

Dr. Markus Miele and Dr. Reinhard Zinkann for Miele (The Peak, December 2011)

In conjunction with the opening of the first Miele showroom gallery in Malaysia, interviews for the two Managing Directors for Miele Group, Dr. Markus Miele and Dr. Reinhard Zinkann. The two are heirs of the founding fathers of Miele – Reinhard Zinkann and Carl Miele, who got together in 1899. In the three-page spread interview with The Peak, Dr. Miele and Dr. Zinkann bantered on the shared timeline of Miele. Both families across four generations working at the same company for more than a century is an unmatched feat. In the interview, both of the managing directors spoke on the intricacies of decision-making with two heads and the importance of finding a joint solution.

Christopher Chong for Amouage (The Star2, September 2011)

The Creative Director of Oman-based luxury perfumer Amouage was in Kuala Lumpur in the middle of this year for the launch of its newest fragrance. Along with the Honour fragrance, Christopher Chong brought with him his sentiments on perfumes, its philosophy and its representation. The house of Amouage was an idea from the Sultanate of Oman, who wanted to create the world’s most previous scent inspired by Oman. The tall order was fulfilled by the late senior royal Sayyid Hamad Hamood Al-Busaidi. All Amouage fragrances are known to be extravagantly scented and even more extravagantly priced, rightly so considering its luxe ingredients.

In his PR interviews, Christopher touched on his eccentric career path and illustrated the inspiration behind Honour – an aria from Madame Butterfly, a world-famous opera.

Jeremy Lim for Cortina Watch (Prestige, December 2011)

The re-opening of luxury watch retailer Cortina Watch at its Fahrenheit 88 location was eagerly greeted by watch enthusiasts and socialites alike. BRANDTHINK arranged for media interviews with its COO, Jeremy Lim prior to the boutique’s grand re-opening ceremony. Prestige Magazine’s two-page spread for the interview, “Watch this Space” saw Jeremy speaking on what the Malaysian market look for in timepieces, watch trends and styles to look forward to in 2012, as well as the company’s continuous efforts to provide top-notch service to its clientele.

C.W. Goh for Dulux/AkzoNobel ICI Paints (StarBiz, November 2011)

Managing Director of AkzoNobel ICI Paints, C.W. Goh got up close and personal with StarBiz recently. The former shared his life journey that got him to where he is now – leading the Malaysian division of AkzoNobel, which happens to also carry the Dulux line of home and deco paints.

Goh associated parts of his life with certain colourss – grey for a sombre and self-reliant childhood, where he was a slow learner; orange for teenaged years representing the energy and risk-taking; and a calm blue for his university life, when he found a balance of sorts with studying and working. The year ahead is bound to bring new experiences and colours for him – as Dulux ColourFutures revealed the theme for 2012 to be Possibilities, accompanied by the color of the year, a blushing Tea Dance Red.

Theodore Diehl for Richard Mille (Icon Magazine)

The official spokesperson for Richard Mille Paris, Theodore Diehl, was in Malaysia in July 2011 for an intimate afternoon tea. Attended by select members of the media, the afternoon tea saw Theodore sharing his insight on the latest Richard Mille SIHH 2011 collection and aspects of watch-making. The attendees also had the opportunity to ask the horologist questions on watchmaking and timepieces in general.

Chinese monthly publication Icon interviewed Theodore while he was in Malaysia. The in-depth interview had him talking about the Richard Mille brand and the challenges in creating new timepieces, while not straying too far from its conservative roots. He also spoke on future plans for Richard Mille and the types of timepieces the brand will put forward in the years ahead.

Laurent Helbert for Kronenbourg 1664 (The Edge, January 2011)

Laurent Helbert is the international marketing director of Kronenbourg 1664, France’s best-selling premium beer. He was interviewed by The Edge under its Tastings segment, inviting the reporter to try out Kronenbourg 1664 with a selection of foods.

Laurent shared with the writer the intricacies of the beer and how it is best enjoyed. He also notes that the beer is widely received by both men and women, due to the delicate balance of bitterness and sweetness. Also mentioned in the epicurean’s delight of an article was how the Kronenbourg does not waste in the afternoon heat – on the contrary, its flavor is rendered and becomes more flavorful!

Goris Verburg for IWC & Roger Dubuis (Nanyang Siang Pao, December 2011)

Goris Verburg, the managing director for IWC South East Asia was in town recently for the launch of IWC’s Portofino collection and the reveal of Roger Dubuis’ La Monegasque collection. Both collections are momentous and significant ones for both brands – Portofino being the first collection to feature Friends of IWC along with legendary photographer Peter Lindbergh, and the La Monegasque being the first collection from Roger Dubuis after Richemont group bought a stake in the watch manufacturer.

In the press interview with Chinese daily Nanyang Siang Pao, Goris spoke of the rebirth of the Roger Dubuis brand. Amidst the 2008 financial crisis, the watch manufacturer was bought over by the Richemont group and continues to maintain its prestige and exclusivity among the select few. He also touched on the foreseeable future of Roger Dubuis, noting that it is not a brand designed for mass consumption, but for the pleasure of a niche group of people.

As we close 2011 and look towards 2012, we are hopeful that we will continue to have more opportunities to sit in with our PR clients and be inspired by their stories. Perks of the job.

Related posts:

#Rewind 2011: Our Top 7 Favorite Events of 2011

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 07:59:18 +0000

We are fast approaching the end of the year 2011. Exiting the noughties and entering the “tens” has brought with it much experience and exciting times for the agency on both the PR and Creative sides. For the past 12 months, we have been involved with marketing campaigns that made us proud of what we do. In this multi-part year-end special, we look at the top seven favorite events that put smiles across our faces.

IWC: Timeless Memories in Portofino

On a starry night in Kuala Lumpur, IWC aficionados gathered at White Box, a hip contemporary art space at MAP @ Publika for a private viewing of Peter Lindbergh’s Portofino, an artistic collaboration between the legendary photographer and the renowned Swiss watchmaker, along with IWC’s famous Friends of the Brand.

For this event, the team went all out to recreate a 60s-inspired feel, infused with the essence of La Dolce Vita – the sweet life, as the Italians call it. Outside, for the grand entrance, the replica of a cinema theatre entrance of the past was constructed. Simple but commanding in appearance, it was dotted with lightbulbs and certainly did its part in setting the mood for the evening. A vintage Alfa Romeo and a Fiat were brought in to add to the feel of the era, as well as models dressed in 50s garb.

Dulux Color Futures 2012 Launch

A departure from our typical luxury events, BRANDTHINK was tasked with the launch of Dulux ColourFutures in Malaysia, encompassing PR, publicity and event management.

The launch event incorporated splashes of color throughout the venue. Colourful mats and posters were the order of the day, showcasing different Colours of the Year from previous years. A bright and energetic team of flash mob dancers brought a buzz into the room when they performed their routine, which ended with a bang – inviting the Managing Directors on stage, they tore off the white paper sealing the backdrop of the stage to reveal the Colour of the Year for 2012 – a blushing and lively Tea Dance Red.

Kronenbourg 1664 and Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc Launch

One of our most notable projects was the launch of Kronenbourg 1664 in Malaysia. The best-selling super premium French beer with a light taste is closely associated with the arts, fashion and all things creative. With the tagline of “The French Art of Pleasure”, Kronenbourg 1664 was ready to offer Malaysians a beer that came with a culture of its own.

What made this really special was that we worked intimately on introducing the philosophy, heritage and brand story of Kronenbourg 1664 months ahead of its official launch. The brand went on to capture the imagination of consumers and became one of the most talked about new brands in the beer industry.

Among the media and public relations we handled for Kronenbourg 1664 were the Kronenbourg 1664 launch, the launch of Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, the Kronenbourg Media Appreciation Night and Kronenbourg Who’s Next Designer Search in conjunction with Malaysian International Fashion Week 2011.

Häagen-Dazs Christmas Convoy

Häagen-Dazs, purveyor of slow-melting ice cream and indulgent moments greeted the Christmas and holiday season with a selection of new and limited edition menu offerings nationwide. As its official PR agency, BRANDTHINK developed and conceptualized the Haagen-Dazs Christmas Convoy to take its Christmas delight and merriment to the public.

In line with its Getting Closer tagline, the Christmas Convoy carrying lanky Santarinas and one hot Santa Claus made stops around high-traffic locations in Kuala Lumpur to meet and greet the public. Bearing Haagen-Dazs minicup ice creams, the Christmas Convoy was greeted with much fanfare from weekend shoppers and families crowding the shopping malls.

[FACEBOOK ALBUM] [PRESS RELEASE] [UNOFFICIAL BLOG]

DC Comics Super Heroes Store Launch

Superman? Batman? Wonder Woman? It should be pretty obvious why this landed our favorites list.

The world’s favorite house of superheroes, DC Comics Super Heroes recently opened its first boutique in Malaysia. Located on the sixth floor of Pavilion KL, the boutique is home to DC Comics merchandise, memorabilia and props from real DC Super Hero movies, including a Batmobile at the store entrance. The launch of DC Comics Super Heroes was long overdue – but better late than never. BRANDTHINK was tasked with PR and publicity matters for the launch.

The Big Launch(es)

We get a little excited when an Apple retailer opens shop in Malaysia. We are proud to have helped many resellers launch their stores as part of our work with Apple and this year, we took our launch concepts even further. The Big Launch for Machines Aeon Bukit Tinggi in Klang and The Big Launch for Machines Aeon Tebrau City in Johor Bharu was greeted with much fanfare, and there was a buzz surrounding the respective Machines store before it even opened.

Over 100 people were lined up at the stores for the 12pm official launch even before the mall opened at 10am. Some of the earlier ones in line were there the night before! These launch events were one of the most exciting ones we had and we’re really proud to be caught up together with all the excitement of everything Apple.

Roger Dubuis La Monegasque Launch

It’s not everyday we get to feel like a million dollars. Geneva-based watch manufacturer Roger Dubuis’ latest collection in 2011 features Monte Carlo casino-inspired timepieces. Aptly named the La Monegasque after the culture and people of Monaco, the collection of Chronographs and Automatics were introduced to the Malaysian press, glitterati and watch aficionados at an evening of dinner and entertainment called The Player’s Universe.

The highlight of the night was the after-dinner party, kicked off by Janet’s rendition of Hey Big Spender. The blackjack and roulette tables were open for the night. Guests were given RD money at the start of the event to use in their rounds of blackjack or roulette, and one very lucky player of the night walked home with a watch from the La Monegasque collection.

[FACEBOOK ALBUM] [PRESS RELEASE] [UNOFFICIAL BLOG]

Related posts:

PR+Events: Timeless Memories of Portofino with IWC in Malaysia

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:39:26 +0000

The International Watch Company (IWC) recently teamed up with legendary photographer Peter Lindbergh to create a photographic collection, “Peter Lindbergh’s Portofino” – named after the IWC Portofino selection of timepieces. The curated collection of black and white photographs travels around the world and made its one and only Malaysian pit stop at contemporary art gallery space, White Box at MAP @ Publika. As IWC’s PR Agency of Record in Malaysia, we had the opportunity to put on an exclusive exhibition featuring the iconic photographer on 16 November 2011.

Snapshot with Peter Lindbergh

Peter Lindbergh has shot many legendary figures and his images have graced countless magazine covers, most noticeably kickstarting the supermodel phenomenon with the British Vogue January 1990 cover.

Peter, along with IWC and Friends of IWC came together under the banner of Portofino for a photographic collection that featured IWC’s Portofino collection and for the first time ever, stars such as Kevin Spacey, Elle McPherson, Eric Dane, Cate Blanchett, Jean Reno and Zinedine Zidane.

Set in the small but picturesque fishing village of Portofino, the Italian theme of La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life) resonated throughout the shoot and translated into simple, beautiful images.

From Idea to Birth

From the start, we knew that we had to create an arresting experience worthy of the masterpieces on showcase. Drawing the inspiration from Peter’s magical photographs, the glamourous personalities he captured and the allure of the Italian Riviera, we recreated the glam of a film festival. The concept called for a glamourous, glitzy Hollywood-style set that would transport our guests right into the world of the stars.

The entrance of the White Box was transformed into a beautiful grand entrance of a cinema reminisce of a Hollywood film premiere. Sharing the limelight at the entrance were two bright red vintage cars, an Alfa Romeo and a Fiat. These perfectly conditioned cars, manufactured in the fifties, were much sought-after for impromptu photo shoots throughout the night whenever guests arrived.

Those invited to experience “A Night in Portofino” include the crème de la crème of Malaysia’s high society, celebrities and watch connoisseurs. As they arrive and made their way up the red carpet, models dressed in fifties’ garb and bright smiles welcomed them in style. Accompanying the guests as they strode up the walkway, they were flanked by “paparazzi” flashing their cameras. The grandiose entrance certainly became a table topic for the night and had guests feeling like movie stars themselves!

Creating Timeless Memories

White Box was an empty canvas with movable walls that allowed for the creation of an art gallery. The framed pictures hung on these walls and created a flow to the event, allowing for guests to peruse the images one at a time at their own pace. Cocktail tables dotted the area alongside watchtowers that held another masterpiece – the Portofino collection. These allowed for guests to study the inspirational timepieces behind the photographs.

A Night to Remember

The “IWC Timeless Memories of Portofino” event was true to the IWC brand, bringing to life aspects of the Portofino culture.

From our experience, we knew that guests would love the idea of photo moments that they could take home and remember. That led to the creation of the Portofino corner, a scene right out of the Italian fishing village, complete with a Vespa and movie lights where guests could take a souvenir picture as keep-sake. Lovely models add to the prestige to give it a unique experience.

As for entertainment, guests were spoiled for choice. Portraiture artists were ready to sketch a true-to-life image of the guests, while a silhouette artist went around to cut out the profile of guests in a jiffy. These activities allowed IWC to created a lasting impression, memories guests could take home and relive. A live jazz band was on hand to provide the soundtrack to the night serving sounds of smooth jazz, samba and Italian themes.

There was also a live cooking stations serving a delectable palette of Italian canapés, washed down with Italian wine to suit the theme of the evening.

The charming Fay Hokulani was the host for the evening, engaging the guests as the night went on. Goris Verburg, the Managing Director of IWC South East Asia graced the event and introduced the guests to the scenic Portofino and the iconic IWC watches.

More Resources:

Press Release: IWC Southeast Asia Presents “Peter Lindbergh’s Portofino”

More photos at: BRANDTHINK Facebook Album or BRANDTHINK Google+ Page

Related posts:

PR: Grand launch of Bang & Olufsen showcase gallery

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 05:22:33 +0000

Danish brand Bang & Olufsen, famed for its high quality audio and visual products opened its first flagship showroom in The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley. BRANDTHINK, via its regional partner MJ Group was tasked with all PR-related and launch event matters for the opening on the 13th of October 2011.

Recently voted as one of the coolest brands in the United Kingdom by research company Coolbrands, the launch of the Bang & Olufsen showroom was graced by VIPs as well as guests from the media. One of the key objectives of the PR campaign was to highlight the design sensibilities of the Bang & Olufsen brand through its BeoLiving concept. The BeoLiving concept was incorporated into the 1,400 square feet store, integrating high-class functionality with lifestyle. This concept seamlessly integrates through every facet of the home entertainment experience with push of a button.

In the limelight and on display that night was one of Bang & Olufsen’s newest and most modern technology yet – the 85-inch plasma TV, the BeoVision 4. The home cinema system is the first Full HD screen TV with 3D and is controlled by the Beo6 remote control. The giant home cinema system aims to deliver the ultimate TV experience with exceptional cinema quality.

The all-new BeoSound 8 was also the center of attention that night. The elegantly-designed powerful speaker dock for iPad, iPhone and iPod delivers top-notch sound performance wherever it is placed. It also comes with a unique manual room adaptation switch with three positions for the optimized sound performance. Two units of the BeoSound 8 were given out as lucky draw prizes that night.

To add pizzazz to the launch, these two stars of Bang & Olufsen were incorporated into the launch gambit. When the VIPs pushed a button on a remote control, the BeoVision 4, BeoSound 8 and other Bang & Olufsen products in the store was turned on and played the same audio and visual material, to the delight of those present.

Violinist extraordinaire Joanne Yeoh was roped in to perform for the launch. Her dazzling performance was enhanced by the powerful Bang & Olufsen speakers, adding dimension to the soundtrack of the momentous occasion.

Further resources:

Photo album from the Launch Event: Facebook Album

Press Release of the boutique opening: Bang & Olufsen opens flagship store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Product Press Releases:

Speaker docking gets serious with Bang & Olufsen

Bang & Olufsen launches new elegant TV giant with 3D

#InTheNews: BRANDTHINK Bags Two Accounts

Related posts:

#InTheNews: BRANDTHINK Bags Two Accounts in Malaysia

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 10:18:37 +0000

News story about BRANDTHINK Malaysia published on Marketing-Interactive.com on Oct 14, 2011

BRANDTHINK Bags Two Accounts

Malaysia – Local PR agency Brandthink has added two new clients namely, German domestic appliances manufacturer Miele and audio and video manufacturer Bang & Olufsen, in Malaysia.

For Miele, Brandthink is working to boost the brand’s awareness in Malaysia, with the mandate to oversee its day-to-day PR activities in the local market.

Jui Hong Teoh managing director of Brandthink said since it was the brand’s official entry into the Malaysian market the agency is eager to start on the account.

“This win is great news for our agency. It’s good old fashion public relations work with an eye towards ensuring favorable reviews of the brand particularly amongst the affluent market segments.”

For Bang & Olufsen, the agency will raise the profile of the brand for its new distributor, Singapore-based MJ Group, with the launch Bang & Olufsen’s flagship store at The Gardens Mall, Kuala Lumpur. The solo concept showroom will mark the brand’s re-emergence into the Malaysian market.

Over the next few weeks the agency will be introducing the Bang & Olufsen experience to Malaysia via many private tours and demonstrations with members of the media, starting from launch day.

Commenting on the market for luxury products, Teoh added: “The affluent market is a strong and growing market. More Malaysians today are discovering a palette for all things refined. Consumers who value the finer things in life will take to the design-conscious values of Bang & Olufsen and its products.”

Bang & Olufsen: Bang & Olufsen opens flagship store in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Related posts:

PR: Amouage, inspired by Madame Butterfly

PR & Publicity — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:27:04 +0000

Madame Butterfly is a favorite among opera production companies and is one of the most played opera in the world. Written by Giacomo Puccini, this Italian opera was based on a short story set in Nagasaki, Japan.

The story is as follows: During his tenure in Nagasaki, a young United States Navy by the name of Benjamin Franklin Pinkerton is put into an arranged marriage with a young Japanese girl called Cio-Cio San, also known as Madame Butterfly. Theirs is a love that ends in tragedy. After their marriage, Pinkerton left for the United States for three years. Butterfly bore Pinkerton’s son (aptly named Trouble) but her love was never to be reciprocated. Waiting anxiously and patiently for Pinkerton’s imminent return, she is slapped in the face (figuratively!) when he returns with his American wife to take Butterfly’s son away. She proceeds to commit suicide.

It’s a haunting story of misguided love that inspired Oman-based House of Amouage to create its Honour perfume for men and women. Honour perfume takes its cue largely from the final aria of the opera – To Die With Honour (here referring to Butterfly’s suicide).

BRANDTHINK Malaysia was the official PR agency for the launch of Honour by the House of Amouage.

Its launch on the 27th of June at Sultan Lounge in Mandarin Oriental Hotel was a black-tie event. Media and guests alike were dressed to the nines as they arrived in the evening. The attendees mingled casually as Elaine Daly took to the stage as the host of the evening, introducing the perfume. Then she welcomed the Creative Director of Amouage, Christopher Chong, to tell the story behind the perfume. He’s the same man behind all of the House of Amouage’s fragrances – Jubilation, Lyric, Epic, Memoir and the Library collection.

After his brief speech on the fragrance’s inspiration and the story it tells, the Fragrance Film was played for the guests. It’s a short film with a haunting and melodic soundtrack to accompany stunning visuals. It was something you’d expect from an art house, loaded with symbolisms.

Afterwards, ardent fans of Christopher’s creations swarmed around him, some with Honour bottles in their hands for him to autograph.

The fragrance for women has Tuberose, Jasmine, Gardenia and Lily of the Valley. Each ingredient represents an emotion or a meaning. These four scents are brought together by Frankincense, Amber and Opoponax. Interesting fact: most sought after frankincense comes from the Dhofar region in Oman, where Amouage is from!

If you’re wondering what Honour smells like, it’s only available in one place in Malaysia – Isetan KLCC.

Resources:

1. Press Release: Honour by The House of Amouage
2. TV Coverage on NTV7 Bella Show:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHNleUcW734

Related posts:

PR: Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Sat, 07 May 2011 12:50:51 +0000

It’s that time of the year again where you’ll search for the perfect gift for the woman in your life that deserves to be celebrated. Whether it’s your mom, or the woman you love who birth your children, there’s the perfect gift waiting to be discovered.

SANUK

At SANUK, we love a pair of fancy sandals that dazzle up a lady’s look. The new SANUK sandals collection for women, Ibiza Masquerade has the sugar and spice that will excite the senses of all fashionista mothers! Inspired by a twist of Bohemian fashion groove plus a passion for feminine detailing, these everyday sandals make a great accessory to complete the plethora of outfits in your wardrobe. The Ibiza Masquerade is made with the ultimate soft rubber footbed and circular rubber shape Ibiza strap which secures the sandal comfortably on the foot! For more info visit: Sanuk Ibiza Masquerade: The Sandals for Modern Chic Mothers!

FitFlop

Mother’s Day is the best time to show how much you care for your Mother and this year, FitFlop helps to put up a smile on the face of this lovely lady in your life. The FitFlop Rokkit is the perfect gift of love for every mother out there. Inspired by the wildly popular FitFlop Rockstar Walkstar, the Rokkit is ornamentally treated all over with layer after layer of shimmering crystal beads all over the super-soft genuine leather upper. Building on the success of the brand’s glitter collections, this glitzy pair comes in two gorgeous colors of Black Diamond and Bronze Ore. Info: FitFlop Rokkit – The genuine gift of love and care for every mother

Häagen-Dazs

If you want to take your mom on a truly delectable treat, head over to Häagen-Dazs and taste its new range of ice cream, the Ice Cream Smoothie. Inspired by fruit smoothies, the Ice Cream Smoothie is an innovative blend of refreshing fruit sorbet and creamy fruit ice cream concocted by the world’s finest ice cream purveyor. The combination of texture and fruity flavor will excite the senses of all premium ice cream devotees with a burst of refreshing pleasure on a hot Malaysian day. The new Ice Cream Smoothie range comes in two flavors – Mango & Apricot which combines smooth Mango sorbet and creamy Apricot ice cream with succulent apricot pieces and Raspberry & Summer Berries, an enticing blend of Raspberry sorbet and gorgeously creamy Summer Berries ice cream. More treats at: Häagen-Dazs shakes it up with new ice cream smoothie

Roger Dubuis

If you would like to appreciate the special Mom in the most extravagant manner, then feast your eyes on the Roger Dubuis’s latest wonder. Making its debut in 2011 is the Excalibur Lady line with a model in several versions, for women only. This elegant and seductive watch catches the eye with distinctive dials, in pure ROGER DUBUIS style, and incorporates mechanical movements which have been developed by the Manufacture, each hallmarked with the prestigious Poinçon de Genève. Combining force with subtle sophistication, these 36mm diameter models are proposed in steel, white gold or rose gold, with or without diamonds. Read more at: A great mother’s day gift: Roger Dubuis Excalibur Lady

Related posts:

#InTheNews: IWC Schaffhausen Clocks In With Brandthink

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Fri, 06 May 2011 11:00:19 +0000

News story about BRANDTHINK Malaysia published on Marketing-Interactive.com on May 6, 2011.

IWC Schaffhausen Clocks In With Brandthink

Malaysia – IWC Schaffhausen has appointed Brandthink Malaysia as its official public relations agency for the local market. The account was awarded without a pitch on 1 April, with the agency appointed on a retainer basis.

It is tasked with driving the brand’s communication strategies, aligning its brand messages and disseminating it across various media platforms via day-to-day PR duties and social engagement activities.

In addition to IWC, Brandthink also renewed its PR retainer with Roger Dubuis for another year, a brand the agency has worked on since 2006.

The luxury watch brand is the agency’s pioneer PR client, a result of a request made in 2008 by the brand’s distributor at the time to combine events, PR and advertising into a single agency.

“With Malaysians being increasingly affluent, there are opportunities IWC and Roger Dubuis can tap into that will grow their brands here in Malaysia. It’s going to be a pretty busy year,” said Jui Hong Teoh, managing director of Brandthink.

IWC is a luxury Swiss timepiece manufacturer and a brand under the Richemont Luxury group that carries names such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Piaget.

With work on the account well underway, the agency recently concluded a preview event for IWC’s latest Portofino collection with local media. It is understood that with the improving economy, the Swiss luxury brand intends to be more aggressive in the coming months with promoting its collections domestically.

“Affluent marketing has always been at the core of our agency. That’s how we started and that’s how I see us growing for the foreseeable future,” Teoh added.

Related posts:

Event: Graham-London with Mercedes GP F1 Party in Kuala Lumpur

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:43:16 +0000

In conjunction with the Formula One 2011 season, Anglo-Swiss watchmaker Graham-London hosted a private party on 6 April 2011 to launch its Mercedes GP Special Edition timepiece, the Mercedes GP Time Zone for the first time in Malaysia. BRANDTHINK Malaysia had the privilege of creating the entire experience for Graham-London and its guests.

Held at Bridge Bar on the 28th floor of G-Tower Hotel, the occasion was graced by Graham’s Brand Manager Mr. Pietro Tomajer, Graham’s International Marketing Director Mr. Olivier Degen and Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One team manager, Mr. Nick Fry. The event also saw the attendance of members of the media as well as Malaysia’s Youth and Sports Minister Y.B Dato’ Ahmad Shabbery Cheek, Bernie Chan, emcee of the event, Joey G, celebrity DJ of the night, Marion Counter and Ung Yiu Lin.

The launch continued with the introduction and welcome of a new friend to the Graham family, Mr. Azlan Iskandar, the national squash player who is currently ranked 10th in the world. “We are very glad and thank Mr. Azlan Iskandar for being a friend of us. His sports excellence, strong and edgy characteristics fit very well with Graham’s philosophy. “ Said Mr. Pietro Tomajer after presenting Azlan the brand very own famed Chronofighter. The introduction followed instantaneously by a Graham timepiece showcase of the Mercedes GP Special Edition Collection.

Guests were hyped with excitement through out the night with sought-after lucky draw prizes consisting F1 Grandstand tickets, F1 After-Race concert passes and a magnum sized GH Mumms champagne. To heighten the F1 excitement, there was also a specially created Graham car simulator for all racing enthusiasts at the party.

Resources

Press Release: Graham-London launches Mercedes GP Special Edition Watch

Facebook Album: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?fbid=10150212514453338&id=37431508337&aid=350169

Related posts:

Event: IWC SIHH 2011 Press Preview

PR & Publicity — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 02:00:50 +0000

7 March 2011, Kuala Lumpur: The Gold Class of the GSC Cinemas in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur was the setting for an IWC affair as the luxury watch company gives members of the media a preview of its SIHH 2011 collection.

BRANDTHINK Malaysia’s PR team was tasked with coordinating the event that gives a nod to the rare beauty and classic elegance of its watches. One of the highlights of the event was the showcase of the Portfofino collection. For more than a quarter of a century now, the Portofino watch family has held a firm place in the collection from IWC Schaffhausen. It is not only the entry-level model to the exclusive world of IWC watches, but also the epitome of a classical wristwatch for individuals with style. In the same way that the picturesque harbour town of Portofino stands for the dolce vita of the 1960s, Portofino watches are a combination of rare beauty and simple elegance.

Portofino attracts them all: musicians and millionaires, actors and aesthetes. These attraction makes the selection of GSC as the venue appropriate to the style and glamour projected. Guests present at the event get to have an up close personal look at the collection.

Related posts:

(Event) Gucci Timepieces Launch with Pacific Time

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:22:52 +0000

Pacific Time Pte Ltd, a leading distributor of luxury timepieces and watch accessories since 2003, is delighted to welcome Gucci Timepieces into its portfolio of fine watches. To that end, a launch event was held on 1 July 2010 in Malaysia to celebrate the new partnership between the luxury icons.

Ms Sharon Lim, Executive Director of Pacific Time said at the launch; “Even though Pacific Time is relatively young, we have grown our team and actively acquired distributorship of top brands that we feel the market is ready for. We have every confidence that an established and iconic brand like Gucci will do well and we are pleased with the choice and range that the brand offers. The timepieces are all Swiss made and the new designs reflect Gucci fashion trends; the classic styles are always successfully reinterpreted and the result is a really fresh overall collection. We are redefining Gucci Timepieces retailers to ensure the continuation of strong alliances, good brand awareness and relevant brand activities, all of which will guarantee the success of Gucci Timepieces in our region.”

The celebration saw the attendance of a few prominent VIPs, business partners of Pacific Time and Cortina Watch and members of the Malaysian press. BRANDTHINK Malaysia assisted Cortina Watch in handling the press event as well as media relations.

View the full press release here: http://newsfeed.brandthinkasia.com/2010/07/pacific-time-to-represent-gucci-timepieces-in-asia-pacific

Related posts:

(Event) Cortina Watch official launch at Suria KLCC

PR & Publicity — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:00:15 +0000

On the afternoon of 1st of April, Cortina Watch reached another significant milestone as it celebrated its fourth boutique opening in the iconic Suria KLCC in Malaysia with a big bang. The celebration saw the attendance of a few prominent VIPs, business partners of Cortina Watch and members of the Malaysian press.

The afternoon started with a warm welcome by emcee Elaine Daly who announced the arrival of the distinguished guest of honor, Dato’ Dr. Ong Hong Peng Secretary General, Ministry of Tourism Malaysia. Soon after, welcome speeches were given by Mr. Teh Soon Kheng General Manager of Cortina Watch Malaysia and Dato’ Dr. Ong Hong Peng.

The afternoon proceeded with a ribbon cutting ceremony which was performed by Dato’ Dr. Ong Hong Peng, Mr. Teh Soon Kheng and Mr. Jeremy Lim, Regional General Manager of Cortina Watch. Immediately after, guests were treated to an exhilarating performance by the exuberant Khuan Loke Association Lion Dance Group.

Guests continued to mingle with each other amongst an unbounded flow of champagne and canapés as they admired the featured timepieces in the boutique.

Regional General Manager of Cortina Watch, Jeremy Lim says, “We are thrilled to be amongst some of the finest international brands here at the iconic shopping arcade of Kuala Lumpur. Over the years, our focus has always been a one stop luxury timepiece provider and this is the experience we want to give to our valued customers”.

He added, “we are also indeed very honored to have Dato’ Dr. Ong Hong Peng grace our launch this afternoon. With our boutique being situated in the Golden Triangle we certainly hope that the expansion will contribute in driving the tourism industry in Malaysia”

—

BRANDTHINK Malaysia assisted Cortina Watch in handling the press event as well as media relations. The event saw the attendance of over 60 members of the media.

To view the Cortina Watch Launch Press Release, please visit BRANDTHINK NewsFeed at http://newsfeed.brandthinkasia.com

Related posts:

(Work) Roger Dubuis Press Conference, 6 Oct 2009

BRANDTHINK Malaysia — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:21:21 +0000

Kuala Lumpur, 6 Oct 2009 – Being one of the world’s leading luxury goods groups, Richemont always keeps its eyes open for identifying watch manufacturers that will provide a synergistic effect for its portfolio of first-class brands. The extraordinary craftsmanship and innovativeness of the watches and in-house movements of ROGER DUBUIS, Manufacture, draw the attention of Richemont.

A special press conference was held for Malaysian media to announce the latest developments from ROGER DUBUIS since it was acquired by Richemont Luxury. Click here for the press release.

The BRANDTHINK PR team was tasked with managing the press conference as well as assisting Richemont to communicate the rich developments that they’ve brought to Roger Dubuis. Roger Dubuis’ 2009 Collection was showcased during the press event.

For more information about Roger Dubuis, please contact BRANDTHINK at 603-22872255.

Related posts:

New Autumn/Winter 2009 Collections

PR & Publicity — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:26:40 +0000

Autumn/Winter is in the air, and BRANDTHINK NewsFeed just released a collection of press kits for features in publications in Malaysia.

Featuring the latest collections from renowned brands such as MAX&Co, Bally and Caran D’ache – the season’s collection will prove to be a hit in Malaysia for the trendy and fashionable.

MAX&Co – Concept for Autumn/Winter 2009/10 – Just Me. On stage & backstage. Eclecticism galore. Dedicated to all those young women who want to feel free to express their own personal style, playing a host of different roles on the grand stage and behind the scenes, depending on how they feel at the same time.

Bally Women’s A/W 2009 – ‘Looking at Helmut Newton’s iconic portraits of Charlotte Rampling and Bianca Jagger, I am constantly mesmerized by his ability to create luxury out of simplicty; taking this inspiration as a starting point I wanted to create a collection that captures the excitement, energy and creativity of urban life.’ – Brian Atwood

Bally Men’s A/W 2009 – ‘From head to toe I wanted this collection to capture the tangible energy and creativity of city life. Originally I was concentrating on interpreting a classic tailored look, when I saw an amazing shot of Steve McQueen working on his motorcycle; instantly the collection came together; clean, modern and simply urban.’ – Brian Atwood

Red Cliff by Caran d’Ache – Caran d’Ache, Maison de Haute Ecriture, brings out its new “Red Cliff” Limited Edition – first born of the Jewels of History collection – first crossover pen with a blockbuster ever made.

Dragon by Caran d’Ache – Caran d’Ache, Maison de Haute Ecriture, announces its new Limited Edition, “Dragon” created in collaboration with the Swiss jeweller, Edouard Jud. It is a unique collector’s piece and its decoration, based on the image of a dragon, is an enchanting combination of strength and delicacy.

To request a press kit, please call BRANDTHINK Malaysia at +60-3-2287225.

Related posts:

Cortina Watch – Penang Press Conference

PR & Publicity — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:11:43 +0000

PENANG, 4 June 2009 – Cortina Watch, the leading retailer and distributor of luxury timepieces in Asia is proud to announce the opening of its first multi-brand boutique in the island of Penang. The boutique is located at Gurney Plaza, touted as Penang’s premier lifestyle mall.

The press conference was officiated by YAB Lim Guan Eng, Chief Minister of Penang, Malaysia.

Click here for the press release of the opening.

Related posts: