French luxury fashion house, Givenchy, is breaking new ground by appointing Japanese actress Nanao as their new ambassador in Japan.
This noteworthy move marks the first instance in the brand’s history where a Japanese actress has been chosen to represent it, underscoring the significance of Japan in Givenchy’s global strategy.
Nanao, a highly versatile personality in Japan’s entertainment industry, has been making strides in her career since 2009. With an impressive portfolio that includes her roles in the action comedy film “Hell’s Garden” and the intriguing TV show “Ninja ni Kekkon wa Muzukashii“, which narrates the complex tale of rival ninja clans, Nanao is no stranger to the limelight. Her powerful performances and unique style make her an attractive figurehead for Givenchy’s brand identity in Japan.
Givenchy’s creative director, Matthew M. Williams, expressed his admiration for Nanao, saying, “I really admire Nanao for her professional versatility as well as her personal energy and style. She will make an ideal Japan ambassador, and I look forward to working together“.
To commemorate this landmark appointment, Nanao collaborated with her close friend and renowned Singaporean photographer based in Japan, Leslie Kee, for a photographic series. Reflecting on her new role, Nanao said, “Givenchy is a timeless brand that elevates me as a woman and an actress. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with the house on my personal expressions of elegance, which I consider a very important, key theme whether I am in front of the camera or not”.
This latest development is a testament to Givenchy’s strategic focus on the Asian market. Japan continues to be a key market for luxury fashion, a fact that is underscored by the strong sales performance in the country. Parent company LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton reported a 34% growth in sales in Japan in the first quarter, with the country contributing to 7% of its global revenues of 21 billion euros during the period.
Earlier this year, Givenchy had named South Korean artist Taeyang, a member of the pop group Big Bang, as its brand ambassador, making him the first South Korean artist to take on such a role. This continued emphasis on Asia further establishes the region as an essential component in Givenchy’s global growth strategy.
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