Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, Lego started life in the wooden toy business. Derived from the Danish words 'leg' (play) and 'godt' (well), the company's play-well concept has turned Lego into one of the most recognised premium toy brands in the world, and one of Denmark's most iconic companies. An assault from the electronic gaming industry and evaporating play time in Lego's key age groups means that both Lego and its competitors are having a tough time on shop shelves. Monocle editor-in-chief Tyler Brûlé talks to Lego CEO, Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, at the company's innovation centre in Billund, Denmark.
Swiss retailer Coop has opened a supermarket just outside Zürich for the discerning shopper. Not only is the company promoting provenance and sustainability with its products, but it is also building stores that raise the…
Editor-in-chief Tyler Brûlé welcomes Gildo Zegna, CEO of supreme Italian menswear brand Ermenegildo Zegna, to the Monocle HQ in London to discuss the brand's centenary in 2010 and its longer-term future.
Poltrona Frau are one of Italy's most interesting groups, and certainly didn't disappoint at 2007's Salone del Mobile, with a massive stand and strong product range. Monocle editor-in-chief Tyler Brûlé talks to CEO Matteo…