Condé Nast luxury conference to debut in Italy

The first Condé Nast International Luxury Conference will debut in Florence in April 2015, it has been announced

and the inaugural seminar will be entitled ‘Hard Luxury’, exploring topics such the role of social media and how technology is reshaping the industry.

Taking place from April 22-23 in the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence, the conference will be curated and hosted by Suzy Menkes, international Vogue editor, and will feature a “diverse mix” of world-class speakers from both the creative and business sides of the luxury industry.

“’Hard Luxury’ refers to both the traditional description of high end watches and jewellery. And to the fact that it is tough out there in the global market place,” explained Menkes. “Luxury today is as much about high tech as high heels.”

Other topics to be discussed include the battle for the share of the luxury consumer’s wallet, the concept of modern and hard-edged design, connecting with younger luxury consumers and the issue of sustainability.

Jonathan Newhouse, chairman and chief executive of Condé Nast International, said: “Through magazines and websites like Vogue, Vanity Fair and GQ, Condé Nast is the luxury industry’s leading media partner.

“The Condé Nast International Luxury Conference will animate our brands in a new way, bringing together top luxury players in a stimulating event to provoke new thinking, forge connections and make things happen. It will be a ‘must’ rendezvous for luxury business.”