Entrepreneurialism
Page 51
Hair raising
The Bronner Brothers’ first hair show attracted 300 people. Now one of the largest producers of African American haircare, their legendary trade shows are part circus, part religious meeting.
Saint Charles
Natural cosmetics are popular in Austria, one of Europe’s top markets. A group of friends in Vienna with a passion for botany are championing local plants in their thriving collection of businesses.
The new deli
The centre of Germany’s second-largest city used to be known for its drugs and sex shops. Now, with ongoing gentrification, comes a retail concept that combines local organic produce with slick design.
Going for old
Though the Japanese love vintage, second-hand furniture auctions are new. Now, three entrepreneurs are bringing design classics to market in the country’s first modern and contemporary furniture auction.
Out of Africa
While Chinese firms flock to Africa, a quieter phenomenon sees a steady stream of African businessmen moving into China. An estimated 10,000 of them now live and work in Guangzhou.
Abel García López
In Paracho, Mexico’s guitar-making capital, some luthiers battle cheap imports. A few, like Abel García López, draw on generations of knowledge to produce concert-quality instruments for the world's top virtuosos.
Deli vision
Francesco Armandola’s Milan delicatessen opened in 1948. Now run by his son Giorgio, the shop continues to champion food with clear provenance, prioritising family-run firms above all else.
Natural selection
Swiss retailer Coop is opening supermarkets for discerning shoppers. The company is promoting provenance and sustainability with its products and building stores that raise the bar for green architecture. One man leads the way.
Swell guys
British microbrand Finisterre has introduced blue-sea thinking into the global surfwear market. It produces just six high-tech, low-impact garments and when the surf’s up, the team heads to the beach.
Off the rails
Victor La Fleur’s unique approach to sourcing brands has enabled him to build a clothing empire in his home town of Verbania – and to predict what is going to sell.
