China - December 09, 2024 "First in Shanghai" campaign boosts city's appeal as global retail hub (Voice_over) The First in Shanghai business initiative, launched in the Chinese city in April, has attracted more than 500 brands this year who've chosen the city to promote their products. The First in Shanghai business plan, now also the city's slogan, offers incentives and a professional services ecosystem to support local and international brands when they launch new products with an aim of turning the city into an international fashion and retail hub. One recent debut showcased 17 French brands who are part of the country's Comite Colbert, an association of 81 French luxury brands. The Fair of Chinese and French Craftsmanship brought together Chinese and French artisans to exchange creative and cultural ideas. (Sound_bite) Juliet, French shoemaker: "I could learn something a little bit of your culture, and we could try some of your techniques. That was super interesting, and we could apply some of these to our shoes as well." (Voice_over) Other recent launches include Coca-Cola's very first retail store. Decked out in the brand's classic bold lettering and red and white colors the store has more than 200 items including clothes, shoes, mugs and frisbees. [Restriction: No access Chinese mainland]