
Labubu craze to drive up profit 350%, China's Pop Mart says
The company is best known for selling toys in "blind boxes" - a type of packaging that hides its contents until it is opened.Launched in 2019, Labubu dolls have helped the company become a major retailer, operating more than 2,000 vending machines and stores around the world.Pop Mart began selling its shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2020. The company's stock market valuation has jumped by almost 600% in the last year.Sales from outside mainland China contributed to nearly 40% of its total revenue in 2024.Many shops around the world had to pause sales of Labubu dolls due to overwhelming demand.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Geeky Gadgets
27 minutes ago
- Geeky Gadgets
It's Real: Apple's iPhone Fold Production is Underway!
Apple has officially entered the foldable smartphone market with the announcement of its first foldable iPhone, set to launch in 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 series. This highly anticipated device combines state-of-the-art hardware with advanced software, aiming to deliver a seamless blend of innovation and practicality. By partnering with Samsung for foldable OLED panels, Apple is positioning itself to compete in a growing market dominated by early adopters and tech enthusiasts. This move signals a pivotal moment in the evolution of mobile technology, as Apple seeks to set new standards for foldable devices. The video below from SaranByte gives us more information on the new iPhone Fold. Watch this video on YouTube. Samsung's Key Role in Display Production Samsung, a global leader in display technology, plays a crucial role in the production of Apple's foldable iPhone. The foldable OLED panels are being manufactured at Samsung's A3 factory in South Korea, with an initial production capacity of 15 million panels annually. Apple plans to produce between 6 and 8 million units for the 2026 launch, making sure a controlled rollout that meets demand while maintaining quality. Full-scale assembly is scheduled to begin in late 2025, giving Apple ample time to refine the device before its release. This collaboration underscores Apple's commitment to precision and reliability as it ventures into the foldable market. Innovative Design and Display Features The foldable iPhone introduces a book-style design that incorporates two displays: a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner screen. Both displays use LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) technology, which supports a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate for smoother visuals and improved power efficiency. To address common issues like visible creases, Apple is using ultra-thin glass with integrated touch sensors, enhancing both durability and usability. When folded, the device measures 9.5mm thick, slimming down to an impressive 4.5mm when unfolded. This design not only prioritizes aesthetics but also ensures a practical and user-friendly experience. Durability and Advanced Hardware Apple has placed a strong emphasis on durability, incorporating a titanium alloy chassis and a liquid metal hinge into the foldable iPhone's design. The hinge is engineered to evenly distribute pressure across the display, reducing stress and enhancing longevity. Additionally, it features heating elements to prevent mechanical issues in cold weather, making sure consistent performance in various environments. The device also includes a dual-cell battery setup, which improves power delivery and heat dissipation, making it well-suited to the demands of the foldable form factor. These innovations reflect Apple's dedication to creating a product that is both robust and reliable. Optimized Software for Productivity The foldable iPhone is expected to run a version of iPadOS, tailored specifically for the foldable format. This software will include features like split-screen functionality and advanced multitasking tools, allowing users to seamlessly switch between tasks. Whether for work or entertainment, the device is designed to maximize productivity and convenience. Powered by the A20 Pro chipset and a 16nm display driver, the foldable iPhone promises efficient performance and extended battery life, making sure a smooth user experience across a variety of applications. Camera and Biometric Integration Apple has integrated innovative camera and biometric features into the foldable iPhone. The device includes a hole-punch selfie camera on the outer display and an under-display camera on the inner screen, delivering high-quality imaging while maintaining a sleek design. For added security, Apple has replaced Face ID with Touch ID integrated into the side button, a practical choice for the foldable format. These features highlight Apple's ability to balance functionality with aesthetics, making sure that the device meets the needs of its users. Target Audience and Pricing Priced between $2,000 and $2,500, the foldable iPhone is positioned as a luxury product aimed at a discerning audience. It is designed for loyal Apple customers, early adopters, and professionals who value a device that combines the functionality of an iPhone and an iPad. The premium price reflects the advanced technology, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship that define the foldable iPhone. By targeting this niche market, Apple is reinforcing its reputation for delivering innovative, high-end products. Broader Implications for Foldable Technology Apple's entry into the foldable market has the potential to reshape the industry, paving the way for future innovations in foldable devices. The company's focus on addressing challenges such as software optimization and hardware reliability could lead to the development of foldable iPads and MacBooks, further expanding the foldable ecosystem. By setting new benchmarks for quality and functionality, Apple aims to refine the foldable category and establish itself as a leader in this emerging field. Overcoming Challenges and Meeting Expectations As Apple prepares for the 2026 launch of its foldable iPhone, the company faces several challenges. These include making sure the durability of the hinge mechanism, minimizing display creases, and optimizing iPadOS for the foldable format. By addressing these issues, Apple aims to deliver a product that aligns with its reputation for excellence. The foldable iPhone represents a bold step forward, blending innovative technology with practical design to meet the expectations of a demanding audience. Setting a New Standard in Mobile Technology The foldable iPhone is more than just a new product; it represents a significant evolution in smartphone design and functionality. With its innovative hardware, durable materials, and versatile software, the device is poised to redefine what users can expect from a mobile device. As Apple moves closer to its 2026 launch, the foldable iPhone stands as a testament to the company's commitment to innovation, setting a new standard for the industry and offering a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. Stay informed about the latest in Foldable iPhone production by exploring our other resources and articles. Source & Image Credit: SaranByte Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.


The Guardian
28 minutes ago
- The Guardian
Festivalgoers help drive Burberry to best sales performance in 18 months
Shoppers snapping up Burberry wellies, scarves and light jackets to wear at music festivals have helped the fashion brand to its best sales performance in 18 months despite lacklustre spending by tourists around the world. Sales of the luxury British brand fell 2% to £433m in the three months to the end of June, with a 1% decline at established stores, an improvement from the 6% fall in the previous quarter and the best performance since Christmas 2023. Shares in Burberry rose more than 4% on Friday morning on the better-than-expected performance, as Joshua Schulman, who was appointed a year ago, attempts a turnaround. Sales rose in Europe and the Americas but continued to fall in Asia, including its all-important Chinese market, which accounts for 30% of sales. Schulman, the former boss of the US fashion brand Coach, said: 'Its a tough macro [environment] out there and we are taking things step by step but we are optimistic about the quarters ahead and the business in general.' He said the company had appealed to 'elite VIP' customers with events linked to its partnership with King Charles's Highgrove estate and also to a younger luxury customer through festival-linked pop-ups featuring DJ sets located in shopping centres. A trial of dedicated 'scarf bars' within stores have also gone well and the company plans to install 200 in total. 'We are appealing to a much broader range of luxury consumers,' he said. Adam Cochrane, an analyst at Deutsche, said further growth was largely dependent on Burberry's ability to 'replicate the success' of its core products in other areas. The company said it was 'still in the early stages of our turnaround' with aims to continue simplifying the business and improving productivity and cashflow. It expects to achieve £80m of its planned £100m cost cuts this financial year, with the remainder next year, and has already reorganised the business under four regional heads. The company said in May it was cutting up to 1,700 jobs, including an entire shift at its Yorkshire raincoat factory, in an effort to make £60m in cost savings on top of a £40m savings programme announced in November. Sign up to Business Today Get set for the working day – we'll point you to all the business news and analysis you need every morning after newsletter promotion Schulman said Burberry's autumn ranges were being 'well received', although the external environment 'remains challenging. Over the past year, we have moved from stabilising the business to driving Burberry forward with confidence. 'The improvement in our first quarter comparable sales, strength in our core categories, and uptick in brand desirability gives us conviction in the path ahead,' he said. He called on the UK government to implement policies that would 'encourage tourism' as he said: 'International consumers are not shopping in the UK to the extent we would like due to the lack of a VAT refund scheme.' The scheme was phased out under the last government. 'All luxury brands and all retail brands would benefit from that,' he said.


Reuters
28 minutes ago
- Reuters
China urges Canada to drop steel import curbs and threatens countermeasures
BEIJING, July 18 (Reuters) - China's commerce ministry called on Canada to correct the "wrong practice" of restrictions on steel imports and said in a statement on Friday it would take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese firms. Ottawa this week introduced a tariff rate quota for countries with which it has free trade agreements, excluding the U.S., and imposed additional tariffs on steel imports from all countries containing steel melted and poured in China before the end of July.